I came to Vietnam completely by myself and volunteering really gave me a great community of people to be with, structure to my days, and valuable experience in teaching (which I want to go into) For someone hesitant, I promise it will be what you hope it to be. I still talk to my roommates from my stay now, months after.
Volunteer in Vietnam
Explore International Volunteer HQ’s fascinating Vietnam volunteer abroad program. Choose from a wide range of trusted Vietnam volunteer projects, including Teaching English, Medical, Special Needs Care, Childcare and Food Outreach. Volunteer work in Vietnam is based throughout a variety of communities in and around the city of Ho Chi Minh. With affordable Program Fees and top rated volunteer projects trusted by over 157,000 travelers, IVHQ is the best volunteer organization in Vietnam.
Highlights:
- 5 meaningful project options available year-round
- Program Fees from $410 for 1 week
- Includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals, and 24/7 in-country support
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Accommodation in a volunteer dormitory in Ho Chi Minh City
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Optional Cultural Immersion Culture Week available as an add-on
Key information
Volunteer opportunities in Vietnam
Increases access to education
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $410
- Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in kindergartens in Ho Chi Minh City
- Volunteers aged 16+ and families
Help with all aspects of running a childcare center, with a specific focus on assisting with English lessons for early learners.
Improves health & wellbeing
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $410
- Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in soup kitchens
- Volunteers aged 16+ and families
Assist soup kitchens to serve up to 800 meals to low income workers, students, the elderly and other locals who couldn’t otherwise afford a suitable daily lunch.
Improves health & wellbeing
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $610
- Duration: 2 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in a hospital
- Volunteers aged 18+
Shadow and assist local doctors and nurses in a Vietnamese hospital, helping with basic tasks and triage.
Improves health & wellbeing
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $410
- Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in hospitals and clinics
- Volunteers aged 16+ and families
Support hospitals and clinics to care for those with special needs, including those affected by Agent Orange. You can assist with physical therapy, education and sensory tasks.
Increases access to education
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $410
- Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in a local college
- Volunteers aged 16+ and families
Help to teach English in a local college to students aged between 16-25, enhancing their job prospects and opportunities for further study.
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
LG
Lillian Guelcher
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MO
Martha Oseguera
The program not only allowed me to learn about techniques related to my field, but also about the culture, and how, despite being on the other side of the world, we can feel connected for different reasons. I love the warmth with which we were welcomed and the intensity of the opportunities that opened my eyes to things I had never imagined.
...
JH
Jonathan Hausman
I continue to do these programs to remind myself of who I am and how I can grow. If that's what you want to do, you should certainly consider this program. Yet - wherever you are in your life you'll want to be in a safe place with people that care about you while you care for the special needs kids. And that's what you'll get in this program. You'll likely find that the kids will teach you more than you'll ever teach them if you open your heart to learn. If you're hesitant, remember that it's okay to be uncomfortable. But don't worry too much about pushing yourself out of your personal "comfort zone". Instead, remind yourself that you're going to find a BRAND NEW "comfort zone" once you adjust. You just have to give yourself permission to find that new comfortable place.
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LP
Lucía Pascual García-Gamón
It was an incredible experience for me. Discovering the culture of Vietnam has been wonderful, meeting so many people and making friends from many different parts of the world. Also, treating with very nice local people and a great local team, and being able to enjoy time in kindergarden with the children was very fulfilling and I am very grateful for this amazing experience. I highly recommend.
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To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Popular add-ons & experiences in Vietnam
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Vietnam program.
Cu Chi Tunnel
Dive into a half-day exploration of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic historical site – the Cu Chi Tunnels, a must-see attraction.
$157
Top rated
Food Tour
A Vietnam Food Tour for the food lovers! Eat like a Vietnamese for a night! We will take you to the most popular street stalls and hidden alleyways in the city, showing you where the locals truly love to eat! So, save your appetite, delight your palate, and let us fill your tummy with delicious and authentic Vietnamese food!
$67
New
North Vietnam Snapshot - 7 day tour
Get ready for an epic 7-day tour through North Vietnam. You will taste mouth-watering street food in Hanoi, cruise and kayak through Ha Long Bay, and trek through stunning rice terraces in Sa Pa.
$995
Cu Chi Tunnel
Dive into a half-day exploration of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic historical site – the Cu Chi Tunnels, a must-see attraction.
$157
Top rated
Food Tour
A Vietnam Food Tour for the food lovers! Eat like a Vietnamese for a night! We will take you to the most popular street stalls and hidden alleyways in the city, showing you where the locals truly love to eat! So, save your appetite, delight your palate, and let us fill your tummy with delicious and authentic Vietnamese food!
$67
New
North Vietnam Snapshot - 7 day tour
Get ready for an epic 7-day tour through North Vietnam. You will taste mouth-watering street food in Hanoi, cruise and kayak through Ha Long Bay, and trek through stunning rice terraces in Sa Pa.
$995
Check what's required to visit Vietnam
Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important you monitor this right up until you depart for your trip.
