Good Questions to Ask

How long has your organization been operating?

How many people do you send each year?

Does the organization have a policy on responsible tourism? Can you give some examples?

Does the organization work with a host country partner? Is the project one which the host country wants or needs?

How long has the project been running for? Is the organization in it for the long haul?

Who is the staff in country?

Are the full-time employees part of your organization or do they work for another organization?

During a typical day, how often will I be with a staff member of your organization?

Where exactly am I going and who will I be working for?

How do you make sure that the program is appropriate for me?

What kind of training is provided to help me prepare for my program?

Does the organization encourage volunteers to stay together or to mingle with locals?

How will my friends and family contact me if there is an emergency at home?

How will I contact my friends and family if I have an emergency during my program?

Will you provided me with email contacts of past participants?