FAQs (Volunteer Programs)

What is HOPE worldwide Volunteer Corps?

HVC is a faith-based volunteer program focusing on leadership training and community service throughout the world. It brings people from all different backgrounds together to work with HOPE worldwide programs across the globe, serving the world’s poor.

Who is eligible?

Participants are selected based on their application, recommendations and heart to serve. All North American trips (US/Canada/Mexico) are open to participants aged 15 and older. Trips outside of North America are open to non-US participants aged 15 and over (with a few exceptions). US participants must turn 18 within three months of the trip, or, if between the ages of 15 and 18, be accompanied by a chaperone who is over the age of 21. Parents can take children on the trips. The age of the children allowed will depend on the particular program (usually preteen and over; some trips can take slightly younger children).

For the first time this year, some of the international trips outside of North America (Germany, Kenya, Zambia, Philippines, Nepal, Romania) will be open to US participants aged 17 and over (turning 17 within three months of the trip) without a chaperone.

The programs are open to both disciples and non-disciples. That being said, each participant must hold to the standards and integrity of the program.

How do I apply?

Apply online using the application link in the navigation bar at hopeww.org. Applications are accepted on a rolling admissions basis.

In addition to completing your online application, you will also need to pay a $400 non-refundable deposit, and make sure the people you nominate as your references send your recommendations in. Only then can we process your application and accept you to the program.

I applied. Now what?

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. We review your application once you have filled in the on-line form, paid your $400 deposit, and we have received your recommendations. If you are accepted to the program, we will let you know as soon as we are able. Typically, applications are reviewed weekly. You will also receive an acceptance e-mail with information about the program and what you need to do from that point.

Who can write my recommendations?

Student applicants require two recommendations and non-students require three recommendations. The link to the recommendation form will be sent automatically to the people you choose on your application. People submitting recommendations for you should be people who can speak to your character. For ICOC applicants, at least one recommendation should come from ministry staff (including church leaders, church staff, ministry leaders). In case of a congregation with no full-time staff, a lay leader of good standing, or a HOPE worldwide Chapter leader can do so. Under no circumstances should a family member fill in the recommendation.

References will receive a confirmation email after their recommendation has been properly submitted. Applicants will also receive an email informing them that a recommendation has been submitted on their behalf.

We require a third recommendation for any applicant who is NOT a student (if you are not enrolled in high school or university) and is planning to serve in a program with children. More details are available on the application.

What about payment?

When you fill in your application form you will be directed to the payment page. You need to pay a $400 deposit in order for us to process your application. Once accepted to the program, that deposit is non-refundable. If you are not accepted, the deposit will be returned to you. Bear in mind that as applications come in, applicants who pay their deposit and send in their recommendations in a timely manner will be accepted faster and have a better chance of being on their first choice program.

The rest of your fee needs to be paid by the participant, in one lump sum. As our numbers have grown, we do not have the administrative resources to handle partial payments. We expect each participant to collect their fee and pay it in in one payment when they are ready to do so (before the payment deadline). No participant will be allowed to go on program if their fee is not paid in full.

What does the participation fee cover? 

Our typical two-week program has the following breakdown: 1/4 of the fee covers the cost of accommodation, 1/4 covers meals and transportation, 1/4 covers the cost of service and recreational activities, and 1/4 goes to operational costs (processing fees, background checks, risk management, application process, travel insurance coverage, fund transfer charges, site leaders' cost, etc). For a two-week program where everything is covered from the time you land until the time you leave, we believe it is an incredible bargain.