What does HELP International do?

HELP International provides college students and young professionals the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in poverty alleviation; this is done by working with communities in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Uganda on a variety of community development projects. HELP International's unique approach to providing assistance involves volunteers collaborating with local leaders to design and implement meaningful programs and projects to assist individuals, families and communities.

To provide volunteers with a set of basic tools nessasary to assist these communities, they are trained in teaching basic business skills, teaching Square Foot Gardening (for home gardens), teaching English as a second language, orphanage care and therapy, community health principles, and other important skills and theories. These basic skills are then applied to projects\ in a variety of community settings, including literacy education, service at

schools and orphanages, and after-school activities that promote physical, emotional, and social health. Not only are the volunteers' projects valuable to the communities in which they serve, but their experiences change their lives and lay the groundwork for creating a new generation of social change agents with the experience, knowledge, and skills necessary to have a lasting effect on reducing poverty.

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How do volunteers finance their service?

HELP International requires all volunteers to contribute the program cost of $2750 plus airfare. Volunteers may plan or participate in various fundraising activities in the months preceding their volunteer service to assist with this cost. HELP International offers individualized mentoring and assistance with fundraising. With this help, many volunteers are able to raise a substantial portion of the required program cost. In the past, volunteers have coordinated their efforts and had great success in raising funds. If you are interested in fundraising or concerned about the program fee, contact the office for more information.

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What are the requirements for a volunteer to serve in country?

Those interested in volunteering with HELP International must submit a paper application which includes a desired country of service (El Salvador, Guatemala, or Uganda), basic biographical information, a letter of intent, and two letters of recommendation. Additionally, all applicants are interviewed by HELP International staff prior to acceptance into the program. Foreign language fluency is not required for any of our programs, but there are a limited number of non-fluent positions available on each team. After acceptance into a country program, volunteers are required to attend a series of training classes regarding their health and security while serving overseas as well as classes to prepare them to be effective development agents. Click here to apply.

How long do volunteers serve for?

HELP International volunteers can serve for six weeks up to four months. We send volunteers in three waves, each lasting six weeks.

Wave 1: May 6th - June 16th

Wave 2: June 10th -July 21st

Wave 3: July 15th - August 20th.

What does a typical day as a HELP International volunteer consist of?

Volunteers live together in the same building with their country directors. Hot evening meals are provided either through a restaurant or a local cook. Breakfast and lunch are eaten at the work site or at home. Although no day is exactly the same, volunteers spend their mornings and afternoons working on specific development projects in their area of choosing. Some evenings are spent working and preparing for projects, while others are reserved for fun events and activities which introduce volunteers to the local cultural traditions and practices.

The primary purpose of a HELP International volunteer's time is to serve the members of the local communities. However, while this is the main focus of each volunteer's time, there are ample opportunities for sight seeing and to have fun with other volunteers and local community members.

What are HELP International Country Directors?

Each team of volunteers is led by two Country Directors. Country Directors are hired in the fall of the previous year and receive extensive training on the organization's goals and requirements for volunteer teams in country. Country directors also serve as liaisons between HELP International and our partner organizations in Latin America and Africa. Country Directors work closely with the HELP International administrative staff in carrying out the goals and efforts of the organization. Due to the time and commitment involved, Country Directors are paid staff.

How can I become a HELP International Country Director?

HELP International Country Directors are hired in September/ October for the summer of the following year. Country Directors must be fluent in the native language of the country in which they will be working. Experience in Third World development, humanitarian service, microfinance, and international experience is preferred. For more information on being hired as a Country Director, click here for position details. Please contact the HELP International office at (801) 374-0556 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to request an application.

Is HELP a registered non-profit organization?

Yes, HELP International is a private, non-profit, 501(c)3 organization seeking projects that produce long-term and sustainable economic improvements for the poor, while providing a life-changing experience for our volunteers. We train volunteers to better understand the complexities involved in the fight against poverty such that they are able to promote and engage in sustainable solutions. All donations made to HELP International are tax-deductible.

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How can I receive academic credit for my volunteer experience?

Volunteers are welcome to seek academic credit for their internship with their college or university. We work with your individual department to ensure that your experience complies with the requirements of your program. For more information about internship credit contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

If I don't have time to work with HELP International, how can I support the cause?

HELP International also needs financial support. Our organization would not be possible without charitable people who are willing to share their sustenance with the impoverished. To make the process of donating as easy as possible, we have set up several methods for donating:

1) Mail a check to: 363 N. University Ave. #110 Provo, UT 84604

2) Donate over the phone: (801) 347-0556

3) Donate online though Network for Good by clicking here

Where can I learn more about getting involved with HELP International?

We would love to have you join us! If you have any questions or concerns regarding how you can get involved in the fight to end poverty, please contact us: