The Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems, is under severe threat from climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Citizens of the Reef focuses on the conservation of the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most critical ecosystems. Through the Great Reef Census, the organization engages volunteers and scientists to gather vital data on reef health and aid in the protection and regeneration of key reef areas.

Participants will embark on sea-based expeditions to survey and collect data on the health of various reefs. Working alongside marine scientists, you’ll explore remote and historically significant reefs, contribute to scientific research, and gain hands-on experience in marine biology.

• Participate in the Great Reef Census by snorkeling and helping identify key source reefs and refugia.
• Assist marine scientists in gathering data that will contribute to reef conservation efforts.
• Explore pristine reef sites and learn marine biology field techniques.

Hunger and poverty remain widespread in rural areas across the globe, where small-scale farmers struggle to make a living due to lack of resources, education, and access to markets. Many families in these regions live on less than $2 a day, and without sustainable farming practices, their land becomes less productive over time, further worsening their situation. Heifer International tackles these issues by providing livestock, agricultural training, and community-based support to farmers. Through their model of "passing on the gift," families who receive assistance share their knowledge and resources with others, creating a ripple effect that lifts entire communities out of poverty and hunger.

Volunteers will visit rural communities to assist local farmers with sustainable agricultural practices and engage in hands-on projects like harvesting and tending to livestock. Beyond volunteering, you’ll also participate in educational sessions with Heifer staff and experience the positive impact of Heifer’s development model.

• Participate in farming activities such as harvesting, tending livestock, or working with bees.
• Engage with local farmers and learn about Heifer’s sustainable development practices.
• Attend educational sessions led by Heifer staff and witness the impact of their projects firsthand.

Around 2.2 billion people lack access to safely managed drinking water, and more than half of the world’s population live without proper sanitation. The lack of clean water leads to preventable diseases, poor health, and restricted economic opportunities, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. Wine to Water is dedicated to addressing this global crisis by developing sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solutions. Their work not only provides immediate access to clean water but also empowers communities to manage and maintain these solutions, ensuring long-term impact and resilience against future water shortages.

Participants will engage in hands-on projects that provide access to clean water to communities, working alongside with local leaders and engineers. You’ll contribute to building water systems or making ceramic water filters, and distribute needed resources, while gaining a deeper understanding of the global water crisis.

• Help build wells, mold ceramic filters, and distribute water resources in underserved communities.
• Work with local leaders and Wine to Water staff to understand the intersection of clean water, health, and development.
• Participate in educational sessions about global leadership and community empowerment.