An older volunteer reads to a child as part of his childcare volunteer work overseas

Volunteer Abroad for over 50s

Tailor-made trips for volunteers over 50 who want to make a difference

Our Grown-up Specials are designed for volunteers aged 50 and over. We see a huge number of volunteers who want a career break or a meaningful way to spend their retirement. These projects help you do that alongside volunteers with the same priorities.

There is a wide range of projects you can do in this way, whether you want to share your specialist skills or learn new things. You’ll meet people from around the world who want to make a positive impact on a community, just like you.

You’ll get to know other volunteers through sociable activities and local trips. Our working holidays abroad for over 50s have fixed start and end dates, as well as itineraries, so you don’t have the hassle of organising your trip from scratch. You’ll live with a host family to share their way of life and immerse yourself in the local community.

Our volunteering holidays for over 50s are supported by Projects Abroad staff who help you get the most out of your trip. This level of support takes the stress out of living abroad, so you can focus on what matters to you.

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

We’d be happy to talk about creating a custom project for you. Most of our staff have been volunteers themselves, so they’re well placed to answer your questions, big or small.

+353 1 571 5080

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to start planning your project

What are Grown-up Specials?

Our Grown-up Specials are set trips made specifically for volunteers over the age of 50. You’ll follow a daily schedule, live with a host family and volunteer alongside like-minded people.

These projects are designed to help you volunteer abroad in a safe, well supported way. Our in-country Projects Abroad staff are available 24/7 if you need them.

Many of our regular projects can be arranged as a Grown-up Special, so you can choose from a wide range of projects and destinations. All our projects are sustainable, targeted and focused on helping the local community. You can be assured you’re taking part in an ethical project that has lasting impact.

Older Projects Abroad volunteers complete volunteer building work abroad for over 60s.

Is a volunteering holiday for over 50s right for me?

Grown-up Specials are right for anyone over 50 who wants to volunteer alongside like-minded people. You’ll get all the benefits of a volunteering abroad experience, with the confidence and security of well-structured trip. These projects are also suitable for people looking for volunteer work abroad for over 60s.

These projects suit those planning to spend a career break, holiday time or retirement helping people in disadvantaged communities. It’s a great way to meet new people and learn new skills. Stepping out of your day-to-day routine is a hugely rewarding experience, which is why so many of our volunteers come back to us after their first project.

If you’re interested in our Grown-up Specials, but would like to volunteer alongside people of all ages, you may be interested in our Flexi Trips. Read our full list of trip types here.

What will I gain from doing voluntary work abroad for over 50s?

All our trips are designed to help you make the most of your time abroad and your volunteer project. Previous volunteers from Grown-up Specials talk about:

Safety and security of travelling with a trusted organisation with decades of experience.
Benefits of working with in-country staff who know the local community well.
Developing confidence, skills, and friendships.
Spending retirement, career breaks, or holiday in a meaningful way.
Learning about other cultures, less developed countries, and the challenges they face.