Renovation and Infrastructure

location
1 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Brilliant 4.7  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Highlights

  • People of all skills and experiences are welcome on this project
  • Join ongoing and existing projects with local tradesman or try renovation work within the community
  • Help to renovate and build community centres such as village schools, playgrounds & healthcare centres

Highlights

  • People of all skills and experiences are welcome on this project
  • Join ongoing and existing projects with local tradesman or try renovation work within the community
  • Help to renovate and build community centres such as village schools, playgrounds & healthcare centres
  • Get involved in laying bricks, doing carpentry, painting, laying tiles, and landscaping/gardening
  • Get stuck in and 'hands dirty' on this active project


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Support the locals in developing, constructing, and renovating communal infrastructures such as schools, healthcare centres, tribal halls, community centres.

    Nacpan Village predominantly houses local fishermen whose homes are constructed from bamboo, nipa, light materials, and wood. Sadly, many residents here struggle to make ends meet and lack the resources to improve their living standards or upgrade their homes.

    Additionally, communal infrastructures ...

    About the program

    Nacpan Village predominantly houses local fishermen whose homes are constructed from bamboo, nipa, light materials, and wood. Sadly, many residents here struggle to make ends meet and lack the resources to improve their living standards or upgrade their homes.

    Additionally, communal infrastructures in the village, including public spaces, have not been well-maintained or preserved, calling for reconstruction and restructuring.

    The main objective of this project is to support the locals in developing, constructing, and renovating communal infrastructures and institutions such as schools, healthcare centres, tribal halls, community centres, multi-purpose centres, and residential houses. These efforts aim to provide secure, safe, and comfortable spaces for various community activities.

    By participating in this project, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the community and work alongside local organized teams and other volunteers. This will offer you unique experiences and insights into the local culture, customs, language, and way of life. It will also allow you to connect with the kind, friendly, and hospitable locals of El Nido, Palawan, while collaborating with participants from all over the world to contribute to these construction efforts.

    Your Roles – Other Information
    On the other hand, you don’t need special qualifications or even to have experience in construction efforts, but do consider this job requires physical strength and endurance in hot weather conditions. Hence, Your main roles can or will include the following:

    • Assist in the construction and renovations of community infrastructures.
    • Help and assist in the construction or renovation of schools, classrooms or playgrounds.
    • Build and renovate communal facilities.
    • Paint school walls and other buildings.
    • Repair and work with wood and furniture.
    • Digging and assembling construction Materials.
    • Painting and renovating cultural sites such as churches, healthcare centres and so on.
    • Help in constructing and renovating local houses of residents.
    • Finally, during the construction activities, please be careful and mindful when using construction equipment and material, ask assistance from your local coordinators for heavy tasks and of course to enjoy and make the most of your stay and make memorable learning experiences.

    Location

    El Nido, located in the province of Palawan, is renowned as one of the world’s top tourist destinations due to its mesmerising lagoons, white sand beaches, rocky islets, towering limestone cliffs, and diverse marine life. Despite its popularity among tourists, there are overlooked communities living in impoverished conditions, particularly Nacpan Village, situated 17 kilometers north of El Nido town.

    Project Tasks

    • Improve the quality of life for underprivileged residents around the area.
    • Assist the locals on daily construction and renovation tasks as an organized team.
    • Connect and create local multicultural exchange experiences both locals and volunteers can benefit from.
    • Gain practical experience in constructing and renovating works.


    Typical day

    Monday
    Breakfast
    Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice, handling of documents & Signing up of relevant documents.
    Filipino Do’s and Don’ts, Dress Codes, Filipino Culture Lessons and Basic Filipino Language Lessons.
    Tour Around Town’s centre and Local ...

    Typical day

    Monday
    Breakfast
    Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice, handling of documents & Signing up of relevant documents.
    Filipino Do’s and Don’ts, Dress Codes, Filipino Culture Lessons and Basic Filipino Language Lessons.
    Tour Around Town’s centre and Local Area, and arrange a sim-card if necessary.
    Lunch
    Project Meetings, Observation and Preparations with assigned Local Program Coordinators.
    Welcome Dinner

    Tuesday to Friday
    Breakfast
    Engage in Construction and renovation efforts.
    Lunch
    Engage in Construction and renovation efforts.
    Dinner

    Note: Program will have a minimum of four (4) hours a day.

    ***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local circumstances***

    *Schedule possible to change due to the project and community needs at the time. Volunteer flexibility and adaptability is important to a positive volunteering experience. 



    Free-time activities

    Beaches of Boracay

    This small island is known for its outstanding natural beauty, and pristine white sand beaches. White beach stretches for 4km and is a popular place to visit. There are plenty of cafes and nightlife, including fire throwers and live music at the bars.

    Bohol Chocolate Hills

    Take a ...

    Free-time activities

    Beaches of Boracay

    This small island is known for its outstanding natural beauty, and pristine white sand beaches. White beach stretches for 4km and is a popular place to visit. There are plenty of cafes and nightlife, including fire throwers and live music at the bars.

    Bohol Chocolate Hills

    Take a visit to Bohol island, around an hour from Cebu, and check out the 1200 hills of all shapes and sizes. This stunning natural formation is quite a sight. You can hike or take an ATV ride up the hills.

    Diving

    The Philippines have many amazing dive spots, and some of the most pristine water in the world! With plenty of fish, coral reef and even whale sharks, this is a divers heaven. You can even learn to dive here.

    Twin Lagoon on Coron Island

    You may have seen images of this spectacular beauty spot online- and it doesn’t disappoint! As well as some incredible diving, you can also explore some stunning viewpoints, secluded beaches, or go on a boat tour around these turquoise blue waters.  

    Ziplining

    For those who love adventurous activities, why not try ziplining?! Check out the stunning one on El Nido, with beautiful views over the beach. It’s 750 metres and will give you that adrenaline kick for sure.

    Kayaking

    There are plenty of gorgeous places to kayak in the Philippines, and it’s secret lagoons are some of the best spots. Paddle your way through the stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters.

    Vigan Town

    This very pretty town has a Hispanic heritage that is evident as you walk through the artsy cobbled streets. Vigan town is on the island of Luzon and is a great weekend trip, with museums, cafes, workshops and quirky sights. For photographers, you can get some pretty shots at dawn, when the town is empty.

    Underground River, Palawan

    Puerto Princesa is a beautiful river that goes underground, through impressive limestone caves. Book a boat tour to take you through the caves.

    Manila

    The capital city, Manila is a hustling and bustling place, with plenty of culture. Be sure to check out the museums, art galleries, old buildings, cafes and bars.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Involvement Volunteers IVI

    • Accommodation
    • 3 meals p/day weekdays / 2 meals p/day weekends
    • Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
    • Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
    • 1 day orientation
    • Daily transportation to project
    • In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
    • Fundraising support
    • University course credits (where applicable)
    • Certificate of Completion

    Airport Pickup at El Nido

    Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees.

    You have 2 options for arrival:

    1st option: A free airport pickup is included when arriving to El Nido Airport (Lio). You must arrive between 08:00 – 17:00 on Sunday. The fastest way to go to El Nido is to fly directly to Lio Airport from Manila. Currently, AirSwift is the only airline that services the Manila to El Nido route. AirSwift operates up to four direct flights per day from Manila.The travel time is 1 hour & 30 minutes.

    2nd option: A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS). You must arrive between 08:00 – 15:00 on Sunday. Upon pick up at the airport, you will then transfer to the bus station on your way to El Nido or to the accommodation. The trip takes around 6 to 7 hours from the city of Puerto Princesa to El Nido.

    If arriving outside the pickup times you can book a private transfer and any extra nights accommodation for an additional charge.

    Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).

    From the El Nido airport the Nacpan Village accommodation, it takes 20 mins by road. To the Barangay Buena Suerte accommodation it takes 30 mins by road.

    From Puerto Princesa International Airport, to both accommodation centres, it will take approx 6-7 hours by road.  

    Accommodation

    The volunteer centre provides rooms shared with 4 people per room, with the houses complete with either a fan or air con, T.V, kitchen, wifi (this can be limited sometimes), mosquito protection, bed linen, cold showers and lockable rooms. Limited laundry facilities, so expect to wash your clothes by hand, unless you’d like to use the laundry service for a small fee.

    We have  two accommodation houses. The first is located in the small Village of Nacpan, El Nido, Palawan, which is about 20 mins to town. It’s close to the beach where you can relax, chill and swim on the beach during your spare time. You can also get to your placement via walking or riding a tricycle for nearby Barangays or other areas. This accommodation is mostly for those doing the construction, kindergarten and teaching programs.

    The Second Accommodation is located at Barangay Buena Suerte, located at the very heart of the El nido Town. This accommodation is for those doing the El Nido culture week and Beach week programs. You can roam around the town’ centre during your spare time. El Nido town is a 5 hour drive from the City of Puerto Princesa.

    *Private rooms may be available for a small upgrade, please ask us in advance.

    *Accommodation may be in our local centre or in close proximity, depending on availability and time of year.



    Food & Beverages

    3 meals per day are provided each day (2 on weekends). Food will be mainly of typical local and western dishes. We serve rice but not everyday. We also serve pasta, noodles, sea foods, most of the time chicken and pork, vegetables and fruits. For breakfast, we may have eggs, sausages, oatmeal, bread, pancakes, coffee and tea. However, meals will also be served based on your dietary requirements, but you need to inform us in advance.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is El Nido (ENI) in El Nido. We assist you to find cheap flights to Philippines. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Philippines provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Philippines you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Philippines. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Program starts every Monday. Arrivals on Sat/ Sun. If arriving on Sat, an extra night is charged.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    1 week (min. stay) 757€
    2 weeks 902€
    3 weeks 1,181€
    4 weeks 1,401€
    8 weeks 2,328€
    12 weeks (max. stay) 3,321€
    Average fees 517€/week

    Program fees

    517€ per week 1 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    1 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with Involvement Volunteers IVI during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    Involvement Volunteers IVI

    Brilliant 4.7 rating (204 reviews)

    Non-profit - founded in 1989

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Excellent response rate

    Coordinated by

    Lauren

    Spoken languages: English

    About the project

    IVI are a non profit org with 28 years experience providing responsible volunteer placements in 15 countries worldwide. We help you connect with inspiring opportunities

    Meet your organization

    Involvement Volunteers International delivers positive social change to developing communities and vulnerable populations through local, national & international volunteering.  Our projects empower the skilled & un-skilled to catalyse the efforts of local partners in creating a better world.


    WHO WE ARE

    Founded in 1989, IVI is a pioneer of overseas volunteering.  Back when there was no internet and phones were a luxury in many parts of the world, we traveled to developing countries in search of credible NGO's in need of manpower and global volunteer resources.  Some of the many relationships we forged are utilized to this day. 

    We are passionate about volunteering and giving back to society and in particular developing communities which are less fortunate than us.  In this way, we combine travelling with volunteering to help people make a positive impact overseas.

    SOCIAL EXPERIENCES
    All of IVI’s projects have a strong social element at the core.  With more manpower (& womanpower!) we can truly catalyse the efforts of our local partners.  This means you're sure to meet loads of like-minded people from all parts of the world.   This type of experience truly broadens your understanding of the world and yourself, opening your heart to new enlightened ways of thinking .   With your new found travel companions, you'll have plenty of opportunity to explore and have fun!  

    Our projects create a unique platform to experience the true heart and soul of a destination rather than simply the tourist areas.   We'll involve you in meaningful & responsible volunteer work that really benefits the local communities.

    AFFORDABLE VOLUNTEER TRAVEL
    As a non profit org, we are not motivated by shareholder profits.  Our fee structure is fully transparent to ensure volunteers hard earned money is going directly to the areas where it is most needed.  It is vitally important to us that the presence of volunteers has a positive and sustainable impact on the local communities we work with.   

    We charge a one off US$275 application fee per volunteer to cover the running of IVI including administration overheads, project inspection costs, marketing, and salaries.

    The program fee starts at $150 p/week and goes straight to the in country management to cover arrival airport transfers, on the ground coordination, orientation, accommodation, meals, in country 24/7 project support, project development, donations and related administration costs.   

    In comparison to many of our competitors, our programs are incredible value.

    SAFETY & RESPONSIBLE PROGRAMS
    With approx 80-90% of our volunteers being single young female travelers, volunteer safety is of the utmost importance.  All of our projects include a dedicated 24/7 in-country management support contact as well as a dedicated placement manager pre/post journey.  This ensures you will be cared for every step of the way.    The local teams are highly experienced and qualified to manage emergency situations.

    All IVI projects have been personally inspected to ensure the standards meet necessary guidelines for quality and safety.  In addition, we monitor and maintain communication with local embassies to oversee potential issues in order to notify volunteers and their families accordingly.   

    Our Australian team are available 24/7 and only a phone call away.

    Our responsibility also extends to the local people which is why volunteers working in childcare related fields must provide a criminal background check before they travel.   Our ultimate goal is the long term development of the communities we work with, hence we work closely with our local partners to ensure that projects are needs driven and sustainable. 

    SUPPORT

    From your very first inquiry, right through to your welcome home, you'll have the same dedicated volunteer manager at every stage.  We are experts in the field and will provide you in depth insights about what to expect and how to prepare to ensure you have an amazing experience overseas.  Every project includes a detailed welcome pack which provides all aspects needed such as in country contacts, what to pack, cultural values, basic language guides and much much more.   

    On arrival at your destination, you'll be greeted by one of our in-country team and in many cases 1 week orientation is provided to help ease you into the way of life and ensure you're equipped with the right customs to ensure a successful volunteer abroad experience.  

    FUN!
    Volunteering abroad is quite possibly the most rewarding experience you will have in your life!   We know this not only through our own experiences, but through the testimonies from thousands of volunteers we have successfully placed worldwide over 27+ years in operation.  Volunteering overseas is not only rewarding.   It's fun!   You're meeting new people, you're seeing new sights, and you're expanding your understanding of yourself and the world.  You're experiencing something real and life changing in many ways...  

    GET INVOLVED WITH IVI TODAY!

    204 reviews · rating4.7

    What a fantastic trip. Getting the opportunity to live in a village for a week was so incredibly special, and all of our hosts quickly became like family. The work itself was challenging at times but very rewarding, and I felt like we were making a difference within the communities that we worked ...
    The team of us who were placed in Moala were instantly taken in by the family we were living and were made to feel part of the family. I am grateful for this experience, for the people I met and for the wonderful people who cared for us throughout the 2 weeks. This trip has inspired me to pursue ...
    What an incredible experience to be able to live in amongst the island community, fully immersed in village life. I really really enjoyed my stay and it was so amazing to explore the island in my free time. In the classroom, it was mostly helping kids one on one with the work assigned by the ...
    I am so blessed to have been lead by amazing dietician and naturopathic professionals who have inspired what I hope to be in this field one day. Words and pictures could never capture how life changing this experience was, and what beautiful souls these people hold. Pictures also don’t capture how ...
    There were so many highlights to this trip! However the one that stood out the most was living in Moala village for one week. The team of us who were placed in Moala were instantly taken in by the family we were living and were made to feel part of the family. The people we visited in Moala, Yako ...
    hannah rupp rating5

    2024 at Primary Teaching Support

    I had such a great time in Zanzibar. The accommodation is really good, it’s clean, you have a very sweet balcony and the bedrooms are good. Also the roommates and coordinators are were really nice 🥰 I really enjoyed my time at the school and I loved to work with the kids 🥰 I made so many ...

    Location


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    Contact Lauren
      Excellent response rate
    English

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