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.
Choose a Grown-up Special
1-3 of 4 Projects
Childcare Volunteering in Nepal for Volunteers over 50
See this project- Price: £1,480 for 2 weeks
- Extra Weeks: £330
- Start Date: Throughout the year
- Minimum Duration: 2 weeks
- Age: 50 or over
Khmer Cultural Project in Cambodia for Volunteers over 50
See this project- Price: £1,755 for 2 weeks
- Extra Weeks: £355
- Start Date: Throughout the year
- Minimum Duration: 2 weeks
- Age: 50 or over
Conservation and Community Work in Ecuador for Volunteers over 50
See this project- Price: £2,180 for 2 weeks
- Extra Weeks: £430
- Start Date: Throughout the year
- Minimum Duration: 2 weeks
- Age: 50 or over
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.
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Request InfoWhat 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.
Is a volunteering holiday for over 50s right for me?
Our Grown-up Specials are tailor-made for older adventurers (who are still young at heart) — just like you!
They offer unique experiences to make a difference in the world. Whether you're seeking a fulfilling change of pace or want to utilise your lifetime of skills, these projects offer camaraderie and discovery alongside like-minded individuals.
Choose from a diverse array of projects where you can share your expertise or embark on a whole new learning experience. From wildlife conservation to educational initiatives, connect with communities across the globe and leave a lasting impact.
Relax and let us take care of the details. Our meticulously planned volunteer holidays for over-50s include fixed dates, organised itineraries, and continuous support from dedicated Projects Abroad staff. Focus fully on your mission and enjoy the journey without the worry.
Take a look at the story of Joan and Carolyn. Two older volunteers who became fast friends, and reunited recently after multiple trips with Projects Abroad.
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.
Not quite what you're looking for?
Take a look at the following pages where you'll find other types of trips:
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