Special Interest Group Programs
Social group travel is a wonderful way for people with the same interests to explore the world, connect with local communities, and take part in meaningful international projects.
Special Interest Group Programs
If you’re part of a photography society, local sports team, women’s club, scout troop, or a circle of friends, your group can explore the world while contributing to meaningful, community-led projects. Special interest group programs connect passions and skills with local initiatives, creating experiences that are as rewarding for the group as they are for the communities. At its heart, the purpose of a special interest group is to bring people together around shared interests, foster connection, and create opportunities to learn and collaborate across cultures.
Volunteering as a group is rewarding from the moment you start planning. We take care of all logistics, from travel arrangements to in-country support, so you can focus on building excitement and preparing for your journey. Once on the ground, your group will have dedicated support 24/7, ensuring a safe, smooth, and engaging experience for everyone.
Many special interest group tours lead to lasting connections with the communities visited. Some groups continue to support their hosts through fundraising, sending resources, or even returning year after year. These ongoing relationships are key to sustaining grassroots initiatives and helping them thrive.
Most of our projects can be tailored to your group’s interests and goals. We work closely with you to create a customized itinerary that reflects your purpose, fits your group size, and offers authentic cultural engagement. If you are ready to turn your group’s passion into a meaningful journey, our team can guide you to the opportunities that are right for you.
Why Trust Kaya With Your Special Interest Group Program
We create journeys that bring a group of people with same interest together in ways that strengthen both their connections and the communities they visit. Every group program is shaped by our core mission: to support locally led initiatives while fostering deeper cultural understanding. With thoughtful planning, a wealth of local knowledge, and carefully chosen destinations, we design experiences that are as unique as your group’s purpose. We believe in shared success, where your group and our partners on the ground learn, grow, and benefit together.
Responsible Approach
Responsibility is at the heart of everything we do. From program selection to health considerations to budget planning, if it is not responsible, we do not do it. By choosing Kaya, you can be confident that your journey will bring genuine value to your group and to the communities you engage with.
Active Cultural Engagement
We combine your group’s focus, whether it’s skill sharing, professional development, creative collaboration, or cultural exploration, with meaningful immersion in local life. Every program is designed to encourage genuine cross-cultural exchange so that both your group and our community partners benefit from the experience.
Personalised Advising
No two special interest groups are alike. We tailor each itinerary to your goals and interests and stay in close communication throughout the planning process, making sure every detail reflects your vision.
Safety and Liability
Your group’s safety is our top priority. We follow guidance from the US State Department, local authorities, the Centers for Disease Control, the World Health Organization, and your own group’s requirements. All programs are covered by $5 million in liability insurance for added peace of mind.
On-Site Program Coordinator
Every special interest group is supported by an On-Site Program Coordinator (OPC) from start to finish. Our OPCs are experienced, well-trained, and ready to assist with both day-to-day logistics and unexpected situations.
Passionate Team
Our team has been shaped by cultural exchange in countless ways, and that passion fuels every program we design. We bring the same care and enthusiasm to your journey as we would to our own.
“I went there to teach, but in the end, I was the one who learned something. I used to see service as a duty. A duty to help those less fortunate than I was. This experience taught me humility – a humbleness that no matter how old you are, no matter what kind of education you’ve received, you can always learn something from someone else.”
Mohammed | Texas A&M
Emily | Study Abroad Office, NE
How to Apply for a Kaya Group Program: 6 Easy Steps
Inquiry
Whether you have a full itinerary or just an exciting idea, we will work with you where you are. Contact us below.
Conversation
After you inquire, we will reach out to discuss your learning objectives and vision.
Proposal & Review
We will then take our conversation and turn it into a proposed itinerary and quote for you to review. From here we work with you to fine-tune it.
Approval
We will support you through your approval process with any necessary paperwork or assessments your institution requires.
Preparation
We will work with you to assist in recruitment and group support pre-departure, including a pre-departure presentation.
Go!
With 24/7 support on the ground, you are ready to explore. We can’t wait to hear all about the impact of your trip!