Special Interest Group Programs
Whether you’re a group of friends, part of a photography society, a local football team, women’s club, or a member of the girl guides or boy scouts you can help to make a difference, and Kaya can help to make that difference a reality! Kaya offers many projects that can be related to your interests, goals and skill sets. Volunteering is one of the best ways to focus on your interest and passions whilst utilizing your skills and knowledge to help support local individuals and communities. Kaya can help to customize a trip for you that suits your group size and incorporates your goals and passions while giving you the chance to visit a new country.
Volunteering as part of a social group can be a lot of fun not only whilst you are on your project but also before you leave. Kaya will ensure that all of your onsite preparations are arranged and any needs of the group addressed. We will also arrange your onsite support and leaders so that you are supported 24/7 while in country.
Many groups form lasting relationships with the communities they visit and continue to support them in a variety of ways such as fundraising during holidays or preparing boxes of supplies to send abroad, some groups even return another year to volunteer again. These connections are essential to many grassroots and community projects and aid in their sustainability and ongoing presence in the community.
Many of our projects can be catered to your social group, and Kaya can help to create a customized itinerary. We understand that arranging a group volunteer placement can be a daunting task and is something that takes time, consideration and passion. Kaya can make sure that the needs of the group are taken care of and all of the details are arranged before your arrival. If you’re a member of a social group and looking for a project that fits your interests then contact one of our experienced Kaya representatives and find out what opportunities are available to you.
Why should you trust Kaya with your Special Interest Group Program?
We design adventures that help empower the communities we work with, while also cultivating educated, compassionate global citizens. Our core mission informs and guides all of our programming. We combine careful planning, a wealth of knowledge, and off-the-beaten-path destinations to create one-of-a-kind experiences. We believe in pushing boundaries. We also believe in win-win scenarios in which our students and our partners on the ground both benefit, grow and learn.
Responsible Approach
This is the leading goal of Kaya. From our program selection, to our health considerations, to our budget and everything in between, if it is not responsible then it is not done. Rest assured that by choosing Kaya you will be benefiting all parties involved.
Active Cultural Engagement
At Kaya, we combine cultural and academic immersion for maximum impact. Our commitment to genuine cross-cultural exchange extends to all of our customized programs, whether service-based, academic, tour-based, or a combination.
Personalised Advising
An international experience shouldn’t be based on a uniform template. Therefore we customize all itineraries and have consistent communication when developing your program.
Safety and Liability
This is of the utmost important to us. We are guided by the US State Department, local government regulations, Center for Disease Control, World Health Organization, and your institution guidelines. All group programs are covered by a $5 million liability insurance.
On-Site Program Coordinator
All group programs include an On-site Program Coordinator (OPC). OPCs will join the program from start to finish and are thoroughly vetted and trained to lead groups and navigate emergency situations.
Passionate Team
Everyone on our team has been influenced by cultural exchanges in some way or another, and this passion feeds into every trip we do!
“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
What's the Process? How Do I Start a Group Program?
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!