(1) Tell me more about the Global Volunteer Network?
The Global Volunteer Network was set up by Colin Salisbury, its founder and director, after spending time volunteering in Ghana, West Africa. While he was there he saw the tremendous difference volunteers could make in helping local organizations achieve their goals. Upon returning to New Zealand he spent some time researching the different volunteer organizations around the world and was amazed at how expensive some programs were and how limiting many were in terms of volunteer options. The Global Volunteer Network was launched in December 2000 with the aim of providing quality placements for volunteers.
We are currently offering volunteer placements through our partner organizations in China, Ecuador, Ghana, Nepal, Russia, Romania, Thailand and Uganda. If you are interested in volunteering in other countries I suggest you subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

(2) Tell me more about Russia?
The Russian Federation covers almost twice the area of the United States of America, and reaches from Moscow in the west over the Urals and the vast Siberian plains to the Sea of Okhotsk in the east. The capital, Moscow, was founded in 1147. The focal point of the city is Red Square, on one side of which is the Kremlin surrounded by a thick red fortress wall containing 20 towers. The tsars were crowned here; Ivan the Terrible's throne is situated near the entrance. Those interested in Russia's achievements in the field of space travel should visit Star City, just outside Moscow, which is a cosmonaut training complex open to visitors. St Petersburg, northwest of Moscow, is known both as a cultural centre and for its elegant buildings. The city is spread over 42 islands in the delta of the River Neva. Wide boulevards, tranquil canals and bridges led to the city being known as the 'Venice of the North'. For more information I suggest you purchase the Lonely Planet's guide to Russia.

(3) What kind of volunteer work is available?
Volunteers have the opportunity to play games with children, sing songs with them, to teach English, to organize activities, to help children to do special physical exercises, to go for a walk with them and to do everything useful for them in accordance with volunteer�s skills and life experience.

(4) Do I have to be from New Zealand?
No, you can also be from Australia, Canada, Europe, Ireland, UK, and USA.

(5) What age do you have to be to volunteer?
You must be 21 years old or over. There is no upper limit. You just have to be in good health.

(6) Do you provide any financial support?
We unfortunately are not in a position to offer any financial support. You may want to consider enrolling in a later program to allow enough time to save the funds required.

(7) What immunizations/vaccines will I need?
You will need Hepatitis B vaccinations. We advise that you consult your doctor about this.

(8) Do I need to speak Russian to become a volunteer?
No, however if you learn a little Russian before you go it would greatly enhance your volunteer experience.

(9) When do I need to arrive in Russia?
You can start the program at any time during the year. There is a minimum volunteer time of 2 weeks and a maximum of 3 months. .

(10) What countries do most volunteers come from?
The majority of volunteers that come through the Global Volunteer Network are from the United States, Canada, England and Australia. We also have smaller numbers of people from the Europe, Japan and New Zealand.

(11) Are the fees and expenses tax deductible?
No, we are only registered as an organization in New Zealand.

(12) Do you have any ideas for fundraising for my volunteer experience?
Yes. Once you have paid your application fee, We will send you the link to our 20 page program guide which includes fundraising ideas.

(13) What are the living arrangements when volunteering?
Volunteers can be accommodated in local hotels or a home-stay according of their wishes. Volunteers stay in a room in a flat and are required to share a room with other volunteer(s). Accommodations are modest yet clean, safe and comfortable. They include standard beds, flush toilets, running hot and cold water, electricity, laundry facilities and a kitchen.

(14) Do you need travel insurance?
Yes, you must take out travel insurance which also includes medical or health insurance as part of the deal.

(15) Are we able to do any sightseeing while volunteering?
Yes. Volunteers are encouraged to take at least 4 days off a month and to travel around Russia a bit. Normally volunteers also have 2 days off each week.

(16) Are there more expenses once I arrive?
The program fee covers, accommodation, airport transfers and expenses for preparation of all necessary papers and documents. The other costs volunteers will need to meet are: Your flights to Russia and back, Visa, shots, vaccination, medical certificate, medical and travel insurance, police report and corresponding airport departure taxes. Also you will need a weekly budget from US $25 to US $70 to cater for food & beverage and all your other expenses like personal items and entertainment.

(17) How safe is it to volunteer in Russia?
Russia is safer than most Eastern European countries. The thing to remember is that all western travelers are considered wealthy in Russia so it is important to keep valuables out of site.

(18) Can you tell me more about your partner in Russia?
Our partner is registered as a legal foundation in Russia and has accreditation from the Child Protection Committee. They have been operating since 1991 and run four group homes with a total of 33 children/young adults aged between 8 months and 26. The Children have suffered much in their young lives and with your help our partner can give them hope of a better future.

(19) Who organizes my flights?
You do. Once you have paid your application fee, We will send you the link to our 20 page program guide which includes links to discount travel sites.

(20) Who organizes my visa for my volunteer placement?
We will guide you through the process. It can take up to two months to get a visa.

If we have not answered your question. Send us a message below. (We aim to answer all emails with in 48 hours).