Is NCLO's onsite volunteer program really FREE? Yes. While volunteers are required to cover all expenses involved in volunteering (transportation to/from the country, in-country transportation, needed supplies, accommodations, food, etc.), there are no fees for volunteering with NCLO. We welcome the help!

Does NCLO provide room and board with their program? Depending on availability, NCLO can offer dorm style room and board to a limited number of volunteers for $15 nightly. This includes three meals a day, laundry facilities, and a bed with sheets and cover. Occasionally single rooms are also available for $25 nightly.  

Is there a minimum age requirement? NCLO welcomes capable volunteers of all ages, however, volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Is there a minimum amount of time I need to commit to volunteering? No.

Is there a maximum amount of time I can volunteer? No. In fact, if you are considering volunteering for a longer term, we recommend that you also consider one of our staff positions that are frequently available for stays of a minimum of three months.

What type of volunteer activities can I expect to do while I'm there? Our volunteer activities are wide spread. They can range from delivering supplies, to providing first aid, to teaching, to manual labor, to chaperoning on field trips.

What should I bring? Most things that you may wish to donate can be purchased cheaply in Cambodia. If you will be gathering donated items to bring with you, click here to see our recommended list.

What expenses can I expect to incur while volunteering onsite? NCLO volunteers are responsible for all expenses they incur in registering for our program, getting to/from Cambodia, and accommodations, food, transportation and miscellaneous expenses while in country. Volunteers are also responsible for either bringing with them, purchasing in country, or contributing toward the purchase of the necessary tools and supplies required for their volunteering efforts.

Can I just visit the orphanages on my own? NCLO cannot guarantee that you will be welcomed at the orphanages if you do not have an appointment or are not accompanied by an NCLO team member.

Can I take a child or children out of the orphanage? Occasionally NCLO can arrange for a child or children to leave the orphanage for a part of the day. This would be part of an NCLO approved trip and the child or children would need to be accompanied by an NCLO team member as well as the volunteer. Overnight trips are prohibited.

Can I visit with my sponsor child or E-Pal? Yes! We encourage it! However, please be aware that your sponsor child or E-Pal may not initially make the connection between the letters or photos they receive and you standing there in person. In all honesty, it is not likely that your child will run to you with open arms. They tend to be a bit shy at first with their sponsors or E-Pals but warm up quickly and genuinely. It's a wonderful experience.

What can I expect when I arrive in Cambodia? You will need to contact NCLO to let us know that you have arrived and to arrange a time to meet to begin your volunteering.

What advice do you have for me in preparing for and planning my trip? Be sure to visit our volunteer website www.nclosam.org. There you can meet other traveling volunteers as well as find or get the answers to most of your pre-travel questions!

Click one of the links on the left to learn more or to register today!