Question: Do I need any special skills of training to volunteer for a SeaAid project?

Answer: No. All you need is a willingness to work and learn, good health, and a positive outlook!

Question: Does it cost anything to volunteer for a SeaAid project?

Answer: It depends upon the project. Some projects are funded through grants or other sources, while other projects are funded directly by the project volunteer's contributions. Please refer to our Current Projects page to see what projects are available and if there is a program fee.

Question: Are there any age restrictions?

Answer: Volunteers under the age of 19 must be accompanied family members or a travel chaperone. There is no upper age limit.

Question: Are familes welcome?

Answer: Absolutely! However, please bear in mind that many SeaAid projects are in remote locations--often times with no electricity or running water which may be difficult for young children.

Question: What kind of projects do SeaAid volunteers work on?

Answer: SeaAid takes a very different approach to our projects than many other aid organizations in instead of proposing projects that meet the organization's goals or agenda, we actually ask community members what we can do to help their village. The most common problems facing small coastal communities are: sanitation, clean drinking water, and sustainable cooking technologies. SeaAid addresses these problems through proven appropriate technologies like composting toilets, bio-sand filters, and solar ovens. Many of these project technologies are demonstrated in our photo galleries. We also have projects that focus upon gardening, water catchment, coral reef managment, education, etc.

Question:Where will I stay while working on a SeaAid project?

Answer: Whenever possible, SeaAid will coordinate homestay opportunities in the villages where we work as this is the best way to learn about and enjoy the communities we serve. Additionally, homestay fees provide much-needed cash income for community members. On those SeaAid projects where we use our research vessel Taza, limited berths are available for a fee on a first-come, first-served basis.

Question: Will SeaAid make my travel arrangements for me?

Answer: No. Volunteers are responsible for their own transportation to and from the project location. We will however offer our assistance in making your travel arrangements, and in many cases we can coordinate ground transportation once you're in-country.

Question: Are the costs of my trip tax-deductible?

Answer: SeaAid is a registered 501(c)3 tax exempt nonprofit organization and contributions made to SeaAid are typically tax-deductible. In order to determine if your travel expenses and/or program fee is tax-deductible, we would suggest that you speak with a tax professional to get specific answers relative to your tax situation.