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Frequently Asked Questions
The Frequently Asked Questions document answers many of the most common questions about Global PeaceMakers programs. It provides information about what to expect during a program, a typical schedule, packing, emergencies, Internet and telephone usage, accommodations, food, and water, participation requirements, health and travel information, and more.
What does the program fee pay for?
Do participants need to speak a foreign language in order to participate?
Do participants need to have previous experience in order to participate?
What will the accommodations be like?
What does a typical daily schedule look like?
Should I buy travel medical insurance?
Will someone meet me at the airport?
What should I do if my flight is delayed?
GPM programs typically last between 7-14 days.
Program costs range depending on the host country and complexity of project i.e. if the school is just being renovated or if a school is being built from scratch. The average program fee is about $650 but can go up to $950, not including airfare. Service For Peace accepted applicants with fundraising ideas and tips.
What does the program fee pay for?
The Global PeaceMakers program is funded by the volunteers' program fees. The program fee covers room & board, in-country transportation, service and program materials, cultural and recreational activities, clean drinking water, 24-hour local and US staff accompaniment, and more. Volunteer program fees not only helps the staff at each respective country sustain their offices but it helps them continue the US volunteers' work in the communities with local volunteers as well.
Do participants need to speak a foreign language in order to participate?
No! Each project will have bilingual staff members available for translation.
Do participants need to have previous experience in order to participate?
No! We welcome participants from all levels of experience. There is work available appropriate to the abilities and skills of each accepted participant.
What will the accommodations be like?
Participants sleep grouped by gender and by rooms of 2-10 depending on the housing for the project. Participants should expect modest settings; past lodging sites include rooms rented at a convent, small hotels, religious campsites, community-owned houses, and elementary schools. We typically eat breakfast and dinner at this site and bring lunch to the worksite. While these sites vary in the comfort level, participants can always expect running water, drinking water, and bathrooms.
What does a typical daily schedule look like?
A typical daily schedule might look like this:
- 7:30 Wake up
- 8:00 Breakfast
- 9:00 Depart for worksite
- 9:30-12:30 Work
- 12:30-1:30 Break for lunch
- 1:30-3:00 Work
- 3:00-3:15 Break
- 3:15-4:30 Work
- 4:30 Depart for lodging
- 5:00-6:30 Shower/rest/free time
- 6:30-7:30 Dinner
- 7:30-9:00 Group activities, special guests, etc.
- 9:00-9:30 Reflection
Should I buy travel medical insurance?
Yes, all international participants should have valid emergency medical insurance. It is required that participants provide their primary medical insurance information, and participants should check with this insurance carrier regarding emergency travel medical coverage. In the event that the participant is not covered for emergency medical expenses abroad, separate emergency travel medical insurance should be purchased. Service For Peace cannot be liable for emergency medical expenses incurred during the program.
Will someone meet me at the airport?
Yes, Service For Peace staff will be waiting for you, wearing Service For Peace shirts and carrying a large Service For Peace sign.
