In this inspiring episode of the Leaders of Transformation podcast, host Nicole Jansen welcomes Kimberly Haley-Coleman, founder and executive director of Globe Aware – an award-winning nonprofit that has mobilized volunteers across more than 25 countries through service adventures that create lasting social impact. Kimberly shares how voluntourism, when done responsibly, goes far beyond traditional travel. These immersive experiences cultivate cross-cultural leadership, deepen human connection, and shift how people see the world – and themselves. From her own journey, leaving the corporate world to building Globe Aware, Kimberly breaks down the power of meaningful service and the practical steps for participating in global volunteer projects. This conversation reveals why service travel isn’t just about helping others – it’s about developing resilience, gratitude, empathy, and a renewed appreciation for humanity. If you’ve ever wanted your vacation to mean more than photos and souvenirs – or you’re seeking a powerful way to grow as a leader, family, or team – this episode may spark your next bold step.
Family Volunteer Vacations: Travel Together, Serve Together, Make a Global Impact
Family Volunteer Vacations: Meaningful Travel for the Whole Family
Travel has the power to broaden minds and create lasting memories – but when families combine exploration with meaningful service, that experience becomes transformative.Family volunteer vacations allow families to travel together, contribute to community-led projects, and build stronger bonds through shared purpose and adventure. Globe Aware, a nonprofit organization specializing in immersive service travel, offers professionally led family programs designed to promote cultural awareness and sustainable community impact.
Corporate Volunteer Vacations: Meaningful Team Building and Global Impact
Corporate Volunteer Vacations: Team Building Through Meaningful Service
In a world where purpose and performance go hand in hand, corporate volunteer vacations are emerging as an effective strategy for companies seeking to strengthen teams, give back to global communities, and elevate brand reputation. Globe Aware, a nonprofit leader in service travel, specializes in custom volunteer travel experiences that unite staff around shared goals while supporting sustainable community-led projects around the world.
Volunteer Travel in Costa Rica: Make an Impact with a Meaningful Globe Aware Service Vacation
Volunteer Travel in Costa Rica: A Purpose-Driven Adventure with Globe Aware
Costa Rica is more than a tropical getaway-it’s a place where volunteer travel can transform both lives and perspectives. With Globe Aware’s service vacation programs, you’ll combine meaningful service with cultural immersion, hands-on work, and the beauty of Costa Rica’s natural landscapes.
Machu Picchu, Peru: How a Globe Aware Volunteer Vacation Transforms Your Travel Experience
Machu Picchu, Peru: Beyond Sightseeing – A Volunteer Vacation with Purpose
When most travelers think of Machu Picchu Peru, visions of mist-shrouded Inca ruins, emerald terraces, and breathtaking mountain views come to mind. But what if your journey could go deeper – beyond sightseeing – into meaningful engagement with local people and culture? With a Globe Aware volunteer vacation, this iconic destination becomes a gateway to purpose-driven travel that blends adventure with impact.
Volunteer Travel: Transform Your Trip into Meaningful Global Impact
Volunteer Travel – A Purposeful Journey Beyond Tourism
What Is Volunteer Travel?
Volunteer travel blends purposeful service with exploration, inviting travelers to give their time, energy, and curiosity to support communities around the world. At its core, it’s about learning and serving – not just sightseeing. Rather than standing back as a spectator, volunteer travelers work side-by-side with local partners to help address real challenges, contribute to community-led projects, and immerse themselves in diverse cultures.
Voluntourism: Transform Your Travels Into Meaningful Global Impact
What Is Voluntourism and Why It Matters
Voluntourism – a blend of volunteer service and tourism – allows travelers to engage deeply with local communities while contributing to meaningful service projects during their trip. Unlike traditional tourism, which focuses on sightseeing and leisure, voluntourism embeds purpose and community impact into the travel experience.
Swipe Smart While Volunteering Abroad: When Traveling, What Is & Isn’t Covered While Traveling
In this special installment of IVPA’s Industry Series, summer intern Alida Cuttriss sits down with Fiona Lally, one of the foremost risk and insurance specialists in the international volunteer sector. Together, they unpack what your credit card’s travel insurance actually covers—and the surprising gaps that could leave you unprotected while volunteering abroad. From medical emergencies to trip interruptions, Fiona shares practical tips to help program providers and volunteers travel smarter and safer. Produced by the International Volunteer Programs Association, this episode is part of our ongoing effort to raise the quality, awareness, and safety of short-term overseas volunteer experiences. https://volunteerinternational.org/
The Ethics of Volunteer Travel: How to Serve Abroad the Right Way
Volunteer travel can uplift communities – but it must be done ethically. At its best, volunteerism empowers local people. At its worst, it can unintentionally reinforce dependence or disrupt cultural systems.
Globe Aware‘s approach focuses on ethical, community-led service that honors local voices and traditions.
Sustainable Volunteer Travel: How to Ensure Your Trip Creates Long-Term Good
Volunteer travel can be a powerful force for good – but only when done responsibly. Sustainability is at the heart of Globe Aware’s mission, ensuring every project benefits local communities long after volunteers return home.
