Volunteer Building Work Abroad

Work in under-resourced countries to build infrastructure and important buildings for communities

Volunteer on a Building Project with Projects Abroad to add important resources to communities that need them most.

Our Building Projects take place in under-resourced countries all over the world. Some are in rural areas, others in cities. You can build homes, schools, daycare centers, sanitation facilities, or community buildings. Some of our projects are based in places affected by natural disasters where communities are still recovering. As part of your project work you could:

Make bricks
Lay foundations
Plaster
Paint
Instal windows and doors

Our projects are sustainable and allow the local community to continue the work after you’ve left. By taking part, you’ll get to immerse in the local community and get to know the people you’re helping.

This experience is a safe and sociable way to give back where it’s needed, while building your own confidence and understanding of global issues.

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

We’d be happy to talk about creating a custom project for you. Most of our staff have been volunteers themselves, so they’re well placed to answer your questions, big or small.

(+1) 917 810 4744

Request Info

to start planning your project

Is a volunteer Building Project right for me?

If you’re passionate about bringing help to communities recovering from disasters and other challenges, a Building Project is right for you. Anyone can be be part of the solution for communities facing the challenges of natural disasters and poverty.

As a construction volunteer abroad, you’ll work alongside local experts, Projects Abroad staff, and committed volunteers from around the world. Be ready to work hard and be, so bring your can-do attitude.

Some of our projects are in communities recovering from natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes. By choosing this type of project, you’ll develop a better understanding of disaster relief and building important infrastructure.

If you’d like to help communities build infrastructure, but don’t feel a Building Project is right for you, you can choose an International Development Internship. Read our full list of projects for volunteering abroad.

Two women work together to saw wood to build playground equipment during their volunteer building work abroad.

What are the benefits of volunteer building work abroad?

By working on a construction volunteer project abroad, you can develop your own skills while giving back to a community that needs help.

Here are just some of the benefits that our previous volunteers talk about:

Skills like teamwork, communication, leadership, resilience, organizing, planning, and time management
An understanding of sustainable international development
Technical construction skills
Developing a global mindset, from working and empathizing with people from different cultures and backgrounds
Confidence from challenging yourself outside of your comfort zone

These benefits will improve your resume for future applications, and enhance your personal development.

Why does this project matter?

Some of the most important work that needs to be done in developing communities is setting up basic infrastructure. Helping communities through building will allow locals to continue with your efforts even after your volunteer work has ended.

What sets Projects Abroad’s Building Projects apart?

At Projects Abroad, our first aim is to benefit the communities we work in. You can be assured that your project is ethical. Our projects are ethical and well supported. Here are some factors that set us apart:

Dedicated staff support

On these projects, you’ll work alongside experts, members of the local community and Projects Abroad staff. You’ll also be part of a wider network of volunteers.

Hands-on experience and practical skills

Our volunteers carry out their own tasks that are important for the overall project. Your work will make a valuable contribution to the project goals.

Projects that make a difference

All our projects are well researched, targeted and sustainable. We aim to make a difference to the local community for the long term.

A staff member supports volunteers as they paint a newly constructed wall on one of our volunteer building projects

Next Steps

Choose a Project

Not quite what you're looking for?

Take a look at the following pages where you'll find collections of similar projects:

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Volunteer and young girl play outside on a childcare project in Ecuador.

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Three Projects Abroad divers swim alongside the camera, taking part in vital marine conservation work in Thailand

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Refugee Volunteer Support Abroad

As a refugee volunteer abroad, you’ll make sure people receive the dignity they deserve as they seek a better life. Help with English lessons, medical outreaches and more.