+44 (0) 203-284-4611 Info@v2volunteers.com
Natural beauty & cultural vibrancy

Jamaica

St Mary, Jamaica
8 projects
1 to 4 weeks

Volunteer in Jamaica

Jamaica, the island that bursts with natural beauty, cultural vibrancy and exotic flavors. The island delivers on sun, sand and sea, and is undoubtedly a top destination for beach lovers

However, beyond the picturesque tropical landscapes, life for the average Jamaican paints a different picture. Despite a booming tourism industry, most of the wealth never trickles down to where it is most needed, leaving many locals living in abject poverty. Taking a volunteering holiday in Jamaica means your time and money are well spent! Your time and skills support the development of local projects providing much-needed services to the local communities and businesses.

Jamaica is the best!  Perfect beaches and friendly people. The children at the school were adorable I learned a lot had so much fun. Thanks, V2!

Finnula, 2017

Volunteer Projects

Local businesses

Animal Centres

Schools

ANIMAL CARE AND VET MEDICINE

Provide care, love and attention to abandoned, neglected and injured animals. Volunteers with veterinary skills assist local vets with medical procedures and treatments.

Teaching and kindergarten

You will play an active role in sharing, teaching and caring for children at local schools. From enrichment to session planning, volunteers can choose to work with children aged 3 to 12 years old.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Support NGO's and local businesses by sharing your knowledge and experience. Your help can assist with business plans and operations.

SPORTS DEVELOPMENT

Teach a range of sports and physical activities to local children and inspire the next generation of athletes! Foster a sense of team spirit and promote healthy lifestyles in the next generation.

CHILD AND YOUTH WELLBEING

Volunteers become champions of wellbeing and mental health crafting techniques, facilitating group discussions and engaging in one-to-one conversations on key topics.

CREATE YOUR OWN PROJECT

Whether as a group or solo get creative and develop your own project! Set up a workshop, organise a health fair or run a sports camp, the choice is yours! We will tailor your volunteering experience to you.

Volunteer Highlights

  • Be apart of a process of change by aiding local organizations in achieving long-term sustainability and success
  • Immerse yourself in local culture, learn how to cook and dance, sample spicy flavors and soothing rhythms
  • Make lifelong friends on your ethical travel journey with other volunteers and locals
  • Discover the local way! Explore local attractions and off-the-beaten-path hot spots
Highlights

Jamaica

Music & Vibes

Did you know Jamaica produces the most music per capita? Music is everywhere, from conscious roots reggae riddims to catchy dancehall beats that contribute to the island’s rich culture..

Food

Jamaica’s gastronomy will no doubt grab your taste buds- the island’s traditional dishes are a must have! Think rice ‘n’ peas, curry goat and jerk chicken… Not to worry, Jamaica also caters to the vegan/vegetarian palette with a variety of seafood dishes..

Beaches & Rivers

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to Jamaica’s idyllic beaches, crystalline waters and lush mountains. Dunn’s River Falls, Negril Beach, and the Blue Mountains are just a few of her gems. There are many beautiful beaches and rivers are scattered throughout the island to explore.

“Volunteering truly connects you with local people, immerses you into the culture and you get to learn what everyday life is really like, yet, you still get to enjoy the natural beauty and charm because after all, you are still on holiday!”

Alex Davis

2016

Key Information

Location

St. Mary & St. Ann, North Coast of Jamaica.

Start dates

Available all year round –

1st & 3rd Monday of every month. Housing is provided a day prior (Sunday) and after your volunteering project.(Saturday)

Accommodation

Shared volunteer house. Volunteers share a single-sex room with one or two other volunteers.

Requirements
  • 18 +
  • Criminal Background Check
  • Travel insurance
  • Advanced English

Spaces

Around 10 volunteers join us every month in Jamaica. This number generally doubles during the summer months, so be sure to reserve your space early!

Arrival

Airport pick-up is offered on Sundays from Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay.  However, you can arrive at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and make your way to Ocho Rios to be picked up.

 

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How to get started

1.  Pick destination & project

2. Apply & pay an admin fee

3. Upload your documents.  

4. Book flights & pay remaining balance

5. Start your Caribbean Volunteering trip

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What's Included
  • Orientation & training
  • Volunteer project
  • Airport pick-up
  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • 24/7 staff support
  • Professional recommendation letter on completion of project

Prices*

One Week –      £500       | $700


Two Weeks –     £750      | $1,000


Three Weeks –   £1,000   | $ 1,250


Four Weeks –     £1,250   | $1,500

*All applications attract a $200 deposit which is only refunded if applications are rejected. Applications are reviewed internally and a decision is  typically made within 5 working days. Volunteers must upload a recent criminal background check and get comprehensive travel insurance.

Check in & Check out

Volunteer programs begin on the first and third Monday of each month and volunteers need to arrive in Jamaica on the Sunday before orientation. Airport pick up is provided on Sundays and only from Sangster International Montego Bay. If you arrive at Norman Manley, Kingston, our team will pick you up from Ocho Rios.

When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and transported to the volunteer accommodation. Your accommodation is covered by your program Fee and includes the night before your program orientation.

If you arrive before your program starts or you wish to extend your stay after you complete your project this can be done for an additional $45 USD per night.

Safety & Rules

V2 works to safeguard the health and safety of all of our participants while they volunteer and explore. We provide 24/7 emergency support to volunteers and have highly trained staff equipped to deal with any issues.

While we do encourage volunteers to enjoy their time with us to the maximum, there are protocols, procedures and rules that we have put in place for the safety of volunteers. All volunteers must adhere to a code of conduct, failure to do so will result in dismals from our volunteer programs. 

Have a Question?

Talk to us

Location & Nearby Attractions

Volunteers stay in the quiet residential area of Boscobel, a five-minute drive from the famous James Bond Beach in Oracabessa. A 25-minute drive brings you to the tourist town of Ocho Rios where you will find all the popular attractions including Dunns River Falls.

Restaurants

Ocho Rios

  • Miss T’s  – Traditional Jamaican Food
  • Mi Hungry – Raw and Vegan
  • Hermosa Cove – Gourmet local dishes
  • Landmark – Chinese & Indian Food
Sightseeing
  • Tour of Kingston
  • Rosehall Historic Great House
  • Green Grotto Cave
Adventure

Ocho Rios

  • Mystic Mountain
  • Chukka Cove 
  • Yah Mon Adventure
Bars & Lounges

Ocho Rios

  • Tracks and Records – Usain Bolt’s Sports Bar
  • Ocean’s 11 – Karaoke on Tuesdays
  • John Crow’s – Bar
  • 8 Rivaz Lounge – Bar & Club 
  • Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville
Shows & Entertainment

Year-round concerts and live music shows

Day Trips
  • Dunn’s River Falls
  • Blue Hole
  • Mystic Mountain
  • Luminous Lagoon

What past volunteers say about their Jamaica experience…

I enjoyed my service work in Jamaica because I was able to immerse myself in actual communities by working at the day camp with the teen girls, and It was extremely worthwhile for the girls in the community. I think it really taught them entrepreneurial skills. I recognized the effect the program had on the girls by the end of the program. I also enjoyed the living arrangements of actually residing in a community as opposed to hotel arrangements. I made some incredible friends along the way- a bond that I will never forget.

Amber Horton

Community Development , Jamaica 2018

I loved working with the dogs on the Animal Care project and Jamaica is a beautiful island so you never get bored. There are always things to do and see. Before the trip I was nervous because Jamaica is sometimes portrayed as a dangerous country. Before arriving I had a reassuring conversation with the Managing Director, Jade, and when I arrived we had a very in-depth workshop on safety. I never once felt unsafe, my coordinator Jordane was always there when I had questions. The staff at the shelter were super friendly and kind. I love Jamaica, and definitely plan on coming back.

Amanda Wilks

Animal Care , Jamaica 2018

Jamaica is really beautiful and my volunteer experience was truly rewarding. What we might consider small tasks, truly go a long way in helping these businesses and it is truly gratifying. The V2 team were always pleasant and present when needed. They make everyone feel comfortable and relaxed and help organize your activities and excursions as well as group activities. The house was cleaned regularly and the housekeeper was always pleasant and respectful. The area is safe and the residents near our home were super friendly. I highly recommend a V2 experience!

Khadijah Banfield

Business & Community Development, Jamaica 2018

I loved working at the local primary school. I got to use my English Literature degree by helping the kids with reading and writing activities. I even got the chance to set up an after-school reading group with the kindergarten kids, which helped increase literacy. The teachers were supportive and gave me flexibility. If you’re looking for a challenging but rewarding experience, V2 is the right choice!

Sarah Dawson

Teaching, Jamaica 2019

Visit Jamaica with a twist

Volunteer Today!

Join us today for a volunteering adventure…

Office –
+ 442032894611

Office Jamaica – 
+ 1 876 715 3025

WhatsApp –
+447531200627

V2 Program Office
Sol’s Oasis
Main Street, Racecourse
Oracabessa, Jamaica

info@v2volunteers.com
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