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Volunteer Reviews

"What a profound journey, life altering experience, and eye opening adventure. My perspective is shifted and my body is still buzzing!"

“Truly an eye opening experience that I will remember for the rest of my life. Inspiring and thought provoking in every way. New friends, and plenty of new experiences for all were found every day and I returned home with a new attitude and outlook on my own life. I intend to share my love of this experience with my friends and colleagues!”

“The experience is beyond amazing. I invite anybody even just THINKING about it ... GO! it may just change your life in the best way imaginable."

“Personally the trip was eye opening for me. To be up close and personal with the people of Nicaragua was at times heartbreaking, but at the same was amazing and beautiful! I went to serve and I felt that I was served by the people and children of Nicaragua.”

“My experience with SYRV was extremely worthwhile. Helping the community and being with a great group who was a lot of fun. I felt fully alive and part of the world. Coming back to LA I am now driven to seek that same inspiration and passion in my daily life. My experience in Nica was positive & life-changing and I am truly grateful to have been a part of it.”

"SYRV really gave me the opportunity to use my skills and knowledge to give back to the community, as well as enabling me to experience the beauty and culture of Nicaragua in a very hands-on and personal way. Donating just one week of my time I was able to collaborate with a great team to provide clean drinking water for hundreds of school children for many years to come."

"Words can not accurately describe my recent trip to Nicaragua. It was fulfilling in ways that I could not imagine. Unexpected surprises occurred daily and friendships were formed during some unforgettable excursions. The volunteer work we did turned our surf/yoga retreat into a divine spiritual adventure. Many of us were overwhelmed by the children in Jiquilillo and Chinandega. It didn't matter what they were receiving-- a bowl of soup, a surf lesson, a new pair of Adidas tennis shoes or even a toothbrush, the kids were always grateful. And despite having very little--- their hearts would be busting with joy every time they caught a glimpse of us riding down a dirt road, in an open vehicle. Sharing with others less fortunate, communing with nature and getting to know new people made my entire experience worthwhile and I would not hesitate to do it again."

"I'm not sure if I have a selection or words profound enough to do this trip justice. I went into this journey with the intent to experience a shift in perspective on not only my only life but the challenges of greater humanity. What I ended up walking away with was a lifelong and powerful connection to people who, at the beginning, were total strangers to me; an understanding and tremendous appreciation for the daily conveniences I take for granted and consequently a desire to make changes no matter how micro they may be. The gratitude I feel for this experience and the people I met is overwhelming. I would, and will, make this journey again."