Transforming lives - One Volunteer Group at a Time!

CARRYING FORWARD A LEGACY OF IMPACT

ISV Legacy Programs (ISVLegacy.org) — Official Stewards of the ISV Legacy

These testimonials, images, and program offerings honor the vision, leadership, and dedication of ISV’s founders, as well as the partners, project leaders, and volunteers who brought that vision to life. They reflect a legacy built through decades of thoughtful program design, meaningful community partnerships, and a deep commitment to ethical, impactful service around the world.

ISV Legacy serves as the official steward of ISV’s programs, and with our firsthand experience as former ISV directors and project leaders, we carry forward the foundations of these programs. We approach this work with humility, passion, and deep gratitude—guided by lived experience and a profound sense of responsibility to preserve the mission, values, and ideals that define ISV’s enduring legacy. The programs and frameworks established by those who came before us set the standard for the experiences reflected in these stories, images, and testimonials, and our role is not to redefine that legacy, but to uphold it with care, integrity, and respect.

For future volunteers, these stories represent both a heritage and an invitation: to carry forward the resilience, compassion, and global responsibility that have long defined ISV, and to help extend its impact for generations to come.

Explore these stories, and consider how your own journey may become part of this enduring legacy and how you can “Impact Your World.”

90 SECOND TRAILER AS FEATURED ON THE DISCOVERY CHANNEL

ISV LEGACY PROGRAMS OVERVIEW

We are proud to offer life-changing global immersion experiences in the Dominican Republic today, with Costa Rica and Australia continuing in 2028 and beyond.

Together, we serve through meaningful health initiatives, community development, childhood education, and conservation projects that uplift communities and create lasting impact—while building lifelong friendships, deepening your philanthropic purpose, and strengthening your academic and professional trajectory for years to come.

ISV LEGACY PROGRAMS INVITES YOU

Connect with purpose through life-changing global service and immersion programs!

Our Why:

Following our passion and grounded in decades of trusted global service, we exist to create sustained behavior change—for volunteers and the communities we serve.

How:

Through structured, well-supported service-learning experiences rooted in one of the world’s most respected student volunteer legacies, we transform perspective, purpose, and the support systems within the communities we serve.

What:

World-renowned immersive global programs that build and accelerate careers, foster meaningful lifelong connections, and create lasting impact.

ISV Legacy Programs advances the ISV tradition through immersive global experiences that transform lives and strengthen communities worldwide. Whether you are a student, young adult, adult demonstrating purpose, family participant, pursuing a pre-health path, taking a gap year, or an early-career or practicing health or other professional, this is your opportunity to continue making a meaningful difference — together, transforming lives, including your own — while building lifelong friendships and joining a global community of change-makers..

For Academic, Institutional, and Mission-Focused Partners

The immersion dates listed on our website represent open-enrollment programs available to individual participants and groups.

Departures are fully customizable to align with your academic, institutional, and or mission focused calendar, cohort size, institutional priorities, and defined learning and service objectives.

Beyond our published dates, we maintain active international philanthropic partnerships that allow us to coordinate tailored group immersions with flexibility in duration, travel timing, service focus, and group size. Through our established host relationships and on-the-ground infrastructure, we are well-positioned to facilitate customized experiences — including larger cohorts or shorter planning timelines — while upholding the highest standards of safety, organization, and mission alignment.

Join ISV Legacy Programs for immersive service experiences focusing health, community development and childhood education, and/or conservation in some of the world’s most diverse and inspiring destinations. Through 2029 and beyond, programs will continue in the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, and Australia—with additional destinations launching beyond 2029. Each experience is thoughtfully designed to create meaningful impact, foster deep cultural connection, inspire unforgettable adventure, and build lifelong friendships that extend far beyond the journey.

If you’re ready to serve with purpose, grow personally and professionally, build friendships for life, and have the time of your life—YOU BELONG HERE:

Summer Program — July 2026
Dominican Republic
Programs, Dates & Application Access

Applications are currently available for the July 2026 Summer Immersion in the Dominican Republic.

👉 Click Here for Programs, Dates & Application Access: Dominican Republic - 2026

Summer Program — July 2027
Dominican Republic
Programs, Dates & Application Access

Applications are currently available for the July 2027 Summer Immersion in the Dominican Republic.

👉 Click Here for Programs, Dates & Application Access: Dominican Republic - 2027

Summer Programs — 2028
Dominican Republic • Costa Rica
Programs, Dates & Application Access (Details Pending)

Applications are now available through the Early Planning Application — Exact Dates Forthcoming process for individuals planning more than one year in advance. Participants may apply now to secure priority consideration ahead of official date and program detail releases.

👉 Click Here to Apply — Early Planning Application — Exact Dates Forthcoming: Dominican Republic - 2028

👉 Click Here to Apply — Early Planning Application — Exact Dates Forthcoming: Costa Rica - 2028

Summer Programs — 2029
Dominican Republic • Costa Rica • Australia
Programs, Dates & Application Access (Details Pending)

👉 Click Here to Apply — Early Planning Application — Exact Dates Forthcoming: Dominican Republic - 2029

👉 Click Here to Apply — Early Planning Application — Exact Dates Forthcoming: Costa Rica - 2029

👉 Click Here to Apply — Early Planning Application — Exact Dates Forthcoming: Australia - 2029

[Please note: ISV Legacy Programs publishes anticipated immersion dates, general program timelines and opens application access for relative future immersions typically one (1) year in advance — and no fewer than nine (9) months prior to departure — to support thoughtful academic, professional, and financial planning. For those planning further ahead, future immersion seasons can generally be expected to follow a similar timeframe and calendar structure as the most recently published program year, allowing for long-range preparation with greater clarity and confidence.

For programs departing more than one (1) year from now, ISV Legacy Programs offers an Early Planning Application — Exact Dates Forthcoming option for individuals who prefer to plan early and secure priority consideration. While specific immersion dates and final program cost details are typically released approximately one year in advance, applicants may apply in advance under a “Exact Dates Forthcoming” designation. Upon acceptance, participants may secure their future cohort placement even before official dates are published. Any required deposit submitted after acceptance remains fully refundable up to forty-five (45) days prior to the confirmed departure date, providing flexibility while allowing you to plan ahead with confidence.

ISV Legacy typically publishes even more specific program details approximately three (3) months and one (1) month prior to departure, These specific updates are sent directly to confirmed applicants.]

Each of these three historically popular ISV countries offers the opportunity to experience, firsthand, vibrant cultures and warm, friendly people.

Philanthropic purpose, career growth, and meaningful connections are at the heart of everything we do. From the moment you begin your application—and in the weeks leading up to departure—we work with you to refine your service goals and/or mission focus and to clarify your personal career and philanthropic pathway, while building friendships that grow into lifelong connections among fellow volunteers and within the local communities we serve. Our immersions are designed to unite like-minded volunteers—some seasoned, others stepping into service and or international travel for the first time—creating a close-knit team with a shared purpose.

Step into a global immersion experience that will forever enhance your career and philanthropic trajectory while transforming lives—including your own—through meaningful community improvement, service, mission, and or health and wellness projects as you volunteer abroad!

The communities we serve face significant challenges and may lack even the most basic resources—such as reliable running water, electricity, quality education, or adequate sanitation. Yet none of this diminishes their incredible warmth. Both adults and children welcome you quickly, and their energy and smiles are truly contagious.

The communities we serve are also located in some of the most stunning areas within our host countries. For example, some are tucked high in the mountains or deep in nature, surrounded by breathtaking views you’ll never forget.

After completing your chosen immersive service experience(s) focusing health, community development and childhood education, and/or conservation, most participants opt in to continue their journey through Beyond the Project: Cultural Exploration Through Shared Experiential Adventure & Immersion. This phase is designed to deepen cultural understanding, strengthen cohort bonds, and place community experiences within a broader regional and cultural context. In this phase, service deepens through shared experiential adventure and immersive moments that build strong connections and lasting friendships—reinforcing meaning and encouraging reflection, perspective, and sustained behavioral change within a social learning environment.

Participants experience unforgettable adventure, build lifelong friendships, expand their global perspective, and cultivate a lasting commitment to service—while gaining experiences that forever strengthens future academic, professional, and philanthropic pursuits.

A GLIMPSE INTO HOW LIVES ARE CHANGED — INCLUDING YOUR OWN

This original footage was created onsite by volunteers themselves — for future volunteers who will continue to carry this legacy forward. It captures real moments of service, growth, and connection — passing the torch from one cohort to the next and offering a glimpse of how lives are changed, including your own.

Filmed in real time — often by volunteers in the moment — and uploaded in 4K to preserve its authenticity. Playback quality may vary based on internet speed or buffering.

How Our Programs Work

ISV Legacy programs begin with a structured service-learning immersion supported through HELP2SERVE.CARE, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This phase reflects the organization’s charitable mission and long-standing community partnerships.

Following completion of the service-learning immersion, participants most often opt in to continue into Beyond the Project—a distinct phase of guided cultural exploration and experiential learning designed to deepen reflection, context, and understanding.

COMING SOON — Application Deadline for Dominican Republic

For July 2026, choose an immersive volunteer service experience focusing on health, community development and childhood education, and/or conservation—then opt in to take your journey further through the Beyond the Project: Cultural Exploration Through Shared Experiential Adventure & Immersion phases of your program.

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VIEW APPICATION PAGE FOR DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - 2026/27

Immersions | Dominican Republic 2026 through 2029 & Beyond

Health-Focused Immersions with 🕒 24/7 U.S. licensed healthcare mentorship - Dominican Republic 2026 through 2029 and beyond

For all our health-focused immersions — a U.S.-licensed and nationally certified Medical Doctor (MD or DO), Physician Assistant (PA), or Nurse Practitioner (NP) will be embedded with your group Their presence is designed to provide clinical context to participant observations, facilitate structured learning discussions, and support thoughtful reflection throughout the health-focused immersion experience. Serving as an educator and mentor, this professional strengthens the educational depth of the immersion. You will also be actively engaging with local doctors, nurses, and or public health professionals, giving you a true 360° global health perspective. These experts will guide your journey through:

✋ Observational and education experiences in real-world clinical settings
📖 Case-based learning and group reflection
🤝 Collaboration public health teams and in caring for those in need

This is one of the only programs that pairs immersive global health service learning with a licensed U.S. provider during the volunteer portion of your immersion, along with local expertise and mentorship.

🏘️ Community Development and Childhood Education Immersions - Dominican Republic 2026 through 2029 and beyond

The Dominican Republic is a developing country facing the ongoing struggles of poverty. As a volunteer, you have the opportunity to work in the Dominican communities that are handpicked by ISV Legacy to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of underprivileged children and families. Your efforts will focus on education (via the ISV Legacy Children’s Program) and building projects for community infrastructure in rural areas. Many of these communities have no electricity or running water, everyday things that many people take for granted.

🌊 Conservation Immersions - Dominican Republic 2026 through 2029 and beyond

As a volunteer, you can take part in mixed-program projects across the Dominican Republic’s incredibly diverse environments — from tropical coastlines and vibrant marine ecosystems to rural communities and lush forested regions. Each placement blends meaningful service with hands-on learning, giving you the chance to experience the country in a way most travelers never do.

One standout option is a marine biology and conservation immersion set along one of the Dominican Republic’s most beautiful beaches. Here, volunteers work alongside local conservation partners supporting sea turtle protection and monitoring efforts while contributing to the preservation of natural marine habitats — all while living, learning, and volunteering in an unforgettable coastal setting.

Immersions | Costa Rica 2028 · Australia 2029 & Beyond

Health-Focused Immersions with 🕒 24/7 U.S. healthcare mentorship - details coming soon for 2028+!

In addition to the Dominican Republic in 2026 and beyond, we will continue to offer health-focused experiences in Costa Rica 2028 and beyond and Australia in 2029 and beyond—that will forever enhance your career trajectory while transforming lives—including your own!

Community Development and Childhood Education Immersions - details coming soon for 2028+!

Health-Focused Immersions with 🕒 24/7 U.S. healthcare mentorship - details coming soon for 2028+!

In addition to the Dominican Republic in 2026 and beyond, we will continue to offer community development and childhood education experiences in Costa Rica 2028 and beyond and Australia in 2029 and beyond. Be greeted with smiles, laughter, and real connection as you help strengthen the lives of children and families in Costa Rica and Australia—through hands-on community support and meaningful childhood education.

Conservation Immersions - details coming soon for 2028+!

Health-Focused Immersions with 🕒 24/7 U.S. healthcare mentorship - details coming soon for 2028+!

Conservation Immersions - details coming soon for 2028+!

In addition to the Dominican Republic in 2026 and beyond, we will continue to offer conservation experiences in Costa Rica 2028 and beyond and Australia in 2029 and beyond. Discover diverse landscapes, ecosystems, and wildlife as you work hands-on to protect and preserve the natural environments of Costa Rica and Australia—making a difference that truly matters.

APPLICATIONS - AUSTRALIA - 2029

VIEW APPLICATION PAGE FOR AUSTRALIA - 2029

Changing Lives Since 2002

Legacy of Service

International Students Volunteer (ISV) began offering unique volunteer abroad and adventure travel programs in 2002. Since then, over 30,000 participants have completed ISV’s amazing volunteer projects in conservation and community development.

Continue the Legacy

Following our passion and grounded in decades of trusted global service, we exist to create sustained behavior change—for volunteers and the communities we serve. Turn your passion into impact—explore our programs, apply, and step into lifelong purpose-driven leadership.

Honored for Impact

International Students Volunteer (ISV) was selected as a TOP 10 Voluntary Service Organization by the US Center for Citizen Diplomacy and was awarded ‘Outstanding Project of the Year’ from the World Youth and Student Travel (WYSTC).

Learn what participants discovered makes ISV’s projects truly exceptional.

ISV LEGACY'S STORY

INSPIRED BY DECADES OF DEMONSTRATED ISV PASSION AND EXECUTION

ISV’s story is an inspiring one that weaves together a vision for change, teamwork across many continents, and a sound belief that volunteers can make a positive impact on our planet, while experiencing life-changing volunteer work and adrenaline filled adventure travel!

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE STEWARDS OF THE ISV LEGACY

As you volunteer, you’ll experience the deep fulfillment that tens of thousands of ISV participants have described as truly life-changing.

Through this experience, you’ll make a meaningful difference by supporting health, humanitarian, environmental, and community-focused initiatives.

Serve alongside local communities to help improve quality of life through community-building and children’s programs, including arts and crafts, music, recreation, health initiatives, and education. You may also take part in conservation projects that support endangered species management and habitat restoration.

HISTORICAL IMPACT

Building on nearly 3 million volunteer hours, the ISV Legacy continues.
Thanks to dedicated volunteers, a supportive global community, and amazing community partners - ISV has made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless individuals and communities. From building community centers to providing essential resources to those in need, these achievements reflect the heart of ISV’s mission.

We are proud of this history—and even more inspired to carry the ISV Legacy forward, expanding its impact for generations to come.

🎓Academic Credits

🏆 Why ISV Legacy Programs

Volunteers describe earning academic credit with ISV as a powerful learning experience that transforms real-world service into lasting academic and professional growth.

Find Out More

🏆 Why ISV Legacy Programs

Learn why over 30,000 volunteers across the globe have helped build ISV’s legacy—consistently rating their experience an outstanding 4.85 out of 5 stars and setting the gold standard for student volunteer programs worldwide.

Find Out More

🌍 Volunteer Abroad

🏆 Why ISV Legacy Programs

🌍 Volunteer Abroad

ISV’s projects have earned international recognition and prestigious awards for their impact. That legacy remains grounded in a lasting commitment to meaningful, measurable, and positive change.

Find Out More

About and Contact Us

International Student Volunteers — Legacy Programs (ISV Legacy Programs) serves as the official steward of the enduring International Student Volunteers (ISV) legacy.

We advance this legacy through time-tested frameworks that prioritize excellence, safety, educational integrity, and measurable global impact — delivering structured and transformative immersive experiences for the next generation of leaders.

ISV Legacy Programs operates as a mission-driven educational service organization and is powered by HELP2SERVE.CARE, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. HELP2SERVE.CARE and ISV Legacy Programs function as separate legal entities.

Beginning with anticipated departures in 2028, ISV Legacy Programs and HELP2SERVE.CARE intend to introduce a structured — Micro Fellowship Initiative — supported through strategic charitable partnerships. These fellowships are designed to expand access, strengthen measurable service outcomes, and advance transformative pathways for individuals, groups, and institutions committed to sustained local and global impact.

At this time:

• We are not soliciting charitable donations.
• Program fees represent payment for immersive experiences and relative program support.
• Program fees are not charitable contributions and are not tax-deductible.

ISV Legacy Programs is headquartered in El Dorado Hills, California, and delivers immersive programs through trusted global partnerships and mission-aligned philanthropic partners.

📞 General Inquiries & Program Information

+1 (415) 669-0055

Programs, dates, eligibility, and application questions:

Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (Pacific Time)

Messages are monitored and returned during business hours.

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📞 Participant & Family Support

+1 (415) 669-0066

For pre-departure participants, currently active participants, alumni following completion of service, and families with non-urgent questions or concerns:

Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (Pacific Time)

Messages are monitored and returned during business hours.

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info@isvlegacy.org

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🚨 Urgent Situations

Urgent contact information is collected from enrolled participants and shared directly and privately with participants and their designated family contacts prior to program departure.