The
VISIONS
Blog
Program Updates and Notes from the Field
Dig deeper into stories of friendships, community and projects.
The
VISIONS
Blog
Program Updates and Notes from the Field
Where We Live
While service work is at the root of each teen service program, it’s in equal measure with cultural immersion that transcends the experience of an average tourist. In all of our homes away from home, we live very much as local people do, and we are part of the fabric of daily life.
How to take a Holiday Digital Detox
Traditionally, the holidays are a time to gather, give thanks, reflect on the past and plan for the future. But what if it was also a time to unplug from technology?
My Dream Job in the Dominican Republic
Stacey Neve was a seasoned traveler and overseas educator in search of a community that shared her passions for meaningful service and cultural immersion. Living abroad had positively impacted her life, but her desire to help others find this type of life-changing experience needed a path forward. Stacey found what she was looking for when she joined VISIONS as a leader in the Dominican Republic this past summer. Read Stacey’s story to find out how this adventure changed her life and motivated her to move to Montana to join the VISIONS office full time.
Teen Community Service Programs in the United States
Teens open their eyes to the lesser-known cultural and environmental diversity of the United States. Engagement in the history and daily life of underrepresented communities expand the world views of high school and middle school students.
Sustainable Tourism in Galapagos
VISIONS launches a new program specific to the Galapagos Islands, aiming to involve teens in important sustainability projects on a local permaculture farm.
2019 Photo Contest Winners!
Winning photos from our 2019 VISIONS Photo Contest! Participants submitted photos from their summers around the globe and the VISIONS community voted for their favorite shots... See who won!
Six Reasons to Plan Your 2020 Summer Now
*Offer does not apply to GalapagosWhy Plan for 2020 Teen Travel Programs Now Six Reasons to Plan Summer in the FallWhy Plan for 2020 Teen Travel Programs Now Six Reasons to Plan Summer in the FallFeel like this past summer just came to a close, and next summer is far...
2019 Summer Program Highlights
As this summer 2019 begins to wrap up, VISIONS summer service trips continue to build, bond and explore. The following highlights provide overviews of the service projects, cultural experiences and adventures that are unique to each program.
Cedric Alvarez, Passion for Community Service
Thanks to the community, Cedric’s family and VISIONS leaders and participants all working together, Cedric’s passion for community service lives on.
VISIONS Leaders From Around the World
VISIONS leaders from around the world trained together in preparation for teen summer service trips. In the process, they forged deep connections.
Why VISIONS Alumni Return
There is something profound and positive about settling into the daily life of another culture, accomplishing shared goals and participating in community-building. It’s what draws all of us to VISIONS. To get specific, we asked why VISIONS Alumni return.
How to Choose a Summer Program
When making plans for summer, there is no shortage of options for you or your teen. There are sleepaway camps, teen tours, sports camps, international programs, and the list goes on. You can easily get lost in a sea of alluring catalogs promising life-changing summers. To help you navigate your options, below are 7 questions to ask when choosing summer programs.
VISIONS Family Tree, a Multigenerational Community
Lauren Maguire joined VISIONS in 1992 and 1993 as a leader for the British Virgin Islands Program. She said that back then, “the idea of my own child attending a Visions program never crossed my mind!” . . . 26 years later, her son heads out on his second VISIONS program. A number of participants from the first years of VISIONS now have children volunteering with us this summer. The VISIONS Family Tree grows . . .
The BVI Wants You to Visit – Here’s Why You Should
Local tourist companies have collaborated to both propel the industry and reward groups that are aiding in the relief process. These companies are currently offering a variety of discounts to families of those involved with volunteer organizations (i.e. VISIONS)...
A Closer Look at VISIONS Foundation
VISIONS Foundation expands upon the work already done by its sister organization, VISIONS Service Adventures, which was one of the first international community service programs for teenagers...