BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
High School Service Program
INTRODUCTION TO SERVICE &
CULTURE IN THE CARIBBEAN
British Virgin Islands 1
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British Virgin Islands 2
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British Virgin Islands 3
July 28 – August 3 | 7 Days
25 Service Hrs | $2,590
“I have done other summer programs, but VISIONS was so much better for me. I’ve never encountered the feeling… and working so closely with local people. I feel it caused a major change in my views.”
Friends Become Family
Within its 8.5 square miles, Virgin Gorda abounds with friends and vibrant landscapes. The proud Caribbean heritage energizes every day of our teen summer programs. VISIONS has worked in the BVI since 1992 and we are deeply ingrained in island culture. You will be welcomed like an old friend—hanging out with project partners and relaxing into island time.
Not only will you get to know some of our local partners, but you’ll be joined by other teens who have come to the BVI to make a difference while immersing in a new culture.
“It was amazing! I had fun doing the work and accomplished a good amount of projects. I loved the recreational activities. The beach and snorkeling were my favorites. I thought it was great. I had so much fun, and I wish I could do it all over again.”
GOING BEYOND
We end work most days around 2 pm and then the afternoons and evenings are filled with activities. We swim, snorkel and do an introductory scuba dive at some stellar reefs. You’ll hike up Gorda Peak, from where you can see almost the entire length of the Virgin Islands archipelago, and take other island hikes. There’s time to explore small markets, take in amazing sunsets and eat traditional foods.
Teen volunteers will participate in our own BVI Olympics and swim at the island’s famous batholiths, which are giant boulders created by volcanic eruptions and known as “The Baths.” There’s a lot to pack in, but we do our best and you won’t be disappointed by what Virgin Gorda has to offer.
ACTIVITIES AND EXCURSIONS
- Scuba Dive At Incredible Reefs (9-day programs)
- Guided Tour & Snorkeling At Mangroves
- Swim At The Baths Volcanic Rock Pools
- Explore The Abandoned Coastal Copper Mine
- Hike To Scenic Outlooks, Gorda Peak & 99 Steps
“Not only did the work projects make me feel immensely proud but also learning about the beautiful island around me was life-changing.”
Service Matters
Your work in the BVI will include carpentry and maintenance projects at local schools that need assistance, as well as making improvements to local parks and a community center. We also work with children at an educational day camp and assist with animal welfare when the opportunity arises.
There are multiple worksites on each of the work days, and you’ll be able to experience them all.
On a hilltop in what’s known as “The Valley” of Virgin Gorda, we make our home. Island breezes keep us cool and we eat our meals outside on picnic tables. Most destinations are walkable, which also allows us to interact with folks while en route to projects or the nearby beach. We also load up in vehicles to explore near and far across the island, taking in views and starting to see familiar faces along the way.
Read more about our BVI home away from home and also check out images from our photo gallery.