Cactus Volunteers Abroad works in conjunction with i-to-i, and places paying volunteers in a number of short-term volunteer positions throughout the world. Teaching English is a frequent component – as many volunteers speak English and people in a wide variety of situations world wide feel learning English will improve their lives, often in connection to job prospects.

Possible projects include:

Caring for children at different children’s homes in Cambodia; this includes teaching English and computer skills for part of the day, and either preparing lessons for the next day or helping out at the home in the other part of the day. Volunteers receive i-to-i’s online TEFL training at no additional charge. The cost of the program is $995 for three weeks (the minimum) - and $265 for additional weeks (up to 12), and shared accommodation in a guest house is included. Volunteers need to take care of their own food and insurance costs.

Also: iguana preservation in Honduras; there are many projects and tasks will vary, but “Typical activities include feeding the iguanas and talking to school children about them and their environment to helping construct new cages to research and data gathering.” In many of the projects, accommodation is in dormitory style huts and is shared with other volunteers; facilities may be basic, such as intermittent electricity and limited hot showers. The cost is $1730 for four weeks, and $245 for additional weeks, up to 12.

Other features of the site include advice on preparation - including language tips - and past volunteer feedback and contact info.