Philippines Service Trip

March 16-24, 2024

Now accepting applications for the 2024 Philippines Service Work Trip!

Apply Today

Applications are due by December 1, 2023 at 4pm.

The Philippines Service Work Trip is an intensive 7 to 12-day community service-learning program designed to introduce students to diverse communities and an array of important social issues. Students conduct projects in partnership with various organizations across the Philippines.

The YMCA is proud to offer spots to 8 deserving cause-driven students for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Additional attendance may be possible. Previous service projects include restoring and improving a school and health and birthing clinics.

Every year, the work performed varies. 2023's highlights include:

• Working side-by-side with college students from Hiroshima and local people in the Philippines

• Interacting with and mentoring children

• Repairing and painting the roof and facility

• Day of sightseeing in Cebu, Philippines

We also make sure that we include some fun and sightseeing on the agenda. Atherton YMCA hopes that this experience leads all of its participants along an exciting new path of service to others and the larger community. Thank you for your interest in our Philippines Work Trip, and we hope you can join us! Limited spots available.

Eligibility

Must be an current student and participant with the Atherton YMCA or staff member of the YMCA of Honolulu.

Destination

Philippines

Dates

March 16-24, 2024 (Option to add on a sightseeing experience March 24-27)

Fees

The estimated cost per participant is $1,600 to $1,800, which includes airfare, ground transportation, accommodations, and most meals and training. If you are offered a spot on the trip, a $500 non-refundable deposit is due by December 30, 2023.

Financial Subsidies

The YMCA of Honolulu may provide between $600 to $800 in financial subsidies depending on the number of students participating. Subsidy awards are based on the student's participation in the Atherton Y's Annual Campaign, which raised funds for these and other community programs. Please note that YMCA staff members are not eligible for subsidies. Fundraising actives are also planned to help defray costs.

Health & Safety

Work assignments normally involve strenuous physical activity. Team members must be in good physical health. Philippines Service Trip team members participate at their own risk.

Meetings, trainings, cultural events and trips

All participants are required to attend and actively participate in planning meetings. Participants are to take a role in service activities and projects. Attendance for all meetings, trainings, and trip preparation are important and required unless excused by the Program Director.

Philippines Service Trip Code of Conduct

1. All participants will exercise good judgment, be aware that their personal actions have consequences, and work to maintain a positive "group dynamic." Everyone will contribute to the group's welfare and will not take unnecessary risks that could jeopardize the success of the program. The program will be physically and mentally challenging and individuals should avoid situations that impair their health and judgment.

2. A "buddy system" will be used while traveling, and on site. Buddies do not have to be room mates, but should be designated in groups of 2 to 4. Students will watch out for one another even during ‘free time’. The directors should be contacted immediately if there is any reason for concern.

3. If someone asks or suggests to a participant that his/her particular behavior is inappropriate, the participant will take the request into consideration. Extremely disruptive behavior will result in dismissal from the group, and the offending individual will be responsible for any additional costs incurred (including airfare back home).

Agreements/Travel Code

I agree to be responsible for paying the entire cost of the trip for the above Philippines Service trip, or the remaining balance. Payments will be made according to the payment schedule.

I understand that the cost of the airplane ticket is non-refundable once tickets have been issued. I understand and agree to pay all costs/fees/deposits associated with the Philippines Service trip in full and on time, if full payment has not been made by the delegated date, I forfeit my plane ticket and all previous payments, and will not be allowed to travel to the Philippines.

I agree to uphold the Philippines Service Trip Group Social Contract (this will be created by the group) and the Philippines Service Trip travel code. I understand that I may be removed from the Philippines Service trip due to the violation of the Social Contract and Travel Code. If this occurs during the spring break component, I may be required to leave the group at the Executive Director’s discretion, and will be responsible for any additional costs incurred (including airfare back home).

I understand and recognize that there exists the possibility and risk of bodily injury to me, or damage to my property while participating in this program, including travel to and from the program site.

I will not possess or use alcohol or other illegal substances while participating in any events sponsored by the program. I understand that any use of alcohol or any misconduct may result in my dismissal from the program with any paid deposits or fees to be forfeited to the YMCA, and any costs for return to Honolulu, Hawaii to be at my expense.

In consideration of the Atherton YMCA for allowing me to participate in this voluntary activity, I hereby release, relieve, and hold harmless the Atherton YMCA, its trustees, officers, employees, and agents from any liability or claim of liability arising out of my participation in the program, including travel to and from the program site/host country.

I am aware that I will be involved in an experience that will be multicultural, may present physical and emotional challenges, and require the highest standards of character and moral behavior. I am prepared for such an experience and will comply with the guidelines provided by our in-country hosts and YMCA staff leaders.