Richmond Vale Academy Trains Volunteers to Make a Positive Impact

Make a Global Impact with Planet Aid and Richmond Vale Academy

At Planet Aid, we deeply care about meaningful and responsible volunteer engagement. That’s why we proudly partner with Richmond Vale Academy (RVA)—a respected nonprofit learning center in St. Vincent and the Grenadines with over 20 years of experience preparing volunteers to work safely, ethically, and effectively in communities around the world.

Through this partnership, RVA delivers the People 2 People Volunteer Program, a transformative 10-month international experience in Malawi and Zambia. Volunteers combine hands-on learning, community-led development projects, and immersive training to make a real, lasting impact—while gaining skills and insights that go far beyond traditional volunteering.

Another Kind of School

RVA isn’t your typical classroom. It’s “Another Kind of School”, built on the philosophy of Learning by Doing. Volunteers live and work alongside a diverse international community, developing teamwork, resilience, and cultural awareness. Here, learning happens through experience—not lectures—with key elements like:

• Community living: fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration
• Educational freedom: encouraging students to take charge of their learning journey
• A safe, substance-free campus: supporting focus, personal growth, and meaningful connections

This immersive environment prepares volunteers for international work, equipping them to thrive and lead in real-world communities.

A Living Model of Sustainability

RVA’s Climate Center brings sustainability to life. Volunteers see how biogas systems turn kitchen waste into cooking fuel, solar panels power the campus, and rainwater harvesting and greywater systems provide essential water for daily needs. Its ecological model farm demonstrates regenerative agriculture, growing fruits and vegetables and raising livestock sustainably.

Beyond its infrastructure, the Climate Center is an active hub for environmental stewardship. Volunteers and students participate in coastal clean-ups, tree planting, and recycling initiatives, collectively removing over 30 tons of waste and inspiring local schools and communities to take action. By combining renewable energy, sustainable farming, water management, and hands-on learning, RVA empowers volunteers to make a tangible difference while discovering practical ways to live more sustainably themselves.

Important Program Deadlines

Applications for the 10-month People to People Volunteer Program are closing soon! Don’t miss your chance to join:

• February 28 – Program starts in April
• August 31 – Program starts in October

Apply early to secure your spot and ensure enough time for preparation and placement

Ready to Make an Impact?
Join the People 2 People Volunteer Program and experience a life-changing journey where learning, service, and sustainability come together. Your adventure starts here!

An Option for Those with Less Time: RVA’s 6-Month Program

Not sure about committing to a full 10 months? Richmond Vale Academy also offers a 6-month volunteer program based entirely in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

This shorter program focuses on climate action and sustainable living, giving volunteers the opportunity to engage in environmental education, ecological home gardening, mangrove planting, and community outreach. Like the 10-month program, it emphasizes hands-on learning, teamwork, and making a measurable impact in local communities. Please note, this program is not eligible for a scholarship. Want to learn more? Schedule a meeting with us to explore your options.

Have questions or want to learn more? Schedule a quick conversation with one of our advisors today.

Whether you’re seeking a life-changing international experience or a shorter-term opportunity to engage in climate action, RVA offers a proven pathway to meaningful service, personal growth, and global impact.