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Asia Africa Latin America

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Brazil Costa Rica Ecuador Ghana Guatemala Kenya Nepal Peru Tanzania Uruguay Zanzibar

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INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER TRAVEL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

This Volunteer Services Agreement is a legally binding contract which sets forth all of the terms and conditions of Your agreement with International Volunteer Travel, LLC. As part of Your application process, You are required to verify and affirm that You have read and thoroughly reviewed this contract and that You understand, entirely accept and agree to be bound by all of its terms. All services and volunteer arrangements provided by or through International Volunteer Travel, LLC are subject to this contract and Your completion of an application and/or corresponding remittance of any payment to International Volunteer Travel, LLC confirms your contractually binding agreement to all of the terms and conditions of this contract. This document, including any referenced exhibits hereto, is the sole source of any obligations and/or services to be provided by International Volunteer Travel LLC and therefore no oral or other communications or documents regarding the substance of this agreement are relevant or binding upon International Volunteer Travel, LLC. You should retain legal counsel to assist you if you do not fully understand any provision included in this document.

1. Definitions

This Agreement includes certain key terms that are specifically defined in the Definitions that follow. Other defined terms may be included in body of the Agreement. Defined terms shall have the meaning and intent respectively defined below:

"Agreement" shall mean this Volunteer Services Agreement between You, as the Applicant, and International Volunteer Travel, LLC, including the Placement Sheet and any other written exhibits that may be referenced herein and/or attached to this document.

"Applicant" shall mean the specific person identified on the Placement Sheet that enters into this Agreement with International Volunteer Travel, LLC and may generally be used interchangeably with "You", "Your" or "Client" when possessively referring to You.

"IVT" shall mean International Volunteer Travel, LLC, and may generally be used interchangeably with "We" or "Us" or "Our" or "Company" when possessively referring to Us.

"Host Country" shall mean the Country in which Applicant is placed to perform volunteer services.

"Host Country Partners" shall mean the various persons, entities and/or organizations located within the respective Host Countries that have entered into an arrangement, relationship and/or contractual agreement with IVT and thereby generally agreed, subject to certain restrictions, to accept IVT Participants and allow the Participants to provide volunteer services in connection with Projects being conducted within the Host Country.

"Host Family" shall mean the person(s) in the Host Country who provide living accommodations and meals to Participants during the Project, but may occasionally also include the management and residents of a hostel or similar accommodation.

"Host Home" shall mean the residence or abode of the Host Family where Participants are accommodated during the Project, but may occasionally also include a hostel or similar accommodation.

"Participants" shall collectively refer to persons that have volunteered services pursuant to an agreement entered into with IVT and generally includes the Applicant.

"Placement" shall mean the general process of placing Participants in a particular services Project located within a Host Country.

"Program Fees" shall mean the applicable fees to be paid to IVT by Applicant as identified in the Placement Sheet.

"Project" shall refer to a general area of work such as teaching or medical work, and shall mean the venture and/or activity for which a Participant is engaged and selected to provide volunteer services, as further specified in the Placement Sheet. In this regard a "Specific Project" shall mean particular Project such as a specific school.

"Project Period" shall mean the length of time for which a Participant is scheduled to work in the Host Country in completion of the Project, as more fully specified in the Placement Sheet and begins the day after the scheduled arrival day.

"Project Staff" shall mean the directors, managers, employees, representatives and/or other agents that are responsible for or otherwise in charge of the specific Project for which Applicant is providing volunteer services hereunder.

"Placement Sheet" shall mean the document to be included as an exhibit/addendum to this Agreement which contains the specific terms of Applicant's Placement, including a description of the Project, the Project Period, the applicable Program Fees to be paid by Applicant and any similar information and supplemental contractual terms and obligations specific to Applicant.

"Country Coordinator(s)" means the person(s) in the Host Country who organize and coordinate Placements of Participants.

"Placement Coordinators" shall mean the respective entities and organizations located within each Host Country that generally coordinate and organize relief and volunteer services and primarily decide which Projects within their Host Country require the volunteer services to be provided by Participants.

2. Services Provided by IVT

2.1 Placement of Participants. In consideration of Your payment of the Program Fees identified in the Placement Sheet and the volunteer services to be provided by You pursuant to this Agreement, IVT agrees to arrange a volunteer Project in a Host Country for which You shall provide volunteer services during the duration of the Project Period. Additional terms of the Project and the volunteer services to be provided by You are provided in the Placement Sheet. IVT is not obligated to perform any other services for or on behalf of You other than those specific services identified in this Section 2. Unless specifically provided otherwise in this Agreement, You shall remain solely responsible for paying any and all costs and expenses related to your participation in any Project and/or Placement.

2.2 Internship Program (applicable only to Interns in IVT Internship Program). IVT offers a volunteer internship program in collaboration with local projects, institutes, and NGOs (non-governmental organizations). The internship program is not available to all Participants and is only available to specific Participants that apply as an intern as part of IVT's internship program. In most of these cases, the Country Coordinator or the director of the Project serves as a supervisor of a Participant's internship project. It is the intern's responsibility to develop his or her Project in collaboration with local supervisors. Many times, the Participant's expectations and the local Project conditions, including the nature and extent of the supervision, may be different, so it is Your responsibility to make sure that everything is acceptable before You join the Project.

2.3 Placement Arrangements. IVT will review and research Your Placement requests and attempt to reasonably match Your personal interests or preferences with the list of Projects made available to Us through the Placement Coordinators. Since Placement Coordinators control all Placements and corresponding Projects, IVT has no control over which Placements and/or Projects are available and which Participants are actually accepted by the Placement Coordinators and/or Project Staff for a specific Project. As a result, You are required to be flexible with regard to Placements and the specific Project that is ultimately selected and approved.

2.3.1 Project Selection. If, after Your arrival in the Host Country, You are dissatisfied with Your Project, IVT will likely be unable to find an alternative Project for You in a timely manner, and even when an alternative project is found this could take weeks; however, the Country Coordinator will work with You and the Placement Coordinator to try to resolve any difficulties as quickly as practicable. IVT is not obligated to find an alternative Project if You are simply dissatisfied with the Project selected for You and identified in the Placement Sheet. You agree that if You are dissatisfied with Your Project, and a new Project is found for You, You will meet the cost of Your relocation to the new Project.

2.3.2 Placement and Project Variance and Change. In some cases, within the Project Period, the actual Placement or Project may differ somewhat from the Placements and/or Projects described on Our website or in any related literature. Also, on many occasions, Project Staff may request You to assist with additional jobs or services that are related to the assigned Project and You shall do so. If, within the Project Period, a Project terminates or circumstances different from what is indicated in subsection 2.3.1, require the Country Coordinator to move You from one Project to another within the same Host Country, the Country Coordinator will arrange transportation from Your old Project to Your new Project and IVT will advise You of this change as soon as is practicable. You agree that in some cases the new Project may not exactly match Your preference and that You may be moved to a different Project including but not limited to your next choice as indicated in Your application.

2.4 Country Coordinators. Country Coordinators are available in each Host Country. The Country Coordinator serves as the primary contact for the You in the Host Country during the Project Period. The primary purpose of the Country Coordinator is to welcome You to the Host Country and to assist You in getting situated to complete the Project. Specifically, the Country Coordinator will, during the Project Period, assist You with: (i) arranging Your reception in the Host Country including airport meet and greet when possible; (ii) arranging for room and board in the Host Country with the Host Family or hostel; (iii) orientation for the Host Country, its culture, the Host Family, general safety precautions, and related issues; (iv) introductions of You to the Host Family and, when reasonably possible, the Project Staff; and (v) offer emergency help or support as needed and as reasonably possible. Once You are introduced to the Host Family, the Country Coordinator will periodically contact You, usually in 2-4 week intervals, to ensure that the Project is proceeding satisfactorily.

2.5 Reception and Exit. You agree, understand and acknowledge that most Country Coordinators do not schedule activities for the arrival day and You will plan to spend the day on Your own. You hereby agree that You are solely responsible for arranging Your own accommodations and meals, at Your sole expense, if You arrive early or stay after the Project Period. You understand that arrival after the scheduled arrival day is likely to cause Us and/or the Country Coordinator to incur extra expenses to fit You in the program. You agree that should You arrive or plan to arrive after the scheduled arrival day, You shall pay Us a non-refundable surcharge of $100.00 to defray such expenses. You agree that the same shall apply should You choose to begin the program before the designated beginning of the Project Period. You understand and agree that the cost of transporting You to the airport at the conclusion of the Project Period is solely Your responsibility and is not covered by the Program Fees.

2.5.1 Airport Reception. The Country Coordinator or an other representative will pick You up from the designated airport (as specified in the Placement Sheet) in the Host Country subject to section subsection 2.5.2 and section 3 below, if You timely inform Us and the Country Coordinator of your flight schedule, in writing, at least four weeks in advance of Your arrival in the Host Country. Unfortunately, travel delays in developing countries are a common occurrence. If, due to unforeseen circumstances, the Country Coordinator or representative fails to show up within one (1) hour of Your scheduled arrival, You will call the Country Coordinator for instructions and if You are unable to reach the Country Coordinator within three (3) hours of Your scheduled arrival, You will travel to the local contact (or nearby) hotel and call the Country Coordinator from there. IVT will reimburse You for the cost of traveling to the hotel and accommodation (up to a maximum of USD$40) upon Your furnishing of receipts to the Country Coordinator and subject to Your following these instructions. If Your flight is delayed or otherwise changed, You will travel to the local contact hotel and call the Country Coordinator from there. You will bear the cost of traveling to the hotel and IVT will reimburse You for the cost of accommodation up to a maximum of USD$20, upon Your furnishing of a travel receipt to the Country Coordinator.

You hereby agree that for the purpose of accommodation on the scheduled arrival day, the contact hotel may be a local economy hotel, hostel or host home and You shall be responsible for all Your meals during the scheduled arrival day. You understand and hereby agree that you may choose to stay in a different hotel than the contact hotel provided by the Coordinator and that if You do so You shall be responsible for such accommodation and Your travel from the hotel to the place that the Coordinator designates as a meeting place for the purpose of starting You on the program.

2.5.2. Out of Airport Reception. You agree, understand and acknowledge that in rare circumstances, the Project is located a significant distance from the Airport and/or office of the Country Coordinator and in such an event, the Country Coordinator will not be available to meet You at the airport and/or accompany You to Your Project and will be limited to providing You with guides and/or instructions and it will be Your sole responsibility to travel to the Project at no cost to IVT or the Country Coordinator. You hereby agree, understand and acknowledge that if Your Host Country is Brazil, Guatemala, or Uruguay You will presume this to be the case and organize to act accordingly.

You hereby agree that even where airport reception is provided, should You choose to be picked up at a place other than the designated airport the Country Coordinator may pick You up at Your expense, or give You directions to make Your own arrangements to travel to the designated meeting place at Your own expense.

2.6 Host Family. IVT arranges for a Host Family to provide living accommodations and meals for You during the Project Period. In terms of accommodations and meals, IVT assumes no responsibility beyond arranging for the Host Family to provide such services to You.

2.6.1 Accommodations. Accommodations vary among countries and regions and may also depend upon local conditions, the specific Project, or different programs. The accommodations will be basic to moderate but will vary depending upon the country and location within the country. Hygienic conditions for bathroom, toilet and related living facilities are often below western standards and are very primitive in many developing countries.

In most cases, the accommodations provided to You through the Host Family will consist of a separate bedroom, a shared lounge area, a shared bath room, and accessible toilets. However, depending on the exact situation, You may be required to share a bedroom in the Host Family's home with other Participants.

Any accommodation provided as part of a Placement is intended solely for use by Participant. No visitors of any Participant are permitted to make any use of any accommodations or meals provided by the Host Family.

If You choose to spend time away from the accommodations provided during the arrival day or the Project Period, such as on an overnight trip that You organize, You do so at Your own cost and neither IVT nor the Host Family will refund or reimburse You for accommodation costs incurred by You during time spent away from the Host Home or other provided accommodation.

2.6.2 Meals. Through the Host Family, You are provided local foods, two to three times per day, for each day during the Project Period. The Host Family typically serves a family meal for all to eat and does not serve separate meals for You and/or each individual Participant. In certain circumstances, You may wish to supplement the provided meals with food purchased by You, particularly if You prefer a western diet. In such cases, You may wish to account for this contingency in Your personal finances and budget. Upon request, the Host Family will also provide water for drinking and brushing teeth. The Host Family does not provide any mineral water, special diets or other beverage types. If You have a special or unique diet, You may contact the Country Coordinator and request assistance and the Country Coordinator may attempt to assist You but neither IVT nor the Host Family has any obligation to assist You with special dietary needs. If You require any additional dietary or other supplements to the meals provided through the Host Family, You must make such arrangements as You deem necessary at Your own personal expense. All meals provided during the Project Period are provided exclusively through the Host Family so You are solely responsible for all meals while away from the Host Home. No refund or other reimbursement is available if You decide to spend time away from the Host Home during the Project Period.

2.7 Allocation of Fees. IVT offers it programs through of local staff members, coordinators, or host organizations.  IVT pays an administrative fee and a weekly fee to these parties to arrange a number of services  (airport receive/pick-up, transfer, selection of host family, Project placement, Project support, living accommodations, meals). IVT has no control over the allocation of fees. IVT does not know how fees are  allocated by local partners or coordinators for salaries, office spaces, rent, utilities, communications, taxes, staff members, vehicles, airport receive/pick-up, transfer, host families, living accommodations,  meals, and/or donations.  IVT does not guarantee any particular level of donation to host projects and payments to host families.

2.8 Travel Insurance. IVT works with insurance providers to offer travel insurance to its Participants with coverage available during the entire duration of the Project Period. You agree, acknowledge and understand that IVT is not an insurance provider and only assists You to access travel insurance offered by insurance provider. Please contact Us for details of benefits of the insurance.

2.9 Restrictions for Rural Areas. Most modern conveniences and services such as local telephone and Internet assess are not available for Placements in rural areas of most Host Countries. However, IVT will try to reasonably locate any such services, within the limitations of the Host Country.

2.10 Working Visas. IVT generally does not provide or make other arrangements for issuance of working visas, particularly since most Placements are strictly for voluntary services only.

2.11 Web Information. Information provided on IVT Crossroad's website is generic in nature. IVT Crossroad works with hundreds of local projects while offering volunteer abroad programs. The nature of these programs varies from location to location and from time to time. Therefore, IVT Crossroad does not guarantee complete accuracy of the information contained on the website. Volunteers agree to further verify all information prior to departure.

3. Responsibilities of Applicant

3.1 Payment of Program Fees. In consideration for IVT's services in planning and arranging Your Placement and/or Program, You hereby agree to timely pay to IVT all of the Program Fees listed in the Placement Sheet, as more particularly provided therein. Participants submitting late applications or requiring expedited placements or date changes may be assessed an additional fee.

3.2 Placements and Projects. You hereby agree to be open and flexible in accepting Placements and/or Projects within the top two Host Countries indicated as Your preference in Your application and You agree, understand and acknowledge that IVT has relied upon Your agreement to be flexible in accepting Your Placement and/or Project.

If, prior to Your arrival in the Host Country You are dissatisfied with the Placement and/or Project selected for You or for unforeseen reasons the Placement and/or Project is no longer available and a Placement and/or Project change is necessary, IVT will attempt to find an alternative Placement and/or Project within the two Host Countries. If IVT is unable to confirm an alternative Placement and/or Project or You are dissatisfied with the alternative Placement and/or Project selected for You, You are entitled to cancellation of this Agreement and a Placement Exchange, or refund of Program Fees pursuant to section 5 below.

3.2.1 Developing Countries. You understand acknowledge and agree that Our Placements and Projects are mainly in poor and developing countries including, Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Ghana, Guatemala, Kenya, Nepal, Peru, Tanzania, and Uruguay. Due to the fact that these countries are poor and generally limited to primitive goods, services and resources, You agree, understand and acknowledge that You will not be provided and shall not expect to receive luxurious, superior or western style accommodations and/or meals during the Project Period in a Host Country that is a developing or poor country. You further agree, understand and acknowledge that the living accommodations and meals in such developing countries will be minimal and basic. Developing countries obviously have great needs but very limited resources. As a result, You hereby agree that Placements and Projects in developing countries can not and shall not be held to the same standards as similar Placements and Projects in developed countries. You agree that You shall not request any Placement and/or Project in a developing Host Country unless You have a thorough understanding of what to expect in regard to circumstances, accommodations, meals and likely Project challenges.

3.3 Applicant Information. You hereby authorize IVT to collect and retain personal information about You in connection with Your application with Us and You agree to provide additional information about You as requested by IVT. Such information to be collected and considered by IVT in reviewing Your application includes, but is not limited to, references, employment history, health history and medical information, social security and driver's license numbers, current and previous mailing addresses, criminal background check and family members. You agree, understand and acknowledge that IVT may use Your personal information in Our promotion materials (such as newsletter) or share Your personal information with the Project Staff, Placement Coordinators, insurance agencies, Host Family and similar persons or entities in connection with possible Placements and/or Projects for You.

3.3.1 Termination of Application. If IVT should determine, in Our sole discretion, that You are unsuitable for Placement in Our Programs, You agree that IVT may terminate Your application request by notifying You of the termination. Upon any such termination, You agree that You are only entitled to any refunds that may be specifically required pursuant to section 5 of this Agreement but excluding Exchange of Project.

3.4 Performance of Volunteer Services for Project. For the entire duration of the Project Period, You hereby agree that You shall provide voluntary employment services in connection with the Project, as requested and directed from time-to-time by the Project Staff. You hereby agree to join Your Project on the correct date and to continue work on the Project throughout the duration of the Project Period.

3.5 Respect and Adhere to Local Culture, Customs, and Laws. Host Countries in our Program constitute lands of cultural wonders and these countries cherish and staunchly protect their traditional cultures, where values, thinking, dressing, and daily activities are very different from western culture. It is Your responsibility to understand and follow the local culture, customs and laws during Your entire stay in the Host Country. You agree to dress and carry Yourself appropriately, respecting the culture of your Host Country and Host Family.

3.6 Project Rules and Requirements. In addition to the contractual requirements imposed upon You in this Agreement and the applicable laws of the Host Country, You are required to follow and adhere to any specific rules and/or requirements established by the Placement Coordinators for the applicable Host Country and any rules and/or requirements applicable to the specific Project. Please contact Us if You are concerned about any rules and/or regulations of Placement Coordinators and/or Project Staff or if You wish to read on any such rules and/or regulations prior to executing this Agreement.

3.7 Compliance with Host Family Rules. Host Families in developing countries can be very sensitive to cultural differences and it is Your responsibility to discuss cultural issues with the Country Coordinator and/or Host Family. You agree to respect the culture and follow the rules of the Host Family.

3.7.1 Visitors. If You would like to bring a friend for a night or brief visit, You must first get permission from the Host Family. However, opposite genders are not allowed to stay in a room together unless You are a married couple.

3.7.2 Valuables. You agree and acknowledge that You will not leave any valuable belongings unattended or in any room without a lock and that IVT is not responsible, under any and all circumstances, for any damaged, lost or stolen items.

3.7.3 Personal Care. You agree that it is Your responsibility to clean Your own room, clothes, and personal use items during the Project Period and to bring any necessary sleeping bags or other accessories needed for personal use during Your stay with the Host Family. You further agree that You may not and will not use any personal belongings of the Host Family such as detergent, TV, telephone, Air Conditioner or any other facilities without prior permission. For any such use, You agree to separately pay for these products and services and acknowledge that the Program Fees fee do not cover any such items.

3.8 Contacting the Country Coordinator. You are required to contact the Country Coordinator and inform him or her of Your arrival and provide a carbon copy of such contact to Us. You are required to ensure that the Country Coordinator acknowledges and responds to Your message.

3.9 Contact Information. You agree that it shall be Your sole responsibility to retain and carry with You any and all necessary contact information, including the address and telephone number of the contact hotel and the Country Coordinator so that You may contact them in the event any need should arise.

3.10 Responsibility for Program Acceptance. You agree that it is ultimately Your responsibility to make sure that the assigned Project is the best Project for You and Your needs.

3.11 Additional Information. You are responsible for contacting IVT to request any additional Project or Host Family information that You may need prior to accepting a Project and/or leaving for Your Host Country. You also agree, understand and acknowledge that You are solely responsible for thoroughly researching the Host Country and Project selected for You, including contacting other Participants who have already worked in a particular Host Country or Project, to satisfy any and all of Your information needs before You pay the applicable Program Fees.

3.12 Responsibility for Travel. You agree, understand and acknowledge that You will be solely responsible for arranging and paying for Your own travel, specifically including all airfare to and from the Host Country and local transportation. It is Your responsibility to carry all necessary documents while you travel overseas. You agree that IVT shall not be responsible for any supporting documents necessary for Your travel needs or other purposes. You agree that IVT is not responsible for any airfare or for any other charges that may result from canceling, changing or transferring flights or other arrangements which may result or occur as a result of Your Placement and/or Project being revised, cancelled, terminated or otherwise modified due to Force Majeure and/or any event and/or circumstances outside IVT's control.

IVT does not cover any of Your travel to Our local contact office. Program Fees do not cover in-country transportation, unless expressly listed in the Project description (such as adventure tours or portions of the language and culture programs).

3.13 Personal Expenses. You agree, understand and acknowledge that You are solely responsible for all of Your personal expenses during your Placement, which includes but is not limited to the cost of daily transportation to and from Your Host Family accommodations and Your Project.

3.14. Wildlife Volunteers Program (except where expressly this subsection is applicable only to participants applying for Wildlife Volunteers Programs). Participating in the Wildlife Project involves some level of risk of injury, up to and including death of the volunteer participant. Wildlife Project Volunteers will come into contact with wild animals that can act unpredictably and may be capable of inflicting serious bodily injury upon humans. Wildlife Project Volunteers are to presume all animals they come into contact with as a result of their participation in the Wildlife Project are wild animals and as such dangerous. Wildlife Project Volunteers must treat all these animals even when they are said to be tame, as wild and dangerous at all times. Should a volunteer have any questions about what conduct is appropriate when dealing with wild animals and/or any specific animals they may encounter in the Wildlife Project they should direct such questions to the local partner on their project. Further, due to the nature of the Wildlife Project volunteers can be exposed to additional hazards in addition to those associated with dealing with wild animals. While our local partner takes every precaution to ensure the safety of volunteers participating the Wildlife Project you undertake all programs and associated expeditions entirely at your own risk. Considering the nature of the Wildlife Project volunteers assume all risks of injury, up to and including death, property damage, and any and all other losses and damages whatsoever that may result from their participation in the Wildlife Project, and all volunteers agree that IVT shall not be liable for any and all injury, up to and including death, damage to property, and/or any and all other loss or damages resulting from the volunteers participation in the Wildlife Project. Further, the volunteers participating in the Wildlife Project agree that the above shall be binding upon the participant's dependants, heirs, legatees, estate, executors, administrators, and assigns.  The volunteer, and his/her dependents, heirs, executors, administrators or assigns through the volunteers agreement to participate in the Wildlife Project, hereby agree to indemnify and hold harmless IVT, its members, managers, employees, representatives, assigns, and agents from any claims of whatsoever nature and from any liability for delay, loss, damage, injury, property damage, illness, death, or any and all other damages or losses arising from any cause whatsoever out of events related to, occurring, or in any and all other way connected to the participants involvement in the Wildlife Project.

3.15 Insurance. You are solely responsible for evaluating and determining the type, extent and levels of any insurance coverage You may need or desire during the Project Period, including, without limitation, coverage for: light work; the cost of cancellation of the Placement by You; the cost of assistance including repatriation in the event of accident or illness; legal liability and expenses; lost baggage; cancelled flights; medical expenses; kidnapping; liability arising due to personal injury to You or a third party; and cancellation of your Placement for any other reason. In addition, You agree, understand and acknowledge that You are solely responsible for reviewing the travel insurance provided by IVT pursuant to subsection 2.8 above and determining whether such coverage adequately and appropriately serves Your needs, including nature, scope and claim processing procedures. If You determine that the travel insurance provided through IVT is insufficient to accommodate Your insurance needs, You are solely responsible for arranging and paying for suitable additional insurance coverage. You are also solely responsible for maintaining any necessary insurance documents with You as may be needed to prove any insurance coverage available to You. You are solely responsible for making and following up on any claims with the insurance provider.

3.16 Prohibition Against Direct Contact. You agree, understand and acknowledge that IVT has invested considerable resources in securing Your Placement and/or Project. As a consequence, You agree that You shall not directly contact any Placement Coordinator, Project Staff, Activity Coordinator, or any other similar contact or resource provided or otherwise disclosed to You by IVT and You agree that You shall not, under any circumstances, directly enter into any services arrangement with any such person or entity without IVT's prior written approval that conflicts with any of Your obligations hereunder to IVT. You also agree that You shall not contact the Country Coordinator for the purpose of shifting Your Placement from IVT to any other entity. In the event of any breach by You of this subsection 3.16, You agree that You shall remain fully obligated to pay IVT for all Program Fees provided in the Placement Sheet and You also automatically waive and forfeit any and all rights to reimbursement provided in section 5 of the Agreement.

3.17 Personal Liability. You agree that You are and shall remain personally and solely liable for Your conduct, actions and/or omissions within the Host Country, including, without limitation, any damages You and/or Your guests may cause: (i) to the Host Family and/or accommodations provided by the Host Family; (ii) to the Project Staff and/or the Project; and (iii) any person, entity, or property located within the Host Country.

3.18 Project Facilities. You agree that You shall not make any personal use of any Project facilities (for example, a school's swimming pool, sports facilities, computer or internet) without the prior consent of the Project Staff.

3.19 Passports. You agree that You are solely responsible for ensuring that You have and maintain a valid passport that is acceptable to the immigration authorities of the Host Country of Your Placement and which will remain valid for the duration of the Project Period and for a period of at least 3 months after the termination of the Project Period.

3.20 Responsibility for Immunizations and Medical Conditions. You agree that it is and shall remain Your sole responsibility to ensure that You have taken appropriate medical advice from your doctor with respect to the Host Country in which you will be working, and that you have received all of the appropriate inoculations, immunizations and medical treatments with respect to the Host Country in which You will be placed within the appropriate period of time prior to Your arrival within the Host Country. In addition, You agree that you are solely responsible for bringing with You and maintaining any necessary/recommended medications or medical equipment (such as syringes, water sterilization tablets, mosquito netting and malaria tablets). You also agree to take reasonable steps to keep Yourself in good health by taking any such medications and not taking part in any high risk activities during your Placement which could compromise Your health.

3.20.1 Medical Disclosures. You agree that You will fully disclosed to Us any and all medical conditions and health issues that are relevant to Your Placement before departure and Your work with any Project. You agree that if You provide any incorrect or false information to us, You will be solely responsible for any results and/or legal consequences under the laws of the respective Host Country and/or the United States. If You have given any incorrect or false information about Your medical or mental health conditions, You will be removed from the program immediately and You agree that You automatically waive and forfeit any right to any reimbursements otherwise payable pursuant to section 5 hereof.

3.20.2 Special Medical Needs. If You have any special medical needs or conditions or if You need special help, You agree to inform Us in writing, at least sixty days prior to Your departure for the Host Country. Medical facilities are limited in developing countries so You are solely responsible for verifying that any medical treatments and/or facilities that You need or anticipate needing to accommodate Your medical needs are available in the Host Country and accessible from Your Project and Host Home.

3.21 Food and Water in Developing Countries. Water and food safety and sanitation in developing countries is not nearly as regulated in developing countries as it is in developed countries. As a consequence, tap water and local foods from smaller restaurants and food vendors is much more likely to be polluted, contaminated or contain impurities that could be harmful if ingested. Any consumption of tap water, without boiling it first, or eating foods from roadside vendors or similar sources may result in diarrhea or more serious ailments. For theses reasons, You agree that You are solely responsible for avoiding the consumption of tap water and avoiding foods from roadside vendors and/or cheap restaurants.

3.22 Travel Advisories. It is Your sole responsibility to investigate and adhere to any travel warnings from Your governmental agencies. You agree that IVT shall bear no obligation or responsibility whatsoever for any liability resulting from Your failure to follow any travel advisories. You hereby agree that You are solely responsible and do hereby assume all personal risks of traveling to and working in any Host Country.

3.23 Visas. In all cases, a visa is required for entering any Host Country to provide volunteer services. You agree, understand and acknowledge that You are solely responsible for arranging, obtaining and/or extending Your visa, including payment of any and all fees associated with Your visa.

3.23.1 Visa Restrictions. You acknowledge that many countries unfortunately do not offer visas specifically for volunteers and work permits are often very difficult or impossible to obtain, particularly for developing and poor Host Countries where Our Programs are located. Accordingly, many volunteers choose to enter certain Host Countries on a tourist visa. You acknowledge that, technically, You may not be authorized to work in that Host Country on a tourist visa, either with or without pay, but it may be the only way that You are allowed into the Host Country and many Host Countries are tolerant of volunteers who are present on tourist visas. However, there is no guarantee that this will remain the position in any particular Host Country and You therefore agree, understand and acknowledge that there is a risk that You could have problems with local immigration authorities, particularly if You are offered and accept any form of payment for Your volunteer services. As a consequence, You agree that if You are not prepared to accept these associated risks, You will only select a Placement in a Host Country where volunteer visas or work permits are readily available. Prior to Your selection of desired Placements, IVT can, upon request, provide You with more information on those Host Countries. You agree that You are solely responsible for ensuring that You have obtained a visa that is appropriate for You in the circumstances explained above and for the costs of obtaining such a visa.

3.23.2 Visa Complications. In the event that Your Placement has to be cancelled or significantly curtailed due to the immigration authorities not accepting Your visa as adequate in the circumstances set out above, We will use reasonable efforts to try to find a Placement for You in an alternative Host Country without extra charge, but You agree, understand and acknowledge that You are not entitled to any refund of any payments and/or Program Fees. If We are able to offer You an alternative Placement, You will be solely responsible for all costs and expenses involved in traveling to and from the Host Countries. If We are unable to locate an alternative Placement, You agree that You shall remain solely responsible for all costs of Your return from Your original Placement.

3.24 Prohibited Activities. You agree that You shall not engage in any missionary activities (subject to subsection 3.25 hereof), criminal activities, illegal drug use or trafficking, interactions with terrorist groups, or any political activities. You agree that You will not travel alone after dark or engage in any other reckless or negligent conduct that could impact your welfare or safety such as alcohol abuse or ingesting any other drugs. You further agree that You will not swim in any open rivers or local lakes or travel alone in dense forest or isolated areas where you are likely to get lost. You agree that You will not drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes inside IVT office/premises or Country Coordinator's or Project facility or Host Home. You also agree that You will not engage in any sexual or other activities which may be offensive to local culture and custom of Host Family. You also agree to respect the privacy and welfare of other volunteers living in the same Host Home. You agree that failure to obey any of the above conditions will lead to immediate cancellation of your involvement in the Project and removal from the Host Home and You hereby forfeit and waive any rights to any reimbursement that may otherwise be provided in section 5 hereof.

3.25. Missionary Activity. You agree, understand and acknowledge that in many poor and developing countries involvement in Missionary Activity is likely to be dangerous. You agree that You will not indulge in Missionary Activity except where You have expressly signed up for the same and that even then You will solely be responsible for any and all risk associated or resulting from Missionary Activity.

3.26 Resolution of Complaints. It is Your responsibility to first try to resolve any complaints through dialogue with the party involved including Host Family, Project Staff or the Country Coordinator before contacting IVT. However, if the problem cannot or is not solved locally, You shall contact IVT immediately. IVT will contact the Country Coordinator and any other parties involved in the resolution of the matter.

3.26.1. You agree that Programs we offer are not a guided tour. You agree that the program and travel itineraries are mere samples and are likely to change. You agree to be patient and flexible.

3.26.2. IVT program has some limitations in its ability to control certain matters (clearly given in your pre-departure and supplement booklets) related to developing countries, host families, projects, and the overall program. You agree that such matters are outside the control of IVT and therefore you accept the risk that such matters can occur and release IVT from any and all liability/responsibility regarding such matters; 

3.26.3 You agree to first attempt to resolve Your complaints or problem with the local project staff members, host family, and coordinators. You agree that numerous, minor issues can be resolved through patience, flexibility, respect, and negotiation. You agree to only contact IVT Crossroad if the problem is not able to be solved locally.

3.26.4. You agree that IVT pays funds (for accommodations, meals, insurance, etc.) in advance and is not able to have these funds returned to IVT once payment has been remitted. Therefore, IVT is not able to refund these funds to you.  You understand the limitations of refunding and the importance of solving Your issues locally. You understand and agree that full refund is impossible.

3.26.5.  In the event you fail to attempt to resolve your complaint or problem first with the Host Family, Project Staff or Country Coordinator before contacting IVT you agree that Your claim for a refund will not be valid and you will not receive any refund whatsoever.  

3.27 For the general complaints you agree to follow the following complaints management steps

Submit Written Complaints: All complaints that are submitted to IVT must be submitted in writing and signed by You, which shall be deemed to constitute a representation by You that all statements contained in the complaint are true and correct. IVT does not accept complaints submitted by email. While submitting complaints You agree not to complain about the limitations of IVT program and services we never promised (our services, limitation of programs, and Your responsibilities are explicitly given in many sub sections of this Agreement.
Country Coordinator's reply: Once we receive your written signed complaints, IVT will forward it to Country Coordinator for response. IVT may also collect information to verify your complaints from Project Staff (where you worked), Host Family, Project Management, and relevant witnesses.
Verification and Decision: Upon collection of all information about your complaints from Host Country, IVT will fairly analyze your complaints and make a decision. While making verification, We carefully analyze the facts, our promised services, and whether You violated the terms and conditions
Refund: If IVT concludes that We failed to offer the promised services, We will give a partial refund after deducting the actual cost incurred on you. However, no refund will be made if we determine Your complaints are not true, are biased, or fabricated, or You ignore Placement and/or Country Coordinator's sound advise or warning or violated terms and conditions or ignore limitation of Our program (outlined in many subsections of this Agreement).
Time Period: completion of all complaints verification, analysis, decision, and refund (if warranted) generally takes 60-90 days.

4. Program Fees and Application Procedure

4.1 Payment of Deposit and Program Fees. In consideration for IVT's services in planning and arranging a Placement and Program for You, You agree that You shall timely pay to IVT the nonrefundable deposit and all Program Fees listed in the Placement Sheet.

4.2 Nonrefundable Deposit. Upon completion of Your initial application form, You shall pay a nonrefundable deposit to IVT in the amount of US$ 349.00. This deposit is not part of the Program Fees and shall be, in all cases, nonrefundable.

4.3 Application Procedures. Upon receipt of Your initial application and deposit, We will send You a welcome pack, which includes confirmation of Your application form and a Placement Sheet, which includes a schedule identifying the details of the deposit that You have paid Us and the deadline for Your payment to Us of the Program Fees or balance of the same. You will be advised of Your confirmed Placement and Project as soon as reasonably possible. You must then submit the complete Travel Documentation by the specified date pursuant to the instructions included in the welcome pack.

4.4 Payment of Balance of Program Fees. You hereby agree to pay to Us the remaining balance of the Program Fees at least 90 days prior to Your scheduled arrival date of Your Placement, or at the time of application if you apply in less than 90 days from the proposed start date.

4.5 Confirmation of Placement. We will provide You with the final details of Your Placement not less than 7 days before your Placement start date. We cannot and do not guarantee the complete accuracy of the final details of Your Placement since the Country Coordinator and/or Project Staff is responsible for Your placement may occasionally make changes to these details including changing the Specific Project prior to Your arrival without Our knowledge.

4.6 Requested Revisions. If You wish to revise Your Placement and/or Project after it has been confirmed by IVT, We will use reasonable efforts to make the requested changes, provided We receive Your requested revisions in writing and there is sufficient time to do so. The minimum notice We require in order to make a requested revision is 60 days prior to Placement start date. If You accept the revisions We offer in response to Your request, You agree to immediately pay a minimum charge of USD$70 to cover the costs incurred by Us in connection with any requested revision to Your Placement or Project. No revisions will be implemented without advance payment of the specified fee. However, any revision that You request to a Placement or Project that is scheduled to start in less than 60 days from the date of Our receipt of Your requested revisions will be subject to a revision fee of USD$100.

4.7 Completion of Application. We reserve the right to postpone Your arrival date at Your Placement if You do not complete all of the required documentation and timely pay to Us the entire Program Fee. The final deadline for receipt of Your completed application form, including this Agreement, and full payment of the Program Fees is 30 days before Your scheduled arrival date at Your Placement.

5. Cancellation and Refund Policy

5.1 Refund Policy and Considerations. Compared to similar companies that provide comparable comprehensive volunteer service opportunities, IVT's Program Fees are significantly lower than the fees charged by other such companies and Participants are encouraged to compare IVT's Program Fees to the fees charged by other similar programs. As a consequence, IVT operates on a much smaller profit margin and is therefore unable to provide and does not provide an open refund policy. It is solely Your decision to join our Program and no Applicant should participate in Our Programs if the Applicant feels that he or she is paying more for the services than Applicant will be receiving from Our Program. IVT commits significant resources to arranging each Placement and Project. In most Host Countries, payments to Placement Coordinators, Country Coordinators, Project Staff and/or the Host Family are made well in advance to pay for their commitments and services. IVT is unable to recover these advance payments so IVT is required to adopt and enforce a strict policy against refunds as provided in this section 5 of the Agreement.

All cancellation notices and requests shall be in writing duly signed by the Applicant and the cancellation will be deemed effective the day the request is received at our Offices in Athens, Georgia, USA.

5.2 Refund Restrictions. Your payment of the US$ 349.00 deposit to IVT pursuant to section 4 is strictly non-refundable under any and all circumstances. A refund shall also exclude any applicable bank and/or credit card processing charges incurred when payment was made to Us, bank charges made when the refund is paid out and a refund postage fee not exceeding United States Postal Service rate for express mailing to your address.

5.2.1 Exchange of Project. If there is forty-two (42) or more days prior to Your scheduled arrival date and You have paid all Your Program Fees, and if You are unable or do not wish to take up the initial or new Project selected for You pursuant to section 2 of this agreement, IVT will, subject to receipt of Your written request and payment of a new non-refundable deposit of $349.00, hold Your placement for an Exchange Period of twelve (12) months, from the day Your written request is received. You agree that You shall take up Your Project within this Period and pay Us any difference between the Program Fees existing the day You paid Your initial deposit, and Fees existing 60 days to the beginning of the new Project Period. You understand that You will be free to select a new Project and/or Host Country. You also agree that if by the end of the Exchange Period You still are unable or do not wish to take up the Project, IVT will give You a refund pursuant to subsection 5.2.2 to 5.2.4 below. You agree that You may exercise this exchange option only once and that if You take this option, You shall in every respect other than provided for in this subsection 5.2.1 be treated as a new applicant.

5.2.2 Pursuant to other parts of this section 5, if the cancellation is effective 60 or more calendar days from the scheduled arrival day, as set forth in the Placement Sheet, IVT agrees to refund to You seventy-five percent (75%) of the refundable Program Fee. If cancellation is effective 31 to 59 calendar days from the scheduled arrival day, the refund will be fifty percent (50%) of the refundable Program Fee. If cancellation is within 30 calendar days of Your scheduled arrival, the refund will be twenty five (25%) of the refundable Program Fee, subject to subsection 8.2 of this Agreement.

5.2.3 Cancellation On or After the Scheduled Arrival Day. If You cancel Your Participation on or after the scheduled arrival day, no refund whatsoever will be made to You under any conditions or for any reasons including failure or inability to Participate in the Program or for unused portions of the program.

5.3 Cancellation of Project by IVT. We reserve the right in Our sole discretion at any time before or after the beginning of the Project Period to cancel any Project or Program in which Applicant is scheduled to participate.

If IVT cancels a Project before the start of the Project Period, IVT will provide You with Your second choice Project within the same Host Country. If Your second choice Project cannot be found, IVT will give You a chance to change to another Project and if that is not acceptable to You, IVT will give You a full refund subject to Refund Restrictions in section 5.2 of this Agreement.

If IVT cancels a Project after the start of the Project Period because of a sudden outbreak of disease, political instability, natural disaster or similar condition beyond Our control, IVT will refund You a portion of the Program Fees based upon the remaining weeks in the Project Period. The weekly rate ranges from $50-150 per week depending on the particular Host Country as further explained in the Placement Sheet.

You are solely responsible for any and all fees and costs including airfare and/or other travel fees, charges, expenses, or penalties that might results from cancellation of or change in Your Program or Project, whether You or We cancel or alter the Program or Project . No refund shall be given for such expenses or costs. We cannot make any exceptions to this policy for any reason whatsoever including medical emergencies, and We strongly encourage You to obtain trip cancellation insurance.

5.4 Payment of Refunds. Any refunds payable hereunder by IVT will be made to You within ninety (90) days from confirmation of cancellation.

6. Termination of Agreement

6.1 Immediate Termination of Agreement by IVT. IVT reserves the right to immediately terminate this Agreement by giving You written notice of termination if any of the following events occur: (i) IVT discovers that You are involved in any illegal activities or convicted of any criminal activities before or during the Project Period; (ii) Your behavior, actions and/or conduct is deemed threatening, unacceptable or offensive in the judgment of the Project Staff and/or the Country Coordinator or otherwise causes fear or distress to any member or guest of the Host Family or anyone else involved in the Project; or (iii) you provide to IVT incorrect or false information about Your medical or mental health conditions. Any such termination pursuant to this subsection 6.1 shall be effective from the date of notice of termination and You agree that You shall not be entitled to any refund whatsoever.

6.2 Termination After Notice and Cure Opportunity. IVT reserves the right to terminate this Agreement by giving You written notice of termination if any of the following events occur: (i) the Project Staff and/or our Country Coordinator feel that You are not fulfilling Your responsibilities and duties under this Agreement; (ii) You refuse to accept and perform Your volunteer services under this Agreement; or (iii) You violate any term of this Agreement. In the event IVT elects to terminate this Agreement for any of the grounds provided in this subsection 6.2 above, IVT will first give You written notice identifying the violation alleged by IVT and You will have ten (10) days from notice to remedy the alleged violation. If You fail to remedy the alleged violation within the specified cure period, IVT may proceed to terminate this Agreement by giving You written notice of termination. No refunds whatsoever shall be recoverable or payable to You in the event of any termination of this Agreement pursuant to this subsection 6.2.

6.3 Effect of Termination. In the event of any termination hereunder, You shall be required to immediately leave and vacate the Host Family premises and the Project premises. If you fail to immediately vacate and avoid the Host Family premises and/or Project premises, appropriate legal action may be initiated against You as is necessary to compel Your compliance. In all events, IVT shall bear no responsibility or liability for any termination hereunder and You are solely responsible for any costs of return travel, meals and/or alternative living arrangements.

7. Releases and Waiver of Liabilities

7.1 Assumption of Personal Risks. YOU HEREBY AGREE, UNDERSTAND AND ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOUR AGREEMENT TO TRAVEL TO, TEMPORARILY LIVE IN AND PROVIDE VOLUNTEER SERVICES ON A PROJECT IN A FOREIGN HOST COUNTRY NECESSARILY INVOLVES A CERTAIN DEGREE OF HAZARDS, INHERENTLY DANGEROUS ACTIVITIES AND PERSONAL RISKS TO YOU, BOTH FORESEEN AND UNFORESEEN, ALL OF WHICH ARE FULLY ACCEPTED BY AND SOLELY ASSUMED BY YOU. IN ADDITION, YOU HEREBY FULLY AND PERMANENTLY RELEASE AND FOREVER DISCHARGE IVT FROM ANY AND ALL LIABILITY FOR YOUR PERSONAL INJURY, EMOTIONAL INJURY, ILLNESS, DISEASE, DEATH, AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE THAT MAY RESULT OR OCCUR DURING YOUR PLACEMENT AND/OR THE PROJECT PERIOD.

7.2 Release and Waivers in Favor of IVT. YOU HEREBY FULLY, PERMANENTLY AND IRREVOCABLY RELEASE, FOREVER DISCHARGE AND AGREE NOT TO SUE IVT, INCLUDING ANY AND ALL OF ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, ITS AGENTS, MANAGERS, PARTICIPANTS, APPLICANTS, MEMBERS, EMPLOYEES, OFFICERS OR REPRESENTATIVES, AND ANY COUNTRY COORDINATORS, PLACEMENT COORDINATORS, HOST FAMILIES OR OTHER PERSONS, ENTITIES, PARTIES, ORGANIZATIONS OR AGENCIES COLLABORATING WITH IVT (COLLECTIVELY "RELEASED PARTIES"), VOLUNTARILY AND WITHOUT DURESS, FROM ANY AND ALL ACTIONS, SUITS, LIABILITY, CLAIMS, DEMANDS, LOSSES, COSTS AND/OR CAUSES OF ACTION FOR DAMAGES OR OTHER LEGAL OR EQUITABLE RELIEF OF ANY NATURE INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, CLAIMS FOR PERSONAL INJURY, EMOTIONAL INJURY, ILLNESS, DISEASE, DEATH, PROPERTY DAMAGE OR OTHER LOSSES, EXPENSES AND/OR DAMAGES (COLLECTIVELY "CLAIMS"), WHICH MAY HEREAFTER ARISE FROM ANY CAUSE WHATSOEVER, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THAT ARISING FROM YOUR PARTICIPATION IN ANY PROJECT OR PLACEMENT AND/OR ANY PROJECT, ACTIVITY OR EVENT SPONSORED, MANAGED, ARRANGED, OR PROMOTED BY, OR OTHERWISE AFFILIATED OR ASSOCIATED WITH IVT, WHETHER OR NOT FORESEEABLE OR CONTRIBUTED TO BY THE NEGLIGENT ACTS OR OMISSIONS OF IVT OR OTHERS.

7.3 Acknowledgment. You agree, understand and acknowledge that Your release and waivers in this section 7 in favor of the Released Parties effectively releases and discharges the Released Parties from any liability or claim that You may have against the Released Parties with respect to any Claims that may result from Your participation in any Placement and/or Project. You also agree, understand and acknowledge that IVT does not assume any responsibility or obligation to provide financial assistance or other assistance, including, but not limited to, medical, health, or disability insurance, in the event of injury, illness, death, or property damage. You agree, understand and acknowledge that You are solely responsible for Your own safety and health care needs and for the protection of Your property.

7.4 Insurance. You agree, understand and acknowledge that IVT does not carry or maintain any health, medical, disability, damage or other liability insurance coverage for Your benefit or for any other Participants, and You hereby expressly release IVT from any responsibility or obligation to do so. You agree, understand and acknowledge that IVT strongly recommends that You obtain and maintain suitable insurance coverage on Your behalf during the Project Period and that You are solely responsible for obtaining and maintaining such insurance.

7.5 Medical Treatment. You also hereby release and forever discharge the Released Parties from any and all Claims whatsoever that may arise on account of any first aid or other medical treatment rendered during Your participation in any Project or Placement and/or any other project, activity or event sponsored, managed, arranged, or promoted by, or otherwise affiliated or associated with IVT.

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Kenyas warmth proves irresistible Story by DANIEL NYASSY - Daily NationPublication Date: 3/11/2008 They endured nearly 25 hours ...read more