Why Fijians?

31% of Fijians live in absolute poverty. Few have access to healthcare, a reliable food source, or a living wage. Because there is no war or widespread famine, the country is often overlooked by world media and large aid organizations. In an area that relies nearly entirely on tourism, the collapse in the world economy has left few jobs for even the most qualified individuals. Simply: people need help in Fiji.

What is NGF’s mission?

The Foundation, begun 7 years ago by a single sustaining donor, has developed and demonstrated programs in health care, education, and infrastructure that have measurably improved these conditions at model sites. As a veteran organization in Fiji, NGF has learned how to construct and manage these programs in a manner consistent with Fijian custom and culture.

Yet, without the capacity to partner with mainstream funders, we will never be able to replicate our successful programs in other parts of Fiji, where the need remains dire. At our first medical clinic on the outlying island of Koro, as one example, hundreds of villagers materialized with ailments that had been eroding their health for years. Many had never seen a health care professional. Our core support has enabled us to make three medical expeditions to eight remote islands, but the need is much greater, and only by building programmatic and funding partnerships can we begin to meet it.

How can I make a difference?

The first step in building these partnerships is communicating our important mission to mainstream funders, whether they are larger non-profits, corporations or major givers. The best way to communicate our message is through the experience of volunteers. So…we invite you to come to Fiji!

We have designed a program that will not only leave you with the experiences to return stateside and speak passionately about Fiji, but also create tangible benefits for people who need your help. Whether traveling to remote Fijian islands on our exclusive humanitarian expedition or spear fishing with locals, you will help extend our programmatic reach to some of the most remote areas in Fiji. Because we believe so passionately in our cause, we want to bring you to Fiji at no cost to you.

What do I do on the trip? How long is it?

The trip is broken down into two sections: mainland volunteering and a humanitarian expedition across the South Pacific. Mainland volunteering makes up the bulk of the trip, as volunteers live in a village on the island of Vanua Levu and work within one of NGF’s programs. You can work the farmland, assist in the medical center, or teach at one of our four schools, among many other options. Volunteers can also construct their own program – NGF maintains nearly every human services program imaginable, and you can create your own initiative that reflects your passion and interests. Some programs require pre-trip learning, in which volunteers must take short classes on commercial farming or first aid, for example.

The trip is 2-4 weeks. Of course you can go for a shorter time, but we recommend a minimum of two weeks to get the full Fijian experience. NGF has arranged a 7-day expedition on the Tui Tai Adventure Cruise for all of our volunteers. National Geographic rates the Tui Tai as some of the “best adventure travel on earth.”  Volunteers will visit remote beaches, snorkel over incredible reefs and experience the most breathtaking locations across northern Fiji. Volunteers will also visit remote villages, bringing NGF donations to those in need.  Additionally, volunteers preserve Fijian tradition by creating oral history reports from interviews with elderly villagers. You have the unique opportunity to help people living in paradise – it is a trip you will never forget.

How does it work?

As a young entrepreneur-volunteer trying to save the world, you fundraise your program fee. This program fee includes all costs associated with travel, housing, food, administrative support, and the Tui Tai humanitarian cruise. The trip's retail value is $11,000. NGF has received a $4,500 grant PER STUDENT! So all you have to do is raise $6,500 and NGF provides the rest! Because we are a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, all donations to NGF are tax-deductible. NGF will help you fundraise every step of the way – begin by checking out our fundraising toolkit!

Donations are processed online through your personal fundraising page here. Set up is simple – you can merge your page with social media, keep track of your donations, and automatically send out thank you letters!

Once you have raised $6,500.00 we will take care of the rest. We will arrange all travel and lodging accommodations, as well as provide you with a pre-departure kit. All you have to do is pack your bag and get on the plane. Set up your page to get started!