CIEE Community Impact Initiative
GIVE BACK WHILE YOU GO GLOBAL
Make an Impact
Studying abroad isn’t just about earning credits or exploring a new city – it’s also about creating community. While abroad, CIEE invites you to participate in the CIEE Community Impact Initiative, an optional volunteer opportunity that lets you give back while learning more about your local community.
Beginning in spring 2026, students on CIEE semester study abroad programs will be able to:
- Make a positive impact in their host community
- Develop meaningful relationships with local organizations
- Gain hands-on experience that complements their academics
CIEE Community Impact Initiatives
Sample Food Insecurity Initiatives
- Prepare meals for those in need at a local soup kitchen
- Help out on a sustainable farm
- Redistribute leftover food from restaurants to shelters
Sample Health Initiatives
- Co-design public health education campaigns
- Support mental health programs in schools or community centers
- Assist healthcare organizations with outreach or administration
Sample Youth Development Initiatives
- Deliver supplies to families in need
- Volunteer in childcare or tutoring centers
- Support community events focused on youth engagement
Other Opportunities
- Assist English teachers in local elementary schools
- Volunteer with homeless charities
- Participate in local environmental clean-ups
Community Impact Week
Get ready for a brand-new CIEE tradition! Every spring and fall semester, each of CIEE’s 45 centers around the world will host a week-long celebration highlighting the impact you and your peers are making in your host city.
During Community Impact Week, you’ll:
- Share what your community needs and how you’ve helped in real, hands-on ways
- Celebrate the connections you’ve built all semester
- See your stories shared online so the whole CIEE network can shout out the work you and local partners are doing
It’s all about showing up, giving back, and recognizing the community impact you’re making abroad!
CIEE Community Impact Global Poster Competition
Show the world what community impact looks like! Each year, CIEE hosts the Community Impact Global Poster Competition – a chance for you to highlight the project you’ve worked on abroad and represent your region at the next annual CIEE Study Abroad Conference.
One finalist from each CIEE region will:
- Travel to the conference’s host city (round-trip airfare and lodging covered)
- Present their project on an international stage
- Compete for awards
- Earn a CIEE donation for their community organization – helping your impact continue long after you’ve returned home
Share your story of community impact with the global CIEE network!
Get Started
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Step #1: Choose Your CIEE Study Abroad Program
Explore 470+ unique programs and pick your favorite.
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Step #3: Express Your Interest in Community Impact
Let your CIEE Study Abroad Advisor know you're interested in getting involved.
You can also wait until you're settled in your host city and sign up to participate in CIEE’s Community Impact Initiative on-site. Be sure to connect with a CIEE staff member at your CIEE Center!
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