The goSTOPS Volunteer Program offers foreign travellers a unique chance to volunteer at hostels in India and become a Community Champion. Designed for those seeking more than the usual tourist experience, this programme allows participants to live at goSTOPS hostels for one to three months while connecting with travellers from around the world, contributing to hostel life, and discovering India from a local perspective.
Volunteer at Hostels in India: Tasks & Roles
Volunteers who volunteer at hostels in India play a key role in creating a welcoming, lively atmosphere. Evening shifts usually run from 7 to 11 PM, during which participants greet guests, give tours, and help newcomers feel at home. They also organise and host a variety of events such as open mic nights, movie screenings, gaming sessions, artistic showcases, storytelling circles, karaoke evenings, group fitness activities, and more. Volunteers can contribute by creating engaging social media content, interacting with guests through community groups, collecting feedback, and supporting the hostel team with daily operations. Keeping records of activities and preparing updates for management is also part of the role.
Volunteer at Hostels in India: Living & Getting There
This programme provides free dormitory accommodation and daily meals, giving volunteers the opportunity to experience hostel life fully while developing hospitality skills. Participants also receive a certificate of volunteering and the option to stay at other goSTOPS locations, making it possible to explore different parts of India. The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, and detailed travel instructions are shared once the application is successful. The supportive hostel environment allows volunteers to balance their responsibilities with socialising and exploring their surroundings.
Volunteer at Hostels in India: What Else
Beyond structured tasks, volunteers who volunteer at hostels in India enjoy a rich cultural and social experience. They meet people from across the globe, create lasting friendships, and gain practical experience in event planning, social media engagement, guest relations, and community management. The programme offers the chance to immerse oneself in Indian culture, participate in fun activities, and leave with lifelong memories and valuable skills in travel and hospitality.
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