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About us

Raleigh International has worked developing young people worldwide for over 40 years.

Expeditions with purpose

Raleigh International is not just a gap year organisation; we are not a travel agency. Our mission, for over 45 years, is to create life-enhancing journeys and transformational experiences for young people where they can challenge themselves, disconnect form technology and reconnect with people and nature – all whilst making a positive, long-lasting impact in the communities where we work.

Our volunteering programmes are called Raleigh Expeditions for a reason. An Expedition is a journey taken by a group of people with a purpose.

The purpose of a Raleigh Expedition is to challenge and empower young people to become resilient, confident leaders through purposeful adventure and meaningful community-driven impact.

“It helped enhance my leadership skills and I became a better me. Volunteering not only creates youth leaders but also inspires youth in the community to work.”

Peter | Raleigh Volunteer

More about Raleigh

Get more details on everything to do with Raleigh. Who we are, what we do, why you should choose us, our team and more.

Is Raleigh right for you?

The full Raleigh story

The impact Raleigh has

The team and careers

What’s Expedition really like?

Read all about it

OUR VISION

To build a world of young adults as global citizens and leaders who have the skills and confidence to work with others to build a fair, inclusive and green world for everyone.

OUR MISSION

To create life-enhancing journeys and transformational experiences for young people aged 17-24 where they can challenge themselves, disconnect from technology and connect with people and nature – all whilst making a long-lasting impact.

Our story

OUR VALUES

Raleigh venturers running over bridge in South Africa

Pura Vida

The national saying of Costa Rica, it means ‘pure life’. It stands for living with optimism, humility, kindness and embracing life to the fullest.

Get Fitter with Raleigh International

Find the courage

Dig deep and walk courageously in spite of your anxieties, worries and fear. Stand up for what you believe is right.

Raleigh venturer in mountains in south africa

Believe in yourself

You have the power to change the world around you. Fight self-doubt with bravery and belief, and you will surpass even your own expectations. 

Raleigh Venturers working on project in Costa Rica

Create impact, together

Our voices and actions are stronger together than apart. It is the power of connection, collaboration and unity that changes the world. 

Raleigh venturers in the river in Borneo

Live open-minded

Listen and learn from the views of others and you will widen your horizons beyond measure. Embrace and nurture global and cultural differences to see the world in full colour.  

Raleigh venturers finished trek in south African mountains

Never give up

When it gets hard, keep going. With perseverance and steadfast determination you can expand your limits, then even the greatest challenges can be overcome.

Why Raleigh?

The Raleigh Impact

Over the years Raleigh has made some significant impacts on communities, the environment and people

100
Over 100,000 people now have long-lasting access to safe and accessible hygiene facilities and access to toilets, handwashing and drinking water.
74
of volunteers feel happier after being without their phones during Expedition. 63% said they had improved mental health.
65
Volunteers have built or rehabilitated more than 65km of trails and conservation infrastructure
500
Over 500 rural households supported to protect income from environmental challenges.
Our impact