Minds Abroad's philosophy is about 'learning by doing' so in addition to studying Mandarin, we encourage students to participate in either volunteering or language exchange activities.

In Kunming, students can choose to volunteer in various non-profit organizations that work for children of disadvantaged, migrant families and poor, homeless children. Volunteers can give English lessons to these children or help them with homework or other vocational training arranged for by the centers.

Impact Abroad is our volunteering wing and partners with local organizations to provide international volunteers to help teach basic English skills to homeless children deaf and mute children, and children from severely economically disadvantaged families. International volunteers spending time volunteering will broaden these children’s horizons and foster a curiosity in them about the world. Teaching them English will also help give them the skills they need to escape the poverty in which they are growing up. Volunteering will not only be a rewarding experience for the kids, but for you as well! 

Volunteer for Free

We do not charge any fees for volunteering placements and arrange your housing in Kunming . We also advice  you on visa applications, flight bookings and traveling in India and China.
Impact Abroad provides the following for free:

• Program placement
• Training on teaching English
• Meals on weekdays in our office
• Cell-phone
• Orientation
• Insurance
• Airport Pick-up
• 24/7 in-coutry support

However, our program does not cover the daily living expenses of our volunteers. The cost of plane tickets, the cost of your visa, housing, meals or any other daily living expenses for our volunteers is not included. That said, we can provide you with some assistance in making these arrangements if you would like. We provide comfortable, spacious apartments which are much better and cheaper than hotel accommodation.

Types of Services

Children's Assistance

Volunteer work with these organizations would include teaching English to disadvantaged children and assisting with various community outreach activities. 

Environmental Protection

Yunnan is the province in China with the most varieties of flora and fauna but this environmental diversity is increasingly being threatened by China's rapid development.  Working with these organizations is an excellent way to learn about this issue.

Community Development

Yunnan is still a particularly poor and undeveloped area of China so there is much need for community development and poverty alleviation organizations. 

Health Services

Health issues such as AIDS and tobacco usage are some of the greatest challenges facing Yunnan.  Working with organizations focused on these issues would involve both designing and participating in campaigns to promote healthy lifestyles and awareness of these major health issues.