Terms of Service

Draft for pilot use — professional US nonprofit, GDPR/CCPA, and travel-platform legal review is still required before paid bookings open.

1. About SOAR

SOAR (soarvolunteer.org) is a platform connecting volunteers with host organizations offering volunteer projects, work exchanges, and learning trips worldwide. Programs are operated by independent host organizations, not by SOAR.

2. Accounts

You must provide accurate information when creating an account and keep your credentials secure. Host organization accounts are subject to review and approval by SOAR, and may be suspended for inaccurate listings or conduct that harms volunteers or the platform.

3. Applications and payments

Applying to programs is free. Some programs require a booking deposit, payable to SOAR via our payment provider (Stripe). Remaining program fees, if any, are paid directly to the host organization. Refund terms are stated on each program page; contact us for deposit refund requests.

4. Program information and safety

SOAR reviews host organizations and program listings, but does not operate the programs and cannot guarantee every detail. You are responsible for evaluating a program's suitability, obtaining travel insurance, visas, and vaccinations, and exercising judgment while traveling.

5. Host price parity

Hosts must not list a program fee on SOAR that exceeds the price offered through their own website or direct booking channels for the same dates and inclusions. SOAR’s commission is included within the listed program fee and must not be added on top.

6. Community content

Reviews and forum posts must be honest, respectful, and lawful. We may remove content and suspend accounts that violate these rules.

7. Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, SOAR is not liable for damages arising from your participation in programs operated by host organizations. Nothing in these terms limits liability that cannot be limited by law.

8. Cancellations, insurance, visas and disputes

Hosts remain responsible for delivering their programs and must notify SOAR and affected volunteers of material changes or cancellations. Volunteers remain responsible for passports, visas, vaccinations, travel and medical insurance, and compliance with local law. Deposit refund rules are shown before any payment action. Contact SOAR first about a listing, safety, cancellation, or transaction dispute so it can be documented and reviewed.

9. Safeguarding

Hosts must follow applicable safeguarding law and SOAR’s safety and ethics policy. Programs involving children or other vulnerable people may require additional screening, background checks, qualified supervision, and evidence that participation is genuinely needed. SOAR may pause or reject high-risk listings.

10. Contact

Questions about these terms: use the contact form at soarvolunteer.org/contact.