Farmer-to-Farmer Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements to become a volunteer? 
We have an ongoing need for volunteers with agricultural experience, as well as small enterprise development, marketing/communication skills, and group formation/development. The ideal Farmer-to-Farmer (F2F) volunteer combines a strong technical or practical background with good communication and interpersonal skills. 

Do I need to speak the local language? 
We do not require volunteers to speak the local language but language skills (even basic) are a definite plus. Spanish is spoken in Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, and Colombia. English is spoken in Jamaica and Guyana. Burmese is spoken in Burma. F2F field staff are bilingual, and interpreters are provided if necessary for volunteers. 

In which countries do you need volunteers? 
We are currently placing volunteers in Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Colombia, Guyana, and Burma, as well as other select countries. Check out the Volunteer page for more details.

How soon will I be chosen to go on an assignment? 
Volunteers are chosen entirely based on what is needed by the host country. Your resume is forwarded to our field offices for review and approval. The process typically takes a few weeks, sometimes longer. 

How long are the assignments? 
Volunteers must stay for a minimum of 15 days but can stay longer. Trips are typically 2 to 3 weeks.  

Will there be any cost for me to volunteer? 
No. You are expected to contribute your time, while F2F covers the expenses. 

Will I be compensated for my time on an assignment? 
No. While our program covers volunteer costs incurred during their assignment, volunteers are not compensated for their time. These are volunteer opportunities rather than paid consultancies. 

What kind of housing is provided? 
It varies from country to country, and depends on if you are in a rural or urban area. Housing could either mean homestays, guesthouses, university dorms, hotels, etc. Hotels are usually used in larger cities whereas alternate housing might be the option available in rural areas.  Partners’ field staff make all your housing arrangements for you.

Where does Farmer-to-Farmer receive its funding? 
The F2F program is funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The funding originates from the U.S. Farm Bill. 

May I bring a family member with me? 
If you are considering bringing a family member with you, please consult our staff first. We cannot cover the expenses of any extra people on assignments. If you would like to cover the costs for a family member, it may be possible to bring her or him with you if this does not interfere with your assignment. There have also been cases where a husband/wife or parent/child travel as a team because they are both technical experts and each have a unique volunteer assignment.

How do I apply? 
To apply, please send a copy of your resume/CV to [email protected] with an indication of the project or country of interest and we will send you more details. If you are a member of the local Partners chapter in your state, you can contact them for more information as well. 

What expenses are paid for? 
F2F travel normally consists of economy round-trip airfare, plus allowable travel-related expenses including accommodations, transportation, meals, required vaccinations, and previously approved materials and supplies. Some expenses, such as airfare, will be paid for in advance. For others, volunteers will pay for and/or be reimbursed for approved expenses. The program does not cover costs such as personal phone calls, sightseeing, alcoholic beverages and medical expenses not covered by the medical insurance plan. 

Is insurance provided? 
Partners offers medical insurance coverage for people traveling on approved Partners-funded international travel at no cost to the traveler for the amount of time they are on their F2F assignment overseas. 

Can I make my own travel arrangements? 
All travel arrangements are handled through Partners and our travel agent, Travel Leaders Corporate.

What is expected of me after I complete my trip? 
You are expected to submit a trip report detailing your activities, as well as participate in outreach in your community at your own initiative. More details will be sent in your Congratulations Packet once you have been accepted for an assignment. 


We hope this answers some of your questions about the Farmer-to-Farmer program! Please contact us if you have any additional questions you would like answered.