A service-learning trip is more than just volunteering abroad—it’s a powerful combination of meaningful service, cultural exchange, and personal growth.

You’ll explore who you are becoming—not just what you’re doing. In a world that often measures us by our productivity, Compass offers something different: the chance to pause, connect, and plant seeds for the kind of person you want to be. It’s about learning to become a better human being—and realizing that service and purpose are deeply intertwined.

You’ll work alongside local partners on projects that address real needs in the community. This may include:

• Environmental sustainability work (like beach clean-ups or reforestation)

• Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

• Community-based volunteering alongside local organizations

Every project is hands-on, meaningful, and grounded in local partnerships.

Cost varies between groups and which school you’re traveling with. But trip costs are all inclusive. This means that they include:

• Round-trip flights (unless otherwise noted)

• Lodging and all meals

• Ground transportation in Iceland

• All Compass programming and materials

• Guided excursions and cultural experiences

• Full-time support from a trained Compass instructor

Financial aid may be available—just ask.

Yes! We provide a full fundraising guide and support along the way. Many participants raise all or part of their trip costs through personal or community outreach.

Yes. Our destinations are some of the the safest countries in the world. All trip locations and accommodations are vetted, and your Compass instructor will be trained and available 24/7. We travel in groups and work with trusted local partners throughout the trip.

Yes—and it must be valid for at least six months beyond your return date. If you don’t have a passport yet, start that process as soon as possible.

Compass provides a detailed packing list and travel prep guide once you’re registered and deposited. We’ll make sure you know exactly what to bring (and what to leave behind).

Yes—but you’ll need to arrange international coverage before the trip. We ask all participants to limit technology use during the week. Presence is a core value of the program, and our time in Iceland is meant to be immersive, reflective, and community-centered. That means phones away during group time, meals, and structured activities.

Sleeping locations vary by trip. You might stay in a local church space, hostel, guesthouse, or retreat center. Most housing is shared with fellow Compass travelers, and all locations are safe and pre-approved by Compass staff. You’ll get full housing details ahead of time, and we’ll talk about any needs during your interview.

Yes. We do our best to accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.). You’ll have the chance to share this info during your registration and pre-trip meetings so we can plan accordingly.

Yes, if you plan to use your phone. But you can absolutely get by without your phone for the week; just make sure your loved ones know you’re going off the grid.

Most groups are 10–16 participants, plus 1–2 school/organization leaders and a Compass instructor. We intentionally keep trips small to foster deeper connections and flexibility.

While service and learning are at the heart of every Compass program, you'll also have dedicated time to explore your host country alongside your group. Whether you're standing beneath Iceland's waterfalls and volcanic landscapes or hiking the lush coastlines and crater lakes of the Azores, these experiences are woven into the program to help you better understand the people, culture, and place you're serving.

Our programs are open to all students, regardless of faith background or belief. Some trips have a direct faith focus, and we make that clear on the webpage and during interviews. If you are traveling with a religious school, it’s likely that faith elements will be woven into the curriculum. No matter the trip type, all of our programming fosters thoughtful reflection, deep conversations, and a strong sense of purpose. Each year, we welcome participants from a wide variety of faith traditions and backgrounds.

Most participants find the week comfortably manageable. You'll spend time walking through towns, serving alongside our local partner, and exploring natural areas that may include uneven trails or moderate hikes. You don't need previous outdoor experience—just a willingness to participate, stay flexible, and embrace the adventure.

Absolutely. For many Compass participants, this is their first time leaving the United States. We'll walk with you through every step of the process, from preparing for your flight to navigating airports and traveling abroad. By the time you arrive in the Azores, you'll feel ready.

We'd love to hear from you. Whether you're wondering about the itinerary, fundraising, travel, or simply whether this experience is the right fit, we're happy to answer your questions. Send us an email at info@compasspath.org and a member of our team will get back to you.