Click the buttons under each trip for the application and enrollment links per program. When applying, be sure to check “pay by check” to bypass the application fee (this is on Summer Search!)

Required enrollment paperwork includes:

• Health history

• Results from a physical exam

• Immunization report

• Student profile

• Copy of your passport

We strongly encourage you to start the passport application/ renewal process no later than January 15, 2026.

You must attend ALL virtual student and parent orientations, application workshops and events hosted by Global Works and Summer Search in order to prepare you for your trip.

“Goodbye Groups” in the months leading up to summer will be organized for you to receive your equipment, travel itinerary, and to meet the other Summer Searchers who will be traveling with the same program!

Global Works students have the opportunity to stay in a variety of living accommodations. Some are dorm-style lodges or youth hostels that sleep 4-10 students per room, and others are traditional hotel-style rooms shared by 2-4 students. Everyone will have their own bed, space, and access to a private bathroom. Students will be required to share in the cooking responsibilities at some locations.

This is an open enrollment program, which means non-Summer Searchers will be able to join your group and you’ll meet folks from diverse backgrounds. There may be a couple of other Summer Searchers attending the same program, but most people will probably not know each other!

You will not be able to use your phones or any electronic device that connects to the internet once you arrive in-country with program leaders. However, limited communication with family/friends back home is available. Within the first five nights, you can call home to let your family know that you have arrived safely and how you are settling in. There will also be optional opportunities for you to call home once a week throughout the trip.

Parents and Guardians are always able and welcome to call the program if necessary — leaders always have working cell phones and service. Global Works will also be updating their trip travel blogs every 1-2 days.

In case of emergency, please use our 24/7 hotline - Summer on Call. Learn more about this service here.

We recommend bringing $100 for personal spending. You may want to do laundry or buy snacks and souvenirs along the way! You should also bring something small ($5-20) for your host family.

Home reconstruction and fortification service work are the heart of this program, with projects designed for and with local families. Learn about sustainable forestry and rainforest enrichment, explore Puerto Rico’s most historic cities, and sea kayak in a bioluminescent bay. Relax on the beach and learn local customs while earning 30-35 community service hours by helping communities improve their infrastructure and restore their natural environments.

Available Sessions:

• June 25th, 2026 - July 2nd, 2026

• July 7th, 2026, July 14th, 2026

• July 17th, 2026- July 24th, 2026

• July 28th, 2026- August 4th, 2026

You will need to travel by plane to Puerto Rico. A NY REAL ID is required to fly. Students will travel by private bus while in-country.

While our sophomores are chaperoned at every point of their journeys, juniors are not accompanied by Summer Search to the airport. Program staff typically meet students at the airport and travel with you to your in-country destination. Program staff will remain with you until you return to the U.S.

Click here to view the Global Works x Summer Search packing list. A guide to the equipment we provide can be found on our FAQs + Resources page, along with other helpful links and info — check it out!