Meaningful Experiences That Inspire, Connect, and Create Change
Service & Learning Trips
Experience travel in a whole new way—through service, connection, and cultural immersion. Whether you're looking to join an upcoming trip, design your own, or explore past experiences, IN OUR HANDS offers opportunities to make a real impact while creating unforgettable memories.
Make a Difference While Exploring the World At IN OUR HANDS, we believe travel should be more than just sightseeing—it should be a way to connect, contribute, and grow. Our service and learning trips are designed to bring people together, create meaningful change, and inspire fresh perspectives. Whether you're joining a group, customizing your own experience, or browsing past trips for inspiration, you’ll find opportunities to serve, learn, and be part of something bigger.
Your Journey Starts Here: Meaningful Travel with Purpose
A renewed sense of purpose and inspiration for what’s next
Deep connections with like-minded travelers and local communities
Meaningful service opportunities that align with your values
Here’s what you’ll gain:
Find the Perfect Trip for You
Join one of our carefully curated service and learning trips designed for those who want to travel with purpose. Whether you’re looking to make a difference in a local community, immerse yourself in a new culture, or gain fresh insights, our upcoming trips provide the perfect balance of service, connection, and adventure.
Learn More About These Upcoming Trips
Find Your Next Adventure
Upcoming Trips
Want to plan a service and learning trip tailored to your group’s needs? Whether you’re organizing a family experience, a corporate retreat, or a student-led initiative, we’ll help design a meaningful, impactful trip that aligns with your vision.
✔ Custom itinerary planning
✔ Personalized service opportunities
✔ Expert guidance to make it seamless
Create a Journey That’s Uniquely Yours
Design a Custom Trip
✔ Civil Rights Trip
✔ Jamaica Trip
✔ Puerto Rico Trip
eXPLORE OUR PAST TRIPS TO
Explore past service and learning experiences to see how others have made an impact. From local initiatives to international projects, these stories highlight the power of travel and service. See what’s possible and find inspiration for your next adventure.
Get Inspired by Our Past Journeys
Browse Past Trips
Effervescent studio values equity-based pricing models and is committed to serving underprivileged women through a limited number of scholarships each year. The standard investment helps fund these opportunities!
Please reach out to learn more about applying for a scholarship.
- Carol
"Standing at the Alabama river in Montgomery, ….where the slaves were unloaded from boats and marched in chains….past throngs of white people, it’s beyond my imagination to think of this. My heart and my eyes have been opened by this experience. I am grateful."
- Ann
"I continue to wonder how I could’ve lived through the 1960s without knowing much about this period of history in the US. The African-American experience is real history in our country. We cannot let this dehumanization happen again!"
- Steve
…a highlight for me was our experience at Dexter Church and the parsonage. It was so amazing to hear from Wanda Battle , who encouraged us and even helped us to sing in public!!
- Karen
"What a treat and delight to begin the day by listening to Carolyn McKinstry!"
Once you’ve chosen your trip, pay your deposit to lock in your spot and start preparing for an unforgettable experience.
Step 3: Secure Your Spot
If you have questions or want to customize your trip, book a video chat with Joanne for guidance.
Step 2: Get in Touch
Explore upcoming trips, design a custom journey, or browse past experiences for inspiration.
Step 1: Choose Your Experience
A look at the process
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which trip is right for me?
Each trip has different focus areas, from community development to education and sustainability. If you're unsure, schedule a chat with Joanne to discuss the best fit for you.
Do I need prior volunteer experience?
Not at all! Our trips are designed for all experience levels—just bring an open heart and a willingness to serve.
What’s included in the trip cost?
Trip costs typically cover accommodations, meals, in-country transportation, and service project materials. Specific details are provided for each trip.
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A mischievous poltergeist casts a sticking charm on a passing tapestry, leaving students in a fit of laughter. Nearby, a troll umbrella stand teeters dangerously, almost toppling over. Flying cars zoom through the skies, their engines humming with magic, while a golden locket glints faintly in the moonlight, a poignant reminder of Lily Potter’s enduring legacy. Pumpkin juice.
Another question here
Half-giant jinxes ripple through the air, creating a faint hum of magical energy as peg-leg gillywater is served in clinking goblets at the local tavern. Broken glasses are mended with a quick Reparo, and a large black dog prowls silently across the castle grounds, its eyes gleaming in the dim moonlight. Inside the Great Hall, enchanted ceilings reflect the starry night sky.
Another question here
Nearly-Headless Nick drifts serenely through the room, his head wobbling comically as he admires sparkling baubles strung along the walls. A mischievous poltergeist zips by, dropping a banana into a cauldron, eliciting gasps and laughter from a group of first-years. Half-giant jinxes ripple through the air, creating a faint hum of magical energy as peg-leg gillywater.
