HomeAwe Policies

Reading and understanding these policies and guidelines is essential for acceptance!

This is a consent form outlining our policies at HomeAwe.

By providing your electronic signature, you confirm that you have read all the information, details, and terms mentioned and that you agree to abide by them and act accordingly.

The First Palestinian-Arab Platform

The experiences we offer are volunteer opportunities and journeys of self-investment, growth, progress, and global cultural engagement.

Volunteering helps us open up to a new world, break barriers of fear and deep-rooted stereotypes, and free ourselves from many societal limitations. The platform offers group volunteer experiences led by a guide, and occasionally private tours or group trips led by a member of our team.

Therefore, we’ve established the following security policies and principles to ensure a safe and protected environment for all participants in our programs. We are committed to applying them effectively to guarantee a safe and enjoyable volunteering experience for everyone.

🌍 Personal Experiences

📋 Requirements

💳 Why Do We Charge a Registration Fee?

💳 After Paying the Registration Fee

🔁 Refund & Cancellation Policy

Last Updated: May 12, 2025

At HomeAwe, every activity is planned months in advance. We work with hosts, guides, transportation providers, and service suppliers who require non-refundable payments. Due to these upfront costs, we follow the policy below to ensure fairness for participants and to maintain the sustainability of our platform.

1. How to Cancel or Transfer a Booking

All requests must be submitted in writing to info@home-awe.com from the same email address used during booking. The applicable refund policy is determined based on the email's receipt timestamp (Jerusalem Time, UTC+3). Refunds are issued to the original payment method within 14 business days.

2. Workshops (Short Events or One-Day Activities)

Important Notes:

Payment: Full amount due upon registration
Refunds: Not refundable
Credit: 100% of the paid amount is retained as HomeAwe credit, valid for any other workshop or event for 12 months from the original workshop date. Credit is transferable once to a friend for free (send us the new participant's details at least 48 hours before the event).

Why? Venue, trainer, and materials are paid for in advance and are non-recoverable. However, we want you to receive value, so we offer full credit instead of a cash refund.

3. Individual Volunteering Trips

These custom experiences include two non-refundable components:

A booking fee transferred directly to the partner project (e.g., animal sanctuary or community farm)
A coordination fee paid to the local organizer for supervision and support

Because our partners retain the fees whether you travel or not, 50% of the total amount paid is always non-refundable.

Notice Period Before Start Date	Cash Refund
≥ 30 days	50% of total paid
15–29 days	25% of total paid
≤ 14 days	0% (but booking transfer is possible — see section 5)

4. Organized Group Trips (Multi-day / 10–12 Participants)

4.1 Payment Schedule:

Deposit: 25% of trip price, due upon booking — non-refundable
Remaining Balance: Due 45 days before the trip

4.2 Cancellation by Participant:

Notice Period Before Trip	Refund (excluding non-refundable deposit)

≥ 45 days 75% of remaining balance 21–44 days 50% of remaining balance ≤ 20 days 0%

Example: Trip price: €2,000 | Deposit: €500 | Balance: €1,500 Cancellation 30 days before the trip → Refund = 50% of €1,500 = €750

5. Participant Replacement (Applies to All Products)

You may transfer your booking to another person (either on your own or with our help), provided that:

The request is submitted at least 10 days before the start date
The new participant meets all trip requirements (visa, health, insurance, etc.)

الرسوم والاسترجاعات حسب المنتج

Product	Admin Fee	What You Get Back (After Replacement Pays)
Workshops	Free	100% HomeAwe credit or direct participation by replacement
Individual Volunteering Trips	€75	Any refundable amount (from Section 3) minus €75
Organized Trips	€100 + airline name change fees	Full amount paid by replacement, excluding original deposit

Why isn’t the deposit refunded? It covers marketing and admin costs already incurred. The replacement pays their own deposit when joining.

6. Changes or Cancellations by HomeAwe (Force Majeure)

If we are forced to cancel, postpone, or significantly change the activity due to uncontrollable circumstances (e.g., natural disasters, border closures, pandemics, security risks):

Full Travel Credit (default option): 100% of amount paid, no expiry, transferable once
Cash Refund: We’ll refund any amounts we are able to recover from third parties, minus non-refundable costs (airlines, hotels, etc.). A detailed breakdown will be provided.

7. Credit Validity & Usage

HomeAwe credit is issued as a unique code
Can be used for any HomeAwe activity in the same currency
Credit is non-refundable once issued and must be used in a single transaction, any remaining balance is valid until the credit’s expiry date

8. Legal Rights

This policy does not override your legal rights under applicable consumer protection laws in the country HomeAwe is based in, the EU Package Travel Directive (for residents of the EEA), or any other mandatory local legislation. If such laws grant you stronger rights, those rights will apply and take precedence over this policy.

Have Questions? Contact us at: 📧 info@home-awe.com We’ll be happy to clarify anything before you book.

✈️ Travel Insurance Policy

⚠️ Very Important!

📌 Volunteering Is Not a Vacation!

👥 Expectation Alignment

The volunteering experience is a personal journey that depends on your mental and physical readiness to dive into it deeply.

As a platform, we are committed to providing a supportive environment and ensuring your basic needs are met. However, the joy of the experience depends on you — your perspective, adaptability, and openness to diverse conditions.

In any volunteer program around the world, perfection doesn’t exist, and not everything will match your expectations. This type of experience is filled with personal challenges and requires flexibility and acceptance. Examples: Sharing accommodation with others, living and interacting with people from around the world, managing personal expenses, navigating different lifestyles and cultures... The more you develop these skills, the more rewarding your experience will be.

Adapting to your surroundings: Whether you're organized or spontaneous, you will inevitably face unexpected situations. Avoid quick judgments — be patient and focus on the positives. Make the most of every moment. Give yourself the chance to learn, and discover how brave and strong you are for taking this step.

Surrendering to a positive outlook: As the saying goes, “You don’t always get what you wish for; sometimes the wind blows in the opposite direction.” This perfectly reflects the concept of letting go. Accept things as they are and enjoy them as much as possible. Keep your expectations simple — let the experience lead you.

Your personal space: We will respect and provide you with your own space during the experience. As a team, we won’t be in constant contact. Once you arrive safely at the volunteer location, your personal journey begins.

Communication: The more you connect with your host or program organizers, the more enjoyable your experience will be. Express yourself, engage with them and with other volunteers, and trust that their goal is to create a comfortable and fulfilling environment for you.

Communication with the HomeAwe Team: One of the unique advantages of our platform is ongoing support, even while you are abroad. You are not alone. Staying in touch with our team is important — we are here for you, wherever you are! We will do everything we can to support you emotionally and ensure your experience ends on a positive and fulfilling note.

🧳 Passport & Visa Requirements

Legal Information & Guidelines

Volunteer – Safety Guidelines, Agreement, Program Completion, and Disclaimer

Volunteer Safety Guidelines

At HomeAwe, the safety and well-being of our volunteers is a top priority. We’ve established the following guidelines to ensure a safe and protected environment for everyone participating in our programs. Please read these carefully and follow them throughout your entire experience:

1. Pre-Travel Preparation

Obtain comprehensive travel and health insurance before departure. Volunteers are responsible for securing insurance that covers the full duration of the program. Volunteers must provide the organization with a copy of their health insurance document before traveling. Familiarize yourself with the customs, laws, and cultural norms of the host country. Research and understand any potential health risks or required vaccinations for your destination.

2. Personal Safety and Security

Keep copies of important documents, such as your passport and emergency contact information. Always stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas. Use safe transportation and stay in trusted accommodations. Avoid displaying valuables or carrying large amounts of cash in public.

3. Health and Hygiene

Follow recommended hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing or using hand sanitizer. Drink only bottled or purified water, and avoid raw or unsafe food. Use insect repellent and wear appropriate clothing to protect against insect bites. Comply with any health or safety instructions provided by the organization or local authorities.

4. Transportation Safety

Follow local traffic laws when using any form of transportation. Use seatbelts or helmets where required. Choose reliable transportation options and avoid overcrowded or unsafe vehicles.

5. Emergency Preparedness

Learn the emergency procedures and important contact numbers, including local emergency services and the nearest embassy or consulate. Follow all evacuation protocols or safety instructions issued by the organization or authorities. Inform the organization and your emergency contacts of your location and contact details.

6. Cultural Sensitivity

Respect local customs, traditions, and cultural sensitivities. Dress modestly and appropriately, especially in religious or conservative areas. Ask permission before photographing people or sensitive places.

7. Reporting Safety Concerns

Immediately report any security concerns, incidents, injuries, or illnesses to a HomeAwe representative or local authorities. Cooperate fully with the organization during any investigations and provide accurate and timely information.

⚠️ Please Note: HomeAwe is not responsible for the loss or theft of any personal belongings, such as laptops, phones, clothing, or other items. We strongly recommend obtaining insurance that covers personal belongings.

By following these guidelines, you help create a safe and supportive environment for yourself and your fellow volunteers. Please remember that these rules do not cover every scenario — always use common sense and stay alert. Volunteers are fully responsible for their health insurance and the safety of their personal belongings. We recommend getting coverage that includes these items.

Volunteer Agreement

This agreement is entered into between HomeAwe (hereinafter referred to as “the Organization”) and the undersigned Volunteer.

1. Volunteer Responsibilities

The Volunteer agrees to carry out the tasks and responsibilities assigned by the Organization and the host in the program, in accordance with the provided guidelines. The Volunteer acknowledges having received and understood all program details, rules, terms, and conditions set by the Organization.

2. المشاركة الطوعية:

يقر المتطوع بأن مشاركته في برامج المنظمة هي طوعية تمامًا،
وأنه لا يحق له المطالبة بأي تعويض مالي أو مزايا، ما لم يتم تحديد ذلك صراحة في اتفاقية منفصلة بين الطرفين.

3. Confidentiality:

The Volunteer agrees to maintain the confidentiality of any information shared by the Organization or its clients, and not to disclose it to any third party.

4. Code of Conduct:

The Volunteer agrees to comply with the Organization’s Code of Conduct throughout the entire duration of their participation. This includes respecting all individuals, refraining from any form of discrimination, harassment, or harmful behavior, and acting in accordance with the laws and regulations of the host country.

5. Health and Safety

The Volunteer acknowledges full responsibility for their own health and safety during the program. They agree to follow all safety guidelines and procedures provided by the Organization, and to report any accidents, injuries, or concerns promptly to the appropriate parties.

6. Program Completion & Affiliation Disclaimer:

The Volunteer acknowledges and agrees to the terms outlined in the Program Completion and Affiliation Disclaimer Agreement. [Click here to read the document.]

7. Volunteer Safety Guidelines

The Volunteer acknowledges and agrees to comply with HomeAwe’s Safety Guidelines. [Click here to read the guidelines.]

8. Indemnification:

The Volunteer agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Organization, its directors, employees, and agents from any claims, damages, liabilities, or expenses arising from their participation in the program, except in cases where the Organization has acted with gross negligence or willful misconduct. The Volunteer also agrees not to seek a refund in the event of voluntary withdrawal after registration and payment. In such cases, the amount paid will be retained as credit for participation in another program within the same calendar year.

9. Termination of Agreement:

Either party may terminate this agreement at any time and for any reason, by providing written notice to the other party. The Volunteer agrees to return any Organization property or materials upon termination.

10. Governing Law

This agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of [Jurisdiction]. Any dispute arising from this agreement shall fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of [Jurisdiction].

By signing below, I confirm that I have read and understood this agreement, including all program details, rules, terms, the Program Completion & Affiliation Disclaimer, and Safety Guidelines, and I agree to comply fully with all of the above.

Volunteer Completion & Affiliation Disclaimer Agreement

1. Program Completion:

I acknowledge that my participation in the volunteer program with HomeAwe will end upon completion of the program duration, as previously agreed.

2. Termination of Affiliation:

I understand and agree that upon completing the volunteer program, I will no longer be considered a member or representative of HomeAwe. Any ongoing relationship or affiliation with the organization will be considered terminated, and I am no longer permitted to act on behalf of the organization.

3. Post-Program Stay & Immigration Responsibility

If I choose to remain in the host country after the program ends, I bear full responsibility for complying with all local immigration laws and regulations regarding my stay as a tourist or under any other legal status. I understand that any extension or change of my legal status is subject solely to the approval of the host country's authorities.

4. Liability Waiver:

I fully release HomeAwe, its directors, employees, and agents from any legal liability, claims, or financial or personal consequences resulting from my decision to stay in the country after the program ends. I acknowledge that HomeAwe bears no responsibility for any legal or financial implications arising from this decision.

5. Personal Responsibility

I acknowledge that I am solely responsible for my decisions and actions during and after the program. I will not hold HomeAwe liable for any personal injury, illness, loss or theft of property, or any unforeseen circumstances that may occur.

6. Compliance with Laws and Regulations

I agree to comply with all local laws and regulations of the host country during and after the program. I understand that any violation may lead to legal consequences, including deportation, and that HomeAwe bears no responsibility for such outcomes.

7. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

This agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of [Country/State]. Any dispute arising under this agreement shall fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of [Country/State].

By signing below, I confirm that I have read this agreement carefully, fully understand its content, and voluntarily sign it, acknowledging that HomeAwe is released from any obligations or responsibilities after the completion of the volunteer program.