top of page
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How do I apply for financial aid?Financial aid applications are reviewed, and recipients are notified by mid-December. Detailed instructions for applying can be found on the Youthlinc website or by contacting the Youthlinc office.
-
Who can apply for the Service Year Program?The program is open to secondary school and college/university students within Utah. Adult mentors with relevant expertise are also selected. Family members of mentors may join under specific conditions.
-
What is the payment schedule for the program?Participants receive a payment schedule at General Orientation. Total trip cost is divided between December 1 and April 1 of each year that so participants have smaller payments due each month rather than any balloon payments. Payments must be made on time, with a $25 late fee assessed for each late payment.
-
Can family members of mentors join the international trip?Yes, family members can join if space allows. However, secondary school or college-aged family members must apply and meet all program requirements. Children of parent mentors will not be in the same room or committee.
-
What are the costs associated with the program?Costs include a $500 non-refundable deposit, international service trip expenses (airfare, in-country transport, accommodations, food, major medical insurance), and personal expenses. Costs can be found on each country’s landing page. Financial aid may be available.
-
What are the requirements for local service?Participants must complete 80 local service hours, with at least 40 hours at a MAIN SERVICE SITE. Hours must be logged and approved by June 1st.
-
What happens if Youthlinc cancels or postpones a trip?If Youthlinc cancels or postpones a trip, the $500 deposit remains non-refundable. Participants may be required to make up any shortfalls in payments for alternative or postponed trips.
-
What is the Youthlinc Service Year Program?The Youthlinc Service Year Program is a service-leadership program that combines local volunteer work with an international service trip. It aims to instill a humanitarian ethic in young people while promoting understanding among divers communities.
-
What is the policy on divergent itineraries?Divergent itineraries for tourism or other activities unrelated to the service trip are discouraged and require a waiver. Youthlinc is not responsible for any issues related to divergent travel.
-
Are there any tax benefits associated with the program?Direct donations to Youthlinc are tax-deductible. Costs directly related to the service trip may also be tax-deductible; participants should consult their tax advisor for personal tax advice.
-
What happens if I have to withdraw from the program?The $500 deposit is non-refundable. Payments made for the international trip are also non-refundable if withdrawal occurs after certain deadlines. The refund policy details are outlined on the Youthlinc website.
-
How can I find a MAIN SERVICE SITE for local service?Participants can use the Youthlinc Local Service Directory to find a MAIN SERVICE SITE. The site must be approved by the Assistant Team Leader to ensure it meets program criteria.
-
What if I need additional support or have further questions?Participants and their families are encouraged to contact the Youthlinc office directly for additional support or questions not covered in the FAQ.
-
What if I cannot meet the local service requirements?Failure to meet the service requirements by the deadline may result in dismissal from the program. Participants will be given warnings and may be asked to complete a Low Service Hour Plan of Action. Youthlinc gives an incredible amount of support to help you achieve this requirement.
-
How are participants selected for the program?Selection is based on an application review focusing on a sincere desire to serve, reliability, teamwork, and relevant skills or experiences. An application does not guarantee acceptance.
-
Are there any specific vaccinations or health precautions required before traveling?The required and recommended vaccinations and health precautions are provided during General Orientation and varies by country. Participants are responsible for obtaining recommended vaccinations and following health advisories specific to the destination. Youthlinc provides a consultation with the University of Utah Travel Healthy Clinic so that all participants have access to information relevant to their international destination and individual health situations. Check your country specific team manual for additional details.
-
What safety measures are in place for international travel?Youthlinc prioritizes safety by providing comprehensive pre-trip training, including health and safety protocols. Participants receive guidance on vaccinations, safety precautions, and emergency procedures. Travel insurance covers major medical issues.
-
What happens in case of a medical emergency abroad?Youthlinc has protocols for handling medical emergencies, including access to local medical facilities and coordination with travel insurance providers. Participants are also provided with a contact list for emergency support.
-
How does Youthlinc ensure that participants are culturally prepared for their international service experience?Youthlinc provides cultural training as part of the pre-trip curriculum. This includes information about local customs, cultural norms, and expectations to help participants interact respectfully and effectively.
-
What should my child do if they experience homesickness or emotional distress during the trip?Participants are encouraged to communicate any issues they face. Youthlinc provides support through Team Leaders and staff who can offer guidance and assistance. Regular check-ins and group discussions help address emotional concerns.
-
How does Youthlinc handle participant discipline and behavior issues abroad?Youthlinc has a code of conduct that participants are expected to follow. Any behavior that endangers the participant or others, or is contrary to Youthlinc’s values, may result in disciplinary action or dismissal from the program.
-
What support is available to help my child meet the local service requirements?Youthlinc provides guidance and resources to help participants find and log local service hours. Each participant has access to a Dashboard account where they can track their hours and get approval. There are also workshops and meetings to assist with finding suitable service sites.
-
What happens if a participant fails to complete the required local service hours?Participants who do not meet the local service requirements by the June 1st deadline risk dismissal from the program. They may be required to complete a Low Service Hour Plan of Action and could be excluded from the international trip.
-
How does Youthlinc ensure that local service sites are safe and appropriate?Youthlinc vets all local service sites to ensure they meet safety and program standards. MAIN SERVICE SITES must provide hands-on service in a positive mentoring environment. Participants must also get approval from their Assistant Team Leader for their chosen site.
-
What kind of support is available during the international service trip?Participants are accompanied by highly trained Youthlinc Team Leaders, adult mentors, and a medical professional (MD, RN, paramedic EMT). The program includes on-site support, including medical assistance, local guides, and coordination with local organizations.
-
How does Youthlinc select and prepare international service sites?Youthlinc works with local partners and organizations to select service sites that align with the program's goals and are in genuine need. Preparation includes site visits, cultural training, and safety briefings for participants.
-
What is included in the cost of the international service trip?The cost covers airfare, in-country transportation, accommodations, food, water, major medical and travel insurance (excluding trip cancellation insurance), and Youthlinc program fees. It does not cover personal expenses, such as toiletries or souvenirs.
-
Are donations to Youthlinc tax deductible?Yes, donations to Youthlinc are tax-deductible. Youthlinc is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means all contributions made to it are eligible for tax deduction according to IRS regulations. This includes donations to your own trip cost. Be sure to keep your donation receipts for your records and consult with a tax advisor to understand how to properly claim your deductions. According to IRS regulations all donations that are NOT made directly by a participant or a parent of a participant who is a minor, by law are non-refundable.
-
What is the process for applying for financial aid, and how does it affect the overall cost?Participants can apply for financial aid by following the guidelines provided through their Dashboard when they register. Financial aid is allocated based on need and availability, and awarded amounts are subtracted from the participant’s overall costs. Recipients are notified in December.
-
Can participants fundraise for their trip, and how are the funds managed?Participants are encouraged to fundraise for their trip. Fundraising contributions are managed through individual social fundraising pages. Youthlinc does not manage funds for divergent travel and cannot refund money donated specifically for airfare if the participant diverges
bottom of page