For students currently in grades 6–8
Eligible for 8th grade*
*These programs are typically for students in grades 9–12, however motivated rising 9th graders will be considered
Grades 7&8
Grades 7&8
Grades 6–8
Grades 7&8
Special programs & collaborations
Custom Programs

Looking to create a custom program or collaboration?

smithsonianstudenttravel-icon

Travel programs with the Smithsonian Institution for grades 8–12

Challenge yourself academically at the world's most prestigious universities

Non-profit organization offering student travel scholarships

High school youth summit focused on public health, climate change, and equity

columbia-climate-school-icon

Campus-based climate change program for grades 9–12

Engagement & Awareness

Service Programs

Our Approach to

Service Programs

Putney Student Travel offers service programs abroad for high school and middle school students in numerous countries throughout Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the South Pacific. Putney service projects make a difference by building friendships and cultural understanding with people in our host communities through common purpose, hard work, accomplishment, and real human connections. 

We do not subscribe to the colonialist view that we are providing knowledge, resources, or improvements to struggling people that, without our participation, they and their communities would not accomplish for themselves. With seven decades of experience in educational student travel under our belts, and three decades of summer service programs, we see service as a catalyst for true friendship and understanding that one would never otherwise gain.

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Community Impact

Putney groups work alongside local people and with respected community-based organizations, connecting through purposeful work and learning across cultures. Putney’s approach to Service is aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development goals to address poverty, hunger, and inequality through efforts in education, health, the environment, social and racial justice, and community development.

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Ethical Service

Putney partners with host communities and trusted local contacts. Since developing our first Service programs in the early 1990s, our aim is always to develop long-term relationships. Projects are identified by working closely with the local governing body to assess the greatest need and potential for lasting and meaningful impact in the community.

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Personal Growth

Putney Service students step out of their comfort zone, learn and practice cultural humility, examine their own beliefs, and reflect on their own cultures while learning about another. In doing so, they broaden their perspectives, explore their sense of purpose, and tap into their leadership potential to make positive change in their home communities.

“He gained global, cultural, and socioeconomic awareness, personal growth and development, a greater sense of purpose, and an ability to impact others by giving of his time and effort.”

— Amanda & Jonathan C., Excelsior, MN

Summer 2025

Middle School Service Programs

Summer 2025

High School Service Programs

Looking for something specific?

Exploration
Service
Eligible for 8th grade*​
*These programs are typically for students in grades 9–12, however motivated rising 9th graders will be considered
Grades 7&8​
Grades 7&8​
Grades 6–8
Grades 7&8​

Why Choose Putney?

Putney has been the leader in student travel and educational summers for more than 70 years. As a family-run organization, our decades of experience, our dedication to quality programs, and the personal service you receive are unmatched.

We invite you to subscribe to hear about new programs and upcoming events, and start your path to the summer of a lifetime.