Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! Safety is our top priority at Creators of Hope. Here’s how we ensure peace of mind for every traveler:

• Secure Transport: All groups are met at Montego Bay Airport by our trusted local partners and escorted directly to Treasure Beach, a tight-knit community known for its low crime rates and welcoming spirit.
• Risk-Assessed Locations: We conduct regular safety audits of our build sites, accommodations, and travel routes in collaboration with local authorities and community leaders.
• 24/7 Support: Our team is always on-site and available, with established emergency contacts and access to vetted medical providers.

Treasure Beach is one of Jamaica’s safest areas, but we still follow strict protocols to protect every volunteer.

Jamaica experiences a tropical climate, with hurricane season typically falling between June and November. While Treasure Beach is less frequently affected by direct storms due to its southern location, we have a clear emergency protocol in place. 

Here’s how we prepare:

• • Early Evacuation: If a Category 3 or higher storm is forecast, we’ll evacuate groups at least 72 hours in advance to secure inland locations or arrange early flights home.
  • Reliable Transportation: Pre-arranged vehicles and backup routes to Montego Bay Airport or designated shelters are always in place.
  • Communication: Travelers receive real-time updates via email, SMS, and in-person from our on-site team.
  • Storm Resilience: Our accommodations and project sites are purposefully built for weather durability and flood resistance.

We monitor forecasts daily and adjust itineraries for heavy rain or tropical disturbances. Our top priority is always your safety. We also have a formal evacuation plan tailored to the severity of the storm. For full details, read our safety plan or contact us.

For each of our journeys, we tailor supervision based on group type to ensure safety and meaningful engagement.

Family Travel:

• Ages 13 and above are welcome and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Student Groups (Schools, Universities, etc.):

• A minimum of 1 chaperon per 5 students is required.
• All students are required to attend a mandatory orientation that covers safety, cultural respect, and project guidelines.
• Structured daily itineraries with designated free time only in approved areas.
• Active supervision with adults always visibly present, engaged, and circulating, not distracted by phones or socializing. This includes regular headcounts, a buddy system, room and curfew checks, and designated meeting points in case anyone ever gets separated.
• A “rule of three” policy is enforced. No adult is ever alone with a single student.
  

All participants under 18 years of age must submit a signed waiver and adhere to our Code of Conduct.

For full details on group requirements, explore our group travel policies.

Your safety is our top priority. All participants must adhere to these non-negotiable guidelines at our project sites:

• Clothing: Full-length pants and closed-toe shoes are mandatory for your protection. No sandals, shorts, or flip-flops on-site.

• Gear: Gloves and hard hats are provided and must be worn when required.

• Supervision: Minors must be accompanied by a guardian or group chaperone at all times. Student groups require a 1:5 chaperone-to-student ratio.
• Code of Conduct: Failure to comply may result in removal from the program. 

For full details, we invite you to view our safety handbook.

We recommend packing light and efficiently. You’ll need space for tools and souvenirs! Here’s the essentials list:

• Lightweight, quick-dry, breathable work clothes (long pants and sleeves for build days)
• Sturdy closed-toe trainers or boots (no sandals on-site)
• Sandals or slides for downtime (Treasure Beach = sandy toes)
• Swimsuit and summer wear (pool and beach time is mandatory!)
• Basic toiletries, reef-safe sunscreen, bug spray, and any medications you may need

Leave formalwear (you won’t need dressy outfits) and valuables at home. Pro tip: roll clothes to save space! For a full checklist, download our packing list.

All travelers stay in our private Sea Shell Villa, which offers a safe, welcoming, and scenic home base. To foster camaraderie and keep costs accessible, we provide simple, safe shared lodging.

• Student Groups: Rooms typically accommodate 4 participants, each with a bed or cot.
• Families & Adults: Shared rooms (2-4 people) or private rooms available by request.

We recommend packing light, as space is limited. Each person gets a small storage area, with secure storage available upon request.

We prioritize clean, comfortable spaces within walking distance of build sites. For a closer look, learn more about Sea Shell Villa.

Yes, if you’re a U.S. taxpayer. Creators of Hope is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. 

Generally, no. Donations made to a U.S. 501(c)(3) aren’t tax-deductible on the donor’s home country tax return.

Tax deductions for charitable giving are governed by the laws of the country where the taxpayer resides and files taxes. The U.S. tax code does not extend its benefits to foreign tax systems.

Exception: If an international donor files a U.S. tax return (for example, due to U.S.-sourced income), they may be eligible for a deduction. 

We encourage international donors to consult a tax advisor in their country to determine if any applicable deductions or tax treaties exist that may be available to them. Some countries, such as Canada, have specific treaties or procedures in place for this, but this is uncommon.

In short, while all donations are deeply appreciated and directly support our mission, tax deductibility typically applies only to U.S. taxpayers.

Lodging, meals, transportation within Jamaica, impact project materials, and cultural excursions with local guides. Airfare not included.

Yes! Ages 13 and up are welcome with a parent or guardian. We also offer specific itineraries for student groups and families.