Transform Lives—Starting With Your Own.
Begin in Rhode Island, impact the world. Awaken your spirit, build skills, and travel with purpose through transformational service experiences.
Join Take a Trip Change a Life
Are you yearning to explore the world, give back to your community, and make a lasting impact?
Caritas Smile – the nonprofit arm of Take a Trip, Change a Life – bridges local action with global impact. Based in Rhode Island and active nationwide, we connect people from all walks of life to meaningful international and cultural experiences that add to work-life experience.
Through our transformative service trips, participants not only uplift communities abroad but also bring valuable skills, perspectives, and renewed purpose back to their local communities—making
Rhode Island a vibrant hub for global connection and positive change.
Join us to travel with purpose, serve with heart, and create ripple effects of kindness that stretch from your hometown to the world.
Workforce development is one of our foundation principles. Our guiding question is simple:
How can I help? Through a servant leadership mindset, we put the needs of others first while empowering participants to gain practical skills, strengthen cultural competence, and develop leadership qualities that benefit both their careers and their communities.
Ready for a journey of service and self-discovery?
Jodi, Boca Raton, Florida
When I first heard about this trip from a friend, I thought it sounded great, but it truly exceeded any expectations I had! It is the perfect combination of adventure, service and being immersed into the culture of a foreign country...Read more
Dahlia L. Delray, Florda
This trip had the perfect balance of self care, adventure, giving and community building! Our mornings began with stretching, yoga, mindfulness and journaling overlooking the breathtaking mountains of the DR! Each meal consisted of the of authentic DR foods that were prepared with love and fresh, local ingredients. Our days were packed with random acts of kindness, connecting with local children and families, and supporting local businesses. Read more...
Carrie N. Westconsin, MI
I’d rate my experience a 10 if I could. Caritas Smile trip to Dominican Republic EXCEEDED my expectations. It’s the perfect mix of service, adventure, cultural immersion, yoga/meditation, great food, singing and dancing, community, and FUN! - Read more...
“I believe that each and every one of us has the ability to do something and the thing I promised her mother was that I would use my voice...
“We are so fortunate to live in a world of material abundance that we take it for granted. This program made me realize how lucky we are in the US. My life's purpose also became clearer and more defined. Thank you Caritas Smile!.”
David Varone, Sr. Project Manager,Architect
"I never thought that spreading love, kindness and hope would be so much fun! Caritas Smile presented me with opportunities to see, feel, experience, and become a part of local and international communities. It allowed me to make a difference in someone's life - an enormous gift one can make for another. I realized that real happiness is counted by the amount of smiles you create on faces of others - that's what Caritas is set to do."
Anya Smith, Entreprenuer,
Peace Corps
"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to embark on such a profound and eye-opening adventure. Caritas Smile is a truly remarkable program, and I highly recommend it to anyone who is willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. I am eagerly anticipating my next adventure with them."
Patricia Gonzales, Leadership Development Coach
