The Property Brothers star is a superfan of vacations that let you give back while you kick back — like the amazing trip to Kenya he and his fiancé Linda recently took with WE Charity, the Good Housekeeping Humanitarian Seal Holder. They talked exclusively to GH about the trip that changed their lives — and why you should try a volunteer vacation too!

Drew Scott: We wanted to get more involved with projects close to our hearts, such as working with youth and protecting our environment. As soon as we realized that we had a whole week off at the end of August — which is rare — we told our friends at WE Charity that we’d go anywhere they needed us. That brought us to Kenya where we worked on sustainable development projects.

Linda Phan: We’re really drawn to the holistic approach that WE takes on in creating positive and lasting change in communities.

DS: The water walk with the Mamas was physically grueling. If anyone isn’t already convinced of the dire need for access to clean water, walk 45 minutes in their shoes as you carry at least 30 pounds of water in a plastic barrel strapped to your forehead under the beating sun. Now do that five times a day.

LS: They took it easy on us the following day, when we had the honor of sitting with Mamas to try our hand at the craft of beading Rafiki bracelets. It was therapeutic sitting on the steps of the ME to WE artisan shop, in the morning sun, chatting with the Mamas and learning about how their craft has allowed them to make a living.

DS: Each day revealed a new emotional challenge as we got to see first-hand the effects of poverty. But more importantly, the trip was charged with hope and optimism because we experienced how progress can break the poverty cycle.

DS: Find something that you really care about and get curious! Whether your heart belongs to wildlife or coral reefs, there are so many great organizations that are making strides in those areas. You can volunteer your time, donate blood or necessities like clothing or food, and you have the power of social media to inspire others to do the same. We each have a unique skill set that can be used for good!

Visit here to donate to WE Charity’s education projects.You could also be the lucky winner of a trip to WE Day California in L.A. with the opportunity to meet a WE celebrity ambassador for an exclusive backstage experience!