There are so many international volunteer programs that it can be difficult to make your way through all the brochures and websites detailing the myriad of options. The following tips can help you make an informed decision about which program may be right for you.
Finding a Volunteer Trip: Guidelines for Scouting
First things first, think about the logistics. Length? Location? Skills? Is accommodation pre-arranged with a host family? In addition to considering logistics such as costs and length of volunteer stay, also keep in mind the philosophical issues of each organization.
One of the benefits of volunteering overseas is that most organizations provide training, coordination of logistics and travel paperwork as part of the upfront costs. These costs usually cover lodging, orientation, and the program. Some even provide excursion activities so volunteers can see local attractions. Luckily, most organizations provide plenty of opportunities for fundraising, allowing volunteering overseas to be an affordable way to travel.
Long-Term Volunteering Abroad: A Few Organizations to Look At
One of the most recognizable volunteering overseas organizations is the Peace Corps. Assignments typically include teaching, environmental education, and business. There is usually a modest salary and an end of service payment as well as excellent health care and good language training. On the other hand, volunteers are not given a choice of where to go and there is a substantial length in service.
World Teach is a non-profit volunteer overseas organization which provides volunteer teachers in developing countries. Volunteers commit to teach for one year (there is also a two-month summer option), and applicants decide which program to apply for. While volunteers earn a monthly living stipend there is a hefty price tag.
A Short-Term Volunteer Trip
There are many organizations which provide programs in as little as two weeks. There short-term programs are usually easier to arrange and require less preparation.
Cross-Cultural Solutions provides volunteer programs lasting from one to twelve weeks long with year-round start dates. The focus is primarily in the areas of social services, education and health with opportunities for service in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe and Latin America.
If you’re looking for a unique travel opportunity, look at one of i-to-i’s many programs. Help maintain biodiversity with indigenous peoples in Costa Rica or care for endangered wallabies in Australia. You’ll have the unique opportunity to become part of the local community and have an authentic cultural experience that you may not get backpacking or staying in a hostel.
The Benefits of Volunteering Overseas
Volunteering overseas can provide excellent resume building characteristics and with a tough job market this type of work experience is becoming an attractive option these days for college students and recent graduates. The skills gained while volunteering overseas are all skills the job market looks for. Communication aptitude, ability to work as part of a team, flexibility and adaptability are important characteristics to include in your job applications and are honed when volunteering abroad.
In addition to building character, volunteering overseas can provide career development. For example, a marine biology student can monitor turtles in Costa Rica or a social science student could work with HIV/AIDS patients in Ghana. All of these positions provide hands-on experiences not found stuffing envelopes for a summer internship.
Volunteering overseas develops an open mind as it brings exposure to other world views. There are opportunities to improve fluency in a foreign language, make new and interesting friends and provides the opportunity to give back. See and experience the world with a purpose.
Sara Rossini - I am a Los Angeles based native Californian, and self-confessed travel addict whose mission is to help people maximize their travel ...
