From conservation to construction, a range of activities awaits the international volunteer. This article provides practical resources and information on "voluntourism."
Volunteering is always a worthwhile venture, and volunteering in a foreign country even more so. The benefits are various, from picking up a second language or gaining valuable work experience to simply helping others in need while soaking in a different culture.
What To Do?
The options may seem overwhelming; there is truly something for everyone! Here is a list of typical opportunities:
• Environmental causes, such as the conservation of endangered rainforests or rehabilitating wildlife.
• Health and Social development, such as caring for the sick, working at an orphanage or holding AIDS prevention or Women’s Rights workshops.
• Teaching, typically English as a second language, but also basic skills in math, science, reading/writing and computer applications.
• Construction, such as building schools or hospitals, digging wells, or helping rebuild after natural disasters.
Choosing an Organization
Organizations range from large and comprehensive to small, singly focused outfits. They may be centered on a particular cause, geared towards a specific age group or profession, or offer only short- or long-term opportunities.
Larger organizations typically offer the broadest options in destination, activity and duration, and include those you would find on a quick Google or Yahoo search, such as Cross-Cultural Solutions, Projects Abroad, or Global Volunteer Network.
For a smaller organization or particular opportunity, you can turn to websites such as Idealist or Charity Village. Searching the listings on these sites brings up options from smaller-scale organizations that do not pop up on the typical search engine. It is also a good way to find options that cater directly to your interests or skills base.
Some examples of smaller organizations are Rupununi Learners (focusing on Guyana), Volunteer Bolivia (focusing on Bolivia) or Handicap International (helping the physically challenged around the world).
Another resource is government websites that focus on international travel, employment or social services in general. Canada has several government-affiliated programs that cater both to youth (Youth Challenge International, CIDA Youth Internships) and to professionals looking for an interesting break from the usual routine (CUSO, NetCorps).
The Money Factor
There is no way to escape the fact that you will need to pay to volunteer abroad. This may seem like a paradox: why would anyone pay to work for free? The reality is that most opportunities are in the developing world, and the organizations that host them have limited budgets. They cannot afford to train, house, and feed volunteers who remain for relatively short periods while attending to their own costs. Further, these organizations are themselves providing a service; they specialize in liaising with local communities in order to find the safest and most fulfilling placements for you, the volunteer.
Nonetheless, there are many ways to alleviate your costs. Most organizations will provide help and ideas with fundraising, such as letter-writing campaigns, selling crafts or holding bake sales, and contacting local businesses for discounts on needed equipment. For help with travel costs, check out Fly For Good. This organization works to negotiate airfare discounts of 10% to 50% for non-profits and their volunteers.
