Volunteer Global

Happy New Year, all! How many of you put “travel more” on your resolutions list this time around? And how many of you said you’d like to give back in some way—whether it’s donating to a worthy cause, giving some time in your community, or even taking an honest-to-goodness volunteer vacation?

Well, as you know, we’re here to guide you on all of the above—so today, let’s talk about five ways to get started in planning a volunteer trip abroad! And stay tuned throughout this upcoming month for more travel tips, stories, and other fun stuff to look forward to in 2012!

Why do you want to go?

Before you start on a volunteer project, consider your reason for going. Would you like to emphasize “volunteer” or “vacation,” or have an equal mix of both? The answer will make or break your trip.

If you want to see a real difference in the work you’re doing, short-term volunteer vacations aren’t always the best route. Of course your help is needed—but remember, you’re one of many short-term volunteers all working toward a long-term goal. If it’s important to see the impact of your project, try finding a volunteer group that keeps in touch with their alumni through social networks, newsletters, and more!

How much will your trip cost?

When you budget for a volunteer abroad trip, keep in mind the application fee (if there is one), the project fee, immunizations, insurance, airfare, personal expenses, and other travel you might embark on during, before, or after the project.

Where do you want to go?

If you don’t have a specific place in mind, think about what kind of climate you’re comfortable with, or a culture in which you’d like to immerse yourself.

Regardless of where you go, it’s up to you to make the most of your trip. Do some research on your host community, and make sure you’re willing to acclimate to their culture and local laws!

What do you want to do?

With the rise of volunteer travel over the past several decades, there’s no shortage of projects to choose from—

whether you want to teach, work with children, care for animals, map trails, build small businesses, or really anything else you can think of, there’s something for everyone.

So to help narrow down your search, think about:

• What level of physical fitness might be required
• How much background experience you need in the project area
• What type of project you’re comfortable taking on, and how much of a commitment is needed (e.g., whether you’re there for a short-term program, whether you’ll work for eight hours per day, whether you’re needed on weekends, etc.)

Who do you need to talk to?

Now that you’ve got an idea of your budget and your expectations, it’s time to talk to a volunteer coordinator.
This is super important—they’ll help clear up any questions you might have, point out some things you might not have considered, and get the application process rolling. They’ll give a face to a host group before you book your trip—and perhaps most importantly, they’ll communicate their expectations of volunteers, and how you’ll fit into the community’s goals while working alongside your hosts.

A final note

While you’re doing a favor by providing voluntary service, your host community is providing a service by giving you food and shelter—and teaching you valuable skills you may not have learned without their help and accommodation. So try to keep an open mind, enjoy your trip, and let us know how it goes!