Short-Term Versus Long-Term Volunteering Abroad

Tue, 07/05/2011 - 08:00 | Sarah Palmer

Originally posted at GO! Overseas. Short-Term Versus Long-Term Volunteering Abroad

What you need to know:

Short-term volunteer opportunities typically last one to six weeks, and are popular with families, small groups, solo travelers.
Long-term volunteer opportunities can last up to a year (or more!), and are popular with gap year takers, career breakers, and individuals looking to expand their work experience.

When considering a volunteer abroad program, one of the first things you’ll want to take into consideration is how much time you’re willing and able to give. With this in mind, let’s take a look at short- versus long-term service programs—what you can do, where you can go, and what group might be the best fit for your interests and abilities.

SHORT TERM

Generally, short-term volunteer programs last from one to six weeks. They’re great for families, groups (student groups, church groups, etc.), professionals with limited vacation leave, and those who’d just like to try out international volunteering without a significant time commitment...