[Photo courtesy of Projects Abroad/ Conservation Mexico.]

Volunteering abroad has become increasingly popular. It can be a great way to give something back and explore new areas. But it’s not for everyone. So how can you find out if you’d enjoy and where should you start? Well, first you need to ask yourself a few questions:

1. So why do you want to volunteer?
   There are usually two types of answers to this question: because you think it will look good on your CV/college application sort of answer, which is perfectly valid. Or you really want to give something back and learn about a different culture/ community/ location.

   Both answers are fine because either way you are volunteering. But it’s important to be honest about why you want to do it because it will help determine how to pick a volunteer program that appeals to you.

   Some volunteer programs are free and will even help pay for your ticket out there. They may also offer you accommodation and some set meals. These sorts of programs are good for those who are on a strict budget but want to give back while abroad.

   Other programs require you to pay a fee. Don’t worry, it’s not a scam if they require you to pay - although there are bogus volunteer programs, so do your research. The money goes towards a number of administrative costs and some of it usually filters back into the project you are working on. Legitimate programs are pretty up front about any costs.

2. Can you commit to a project?
   Programs range from a single weekend to several years. It’s up to you how long you want to commit to, and you’re bound to find a program that matches your needs. In many ways, the non-profit industry is just like any other industry: full of scheduling, paperwork, bureaucracy, organizing personnel, and determining costs. They need to know how and when you are going to join them.

   You should approach volunteering abroad as if you were actually going to be paid by an employer. The program or company you are with will usually provide you with a lot of information about the project you will be on, but they are not a travel agency and shouldn’t be treated like one. Try to avoid cancelling flights, not turning up when you are scheduled to work, and basically avoid behaviour that wouldn’t be acceptable if you were a paid employee.

3. What skills do you have?
   There is a huge range of volunteer projects for a variety of skills. Decide whether you want to try something that you know you’re good at but don’t get to do everyday or use your employable skills.

   In terms of trying something new for example, if you got your Life Guard Certificate when you were in college but never actually used it, now is your chance to go and teach children how to swim in Honduras. Or if you love your job as a web designer, try doing that for a new non-profit organization in need of a great website.

   There are also a number of volunteer jobs that don’t require any transferable skills, so you’re bound to find something you can and want to do.

Think about the above questions and start looking for a program. There are hundreds of programs to pick from and you can find a lot of good information on the net. You might also come across areas that you didn’t know about or positions that require skills you didn’t even realize were in demand, so try to keep an open mind.

The following sites can help you get started:

• Idealist.org: The site lists non-profit opportunities, as well as volunteer positions. It’s also a good source of information about different projects around the world and how people have made volunteering abroad into a life-style choice.
• Volunteer Abroad: Their Go Nomad search engine can filter according to duration, country and skill.

Make sure to come back next week to learn about doing good abroad through sponsored trips!

Related Articles