Making it happen
Volunteerism sparks adventurers’ wanderlust while meeting their desire to make a difference. Don’t know how to get started? Here’s a guide:
Know your needs
Before planning your trip, ask yourself if you want to be a skilled or unskilled worker. Skillsbased volunteering includes teaching, engineering and research while unskilled work varies from farming to wildlife conservation. Often, focusing your expertise in voluntary work yields more satisfactory results.
Where to go
According to Student Universe, one of the world’s leading travel companies targeting the youth, Brazil, Peru, Zambia, Costa Rica, South Africa, Thailand, Kenya and Cambodia are some of the top destinations for volunteer tours.
Language proficiency
There is a misconception that you have to be fluent in the local language to volunteer: You can still do many things with limited language skills in a foreign country. Plus, immersion is one of the best ways to study a new language.
“You don’t need to worry too much in terms of language before entering the country,” says former Lonely Planet China consultant Zheng Kaifeng. “Volunteering abroad can boost your language skill as you are more likely to push yourself to think and speak in different languages.”
Local culture
Cultural exchange is the best benefit for international volunteers, but coping with cultural differences is no easy task. Chen Zhao, marketing director of Eniutrip, a Guangzhou-based travel agency, advises volunteers to do some research before landing in a destination. “If you don’t know the local culture, especially the taboos, you are likely to face hostilities from the locals.”
Stay safe
Register with security programs organized by reputable organizations. Good agencies offer safety instructions and insurance. Avoid serving in politically unstable countries. “There’re abundant volunteer opportunities in countries like Iraq and Afghanistan, but those countries are dangerous places,” says Zheng. “South Asian countries are good places to start.” It’s necessary to stay alert wherever you go.
Related links
For unskilled travelers: Greenway China (www.greenwaychina.org) OCIVA (www.ociva.org) Gapper (www.gappernet.org) For skilled travelers: AIESEC (www.aiesec.org) HelpX (www.helpx.net) ACFID (www.acfid.asn.au) Global Focus Aotearoa (www.globalfocus.org.nz)