7 reasons to Volunteer Abroad

Ever get the feeling that you have a higher calling? You know... That you have a special purpose on this earth? You're not interested in the corporate world, SUVs or IPOs. In fact, if you had the chance, you would surely save the world... Well maybe not the world, but some small part of it.

Why volunteer abroad? (The video from Cross-Cultural Solutions has some answers from their volunteers!)

Volunteering abroad is one way to make a difference. Volunteering abroad is not for everyone, so before you sign up for the Peace Corps or another similar program there are a few things you should consider. Often it helps to check out information from a group like the International Volunteer Programs Association (IVPA) which provides many different resources about volunteering abroad.

1. See The World With A Purpose

Some travelers are content partying their way around the world. You, however, are looking for a more substantial experience. Volunteering not only gives you the opportunity to give back, it gives you something to do, somewhere to go, and somewhere to stay. You'll still have plenty of time for exploring local ruins or having a lager down at the pub. But one word of warning, don't set out to change the world — you'll be disappointed to learn that the world doesn't necessarily need changing. The best goal is to challenge yourself everyday, test your patience, and open your mind and heart.

2. Change Yourself

By volunteering abroad you will learn so much about yourself. You will do things that you never imagined you were capable of. The biggest difference you will notice at the end of the program will not be external but will be the difference inside of yourself. In most cases residents could do your job better, faster and more efficiently. You probably won't teach the locals how to hammer a nail, but you will share your friendship with them. Most importantly, you will be changed forever because you will have a greater understanding of another culture, you will challenge your personal limits, and you will develop friendships. Read Allan420th's touching and powerful post about his volunteer experience on GoAbroad Network.

3. Flexibility

Unlike paid employment, volunteering provides a more flexible schedule and varying time commitments. You may choose to participate in a work camp in France for two weeks, volunteer with street kids in Peru for three months, or teach school in Nicaragua for two years.

4. Build Your Resume

Many employers value volunteerism above all else. If you have volunteerism on your resume it shows that you are flexible, patient and committed. Want to learn how to communicate that to prospective employers? Check out the "Discover Your Value" series.

5. Career Development

In some cases you may find a volunteer gig in your field of study. A marine biology student could monitor turtles in Costa Rica, an engineering student may build houses in Israel, and an Archeology major may dig in Morocco. A volunteer position may give you the hands-on experience you won't get stuffing envelopes for an internship.

6. Cultural Immersion

Many travelers know where they want to go, but don't know what to do once they get there. Volunteering abroad gives your travels a purpose and an itinerary.

7. Affordable Travel

There are few travel experiences that are less expensive than volunteering abroad.

Most volunteer placement organizations charge a fee. The fee will typically cover room/board, orientation, and the program itself. Students have asked us, "Why do I have to pay to go work overseas?" Unless you are a doctor or engineer or you are planning to spend a year or two volunteering there is probably a fee to be paid. Perhaps you are going to build a school in the Philippines, the volunteer organization has to pay for building supplies, arrange the logistics of the program, provide homestays in the local village, create brochures and market their program. If the only objective was to build the school they would be better served hiring local craftsmen at a low cost and complete the project in a short time. The goal of the organization is more likely centered around providing a cultural experience for you and for the local volunteers and letting you see life in the Philippine village.

• Many volunteers cover their expenses by letter writing campaigns to family and friends, contributions from churches or student organizations and other donation driven efforts. Fundraising is a simple way to pay for a volunteer excursion abroad. By writing to family members, friends, and possibly teachers about your opportunity abroad, you may be surprised by the giving from these individuals to make the volunteer opportunity happen.
• Certainly one of the best sources for small scholarships or donations are local community groups tied to the region you are going to. If you are going to work in Guatemala, for example, contact either a local or national Guatemalan community organization and see how they may be able to help you. Maybe you can perform a slide show for them upon return, or speak at a function they sponsor, and they may have funds to help you help their homeland community.
• Many organizations will provide you with sample fundraising letters from past volunteers.
• Recent Building Hope volunteers held a volleyball tournament to raise cash. Volunteers have also biked across their state or cleaned up their neighborhood to raise funds.
• Visiting your church or local organizations with ties to your destination is also typically a good source of financing.

Are you ready? Check out all all the opportunities at VolunteerAbroad.com!

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