Question 1

Can I volunteer abroad for free?

Accepted Answer

Here’s the deal—you probably can’t volunteer abroad for free. Although this immediately sounds counterintuitive, there’s actually a great reason for it, and that reason is resources. See below for more information.

Why You Can’t Volunteer Abroad for Free

Question 2

Why is volunteering abroad so expensive?

Accepted Answer

Organizations that are working in areas of great need are typically strapped for funds. It’s expensive for organizations to help you find a placement, secure housing, provide support, and coordinate logistics on the ground. If a program were free, that would mean all of that money required to host volunteers would be funneled out of the local economy and away from the issues you’re there to help solve.

On that note, however, you should be wary of volunteer organizations that are primarily businesses. Before choosing a program, you’ll want to do your due diligence and ensure you’re not indirectly perpetuating harmful voluntourism practices.

Questions to Ask Before Volunteering Abroad

Question 3

How to find volunteer abroad scholarships

Accepted Answer

You may know why it costs money to volunteer abroad, but that doesn’t mean you can necessarily afford it. We hear you! Believe it or not, there are scholarships for volunteering abroad. You can also try to secure funding for your trip through a Facebook Fundraiser, or crowdfunding platforms like FundMyTravel.

Question 4

Can I find programs like the Peace Corps and Americorps?

Accepted Answer

Yes! There are lots of volunteer programs abroad that have projects similar to those in the Peace Corps, and many organizations in the United States doing work similar to Americorps. The main difference is that you (probably) won’t get the same benefits associated with Peace Corps and Americorps, like college tuition and returnee stipends. However, if there’s a project in the Peace Corps that you’d love to work on but you can’t realistically commit two years abroad, try searching for something similar in our directory. You’ll probably find some great contenders!

Question 5

Are there requirements to volunteer abroad?

Accepted Answer

The requirements to volunteer will depend on the program or organization you’re interested in volunteering through. In general though, you’ll need to fill out an application or interest form online, have an interview with a coordinator, and have a valid passport. Additionally, you’ll need to apply and pay for your visa, and purchase your flights. Your program may provide pre-departure support to assist you with the logistics.

Question 6

What are some benefits of volunteering abroad?

Accepted Answer

There are many benefits of volunteering abroad! Of course, there are the usual benefits that are involved with traveling abroad, like broadened horizons and a better understanding of the world at large. However, the primary benefit of volunteering abroad isn’t for you, but for your host community. When volunteering abroad is done right and sustainably, the work you do during your placement will have a lasting impact on your host destination.

What Are the Benefits of Volunteering Abroad?

Question 7

What are the best volunteer abroad programs like?

Accepted Answer

With so many volunteer opportunities around the world, how do you choose the best one for you? First, you’ll want to narrow down your goals and plan accordingly. Which issues abroad are the most important to you? How much time can you commit to volunteering abroad? (Hint: The longer the better!)

However, the best volunteer abroad programs also come down to their impact. The best organizations are run sustainably—which means they aren’t perpetuating local issues in order to make money. That would in fact be the antithesis of meaningful travel. Do research on your top program choices to make sure they’re adhering to ethical policies, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about their practices. Then you’ll know you haven’t only chosen the best volunteer program for you, but one of the best volunteer programs for the world.