Volunteering overseas is hugely popular especially with people planning gap years. It’s rewarding, looks good on the old CV and is definitely more of a challenge than sitting on a beach drinking beer.
But there are things you need to know before signing up to a volunteering project and there are lots of organisations out there, all clamouring for your attention, but not all of them tell you what you need to know.
1. You Might Have to Pay to Volunteer
Sounds like a strange concept, but most companies that offer volunteering projects are selling volunteer projects; they can cost anything in the region of a few hundred to a few thousand pounds.
This sum usually covers flights, accommodation and food. Some organisations also charge an “admin fee” so it’s important to check exactly how much of your money is going to the actual cause.
2. It’s Possible to Volunteer Independently, For Free
You don’t have to volunteer through a professional organisation (though by doing so you’ll be guaranteed that the project is legitimate). You also have to be very proactive to independently volunteer, as there’s no experienced organisation to hold your hand.
3. You Won’t Change the World
The most difficult thing about volunteering – especially short-term volunteering – is the sense that whatever you do, it won’t be enough. If you’re a newbie volunteer, chances are the project managers won’t give you very much hands-on stuff to do, so if you’re only there for a short time. It’s easy to get frustrated.
Manage your expectations before you volunteer. Concentrate on being chatty and pleasant with the other volunteers and local people. Don’t turn up at a project expecting to revolutionise it; focus on relieving the people around you from menial tasks and work your way up from that.
4. There are TONS of Volunteer Projects to Choose From
Most organisations focus on community volunteering work with loads of different projects, from teaching sports to kids on a volunteer trip in South Africa to working in a remote village school in Ladakh on a gap year in India. Then there are the conservation projects, like volunteering with orangutans in Borneo or working at an animal sanctuary in Ecuador.
Children’s charities are one of the most challenging and rewarding to get involved with. Carly Hood organised hers independently and end up working as events and fundraising coordinator for a Disabled & Disadvantaged Children’s Charity in HCMC, Vietnam.
Be honest with yourself about the type of volunteer project that’ll suit you. If don’t like getting your hands dirty, building housing or conservation projects are probably not your bag. Equally, if small kids drive you mad, best stay away from volunteering with children!
Try and find a volunteer experience that not only suits your personality, but also benefits (if you’re lucky enough to know) your future career.
5. You’ll Meet Inspiring People
There is so much bad news in the media on a daily basis, but when volunteering you will likely meet really kind and interesting people who are all working towards the aim of doing good. These people are fountains of knowledge, take everything in, ask questions and when working closely you will likely form close bonds and make friends for life.
6. You Can Make a Lasting Legacy
When volunteering you’ll learn tons about worthwhile causes and how donations and volunteering does make a difference. You could write a blog, share images and updates on social media, or just inspire others to do something similar.
If you have any questions to ask or advice to share about volunteering abroad, feel free to comment below…