Volunteering abroad is one of the most rewarding experiences a person can have.
It offers a chance to make a real difference in the world, while also gaining a new perspective on life.
But what if you want to take the plunge and make it a reality?
How do you go about it?
In this article, we will outline the steps necessary to make volunteering abroad a reality.
Before we find the best volunteer abroad programs for you, open a document and get ready to write.
The idea of this guide is for you to take action and make it happen right now!
1.- Let’s start with why you want to volunteer abroad?
There are many reasons to volunteer abroad, but some of the most common are the desire to help others, animals and the environment.
Whether you want to work in community development, animal care, or environmental causes, there are volunteer opportunities available that will allow you to make a difference.
In addition to the satisfaction of helping others, a volunteer abroad program can also be a great way to:
– learn new skills,
– gain work experience,
– and even earn college credit.
Plus, it’s a great way to see the world, learn about new cultures, taste delicious local food and meet other fellow international volunteers!
So, the first step towards your volunteer abroad experience is to determine why you would like to do it.
Go ahead and take a couple of minutes writing about the reasons why you’ll do it.
…
Did you do it already?
Seriously, this is a hands-on step by step guide, so start writing!
OK, let’s continue…
2.- Things to consider before going through the volunteer abroad programs
– The type of volunteer work you would like to do.
When most people think of volunteer work, they imagine helping out in a soup kitchen or cleaning up a park.
While there are certainly opportunities to do this kind of work, there are also many other options available.
Do you have a specific skill set that you would like to use?
These are some volunteer projects ideas:
- Creating home gardens
- Marine Conservation
- Working with street children
- Teaching English in local schools
- Empowering young adults
- Climate activism
- Medical volunteering
- Youth development
- Computer literacy
- Wildlife conservation programs
- many more…
If you have a specific interest, there are likely volunteer abroad programs that will allow you to pursue it.
Go ahead and make a list of your skills and interests.
– The country or region where you would like to volunteer overseas.
There are volunteer opportunities available all over the world.
Do you have a specific country or region that you would like to visit?
Or, are you open to wherever the need is greatest?
These are some of the most popular volunteer abroad destinations among international volunteers: South America, Costa Rica, South Africa, India, Nepal and the Caribbean.
Once again, there are many volunteer projects available, so it’s important to narrow down your choices.
– Your personal comfort level.
Consider your personal comfort level when choosing your volunteer work abroad and the country.
Are you comfortable living in a remote location with few comforts?
Or, would you prefer to be based in a city with access to amenities?
Write down your preferences.
– The age and qualifications needed for certain volunteer work
- Are you a high school student? a college student?
- Does the program accept only university students?
- Do you need a degree?
- Or, can anyone participate?
– The timing for your international volunteering program.
Volunteer opportunities range from days to a few weeks to a year or more.
It’s important to consider how much time you have available before making a commitment.
So, ask yourself:
- How long can you volunteer for?
- Are you going to use your gap year?
- When is the best time of the year for you to volunteer?
- Do you need a break in the middle of your volunteer program?
– Your budget: Program fees and other expenses.
You might find a free volunteer program.
But in reality, to actually produce real impact, a committed organization will use most of the money they have directly in the projects.
So, have that in mind when you are researching for a volunteer project in which you have to pay for the program fees.
Many volunteer organizations provide room and board within the program fees, there are often other expenses that need to be considered.
These can include airfare, vaccinations, and spending money.
There are also those which can afford to have some kind of scholarship in exchange for some extra work.
Be sure to consider how much money you would need for your volunteer trip.
These were some of the most important factors to consider when choosing between volunteer abroad programs.
Now, let’s continue…
3. Finding good volunteer projects
There are a few different ways to go about finding volunteer abroad opportunities.
One way is to search the internet or ask around for recommendations.
Remember to use the information you’ve gathered to make the searching process faster.
For example:
You are interested in helping rescue elephants in Africa for 2 weeks
You might search for “Volunteer abroad rescuing elephants in Africa 2 weeks program”
There are also many websites that list volunteer opportunities, such as Go Overseas, VolunteerMatch and Idealist.
Another way to find a volunteer abroad opportunity is to directly contact a Volunteer Organization.
These volunteer organizations can help connect you with a placement that suits your skills and interests.
Once you have found a few potential opportunities, it’s time to do your research and narrow down your choices to just 3-5 volunteer abroad projects.
4. Choosing the right volunteer abroad experience for you
Once you have a good idea of what you are looking for, it’s time to start reaching out to the volunteer programs and organizations.
Be sure to ask plenty of questions about the volunteer project, such as:
– What are some of the volunteer tasks I will be performing on a daily basis?
– What type of housing is provided?
– What is the program fee f0r the program?
– Are there any age or professional skills requirements?
– Is it an internship program?
– What type of visa do I need to participate?
– What kind of volunteer support will I receive?
From the 3-5 options you have gathered all of the necessary information, it’s time to make your decision and apply to a volunteer abroad program.
5. Applying for the volunteer abroad program
Most volunteer abroad programs will require you to fill out an application and provide supporting documents, such as a resume, cover letter, and letters of recommendation.
Once you have been accepted to a volunteer abroad program and paid for the program fees, it’s time to start preparing for your volunteer trip!
6. Things to consider before your trip
Be sure to check with your program to see if there are any specific requirements, such as immunizations or visas.
You will also want to begin saving money for your volunteer abroad trip, as most programs do not cover all expenses.
A good rule of thumb is to save $50-100 per week for 12-16 weeks prior to your trip.
This will give you a cushion in case of any unexpected expenses.
Not sure if you are going to be able to financially make it?
7. Things you can do to fundraise for your volunteer experience
Maybe you have a good paying job or your family can financially support you.
If not, there are a few different ways that you can fundraise for your volunteer trip.
One way is to set up a crowdfunding campaign on websites like GoFundMe or IndieGoGo.
You can also hold yard sales, bake sales, or car washes.
Getting a side hustle like dog walking or babysitting can also help you raise money for your trip.
Another option is to reach out to friends and family members to see if they are willing to donate to your cause.
8. Packing for your volunteer trip abroad
Be sure to pack light, as you will likely be doing a lot of walking.
You should also pack clothes that are comfortable and easy to wash.
Some other items you might want to bring depending on where you are going, include:
-Sunscreen
-Bug spray
-First Aid kit
-Flashlight
-Portable charger
-Locked suitcase
Make sure you pack accordingly to the weather of your program’s location.
You should definitely ask for a recommendations list.
9. What to expect when you arrive at your destination?
When you arrive at your destination, you will likely be met by a representative from your program.
They will help you get settled into your housing and orientation.
Orientation is an important part of the process as it will help you acclimate to your new surroundings and understand the expectations of the volunteer abroad experience.
During orientation, you will likely receive training in the area you will be volunteering.
For example, if you are volunteering in a medical clinic, you will receive training on how to best support the staff and patients.
After orientation, you will begin your volunteer work.
You will likely work closely with other volunteers and staff members to complete your tasks.
At the end of your trip, you will have the opportunity to reflect on your experience.
This is a great time to think about what you have learned and how you can use your new skills in the future.
10. How to make the most of your volunteer abroad experience?
Volunteering abroad is a great way to gain new skills and experience.
To make the most of your experience, be sure to:
– Stay open-minded and flexible
– Be patient and understand that things may not always go as planned
– Be respectful of the culture and customs of your host country
– Be willing to step out of your comfort zone
– Keep a positive attitude
11. Aftercare and returning home
Once you have finished your volunteer abroad program, it is important to take some time for aftercare.
This means taking care of yourself both physically and emotionally in the weeks and months following your return.
Make sure to rest and relax, as well as process all that you experienced during your time away.
Journaling is always a good way to ensure that the memories you’ve acquired are transformed into long lasting knowledge.
Bonus: Still not so sure where to start?
Here at Richmond Vale Academy, we pride ourselves of having two of the best international volunteer programs in the world.
With our base in St. Vincent & the Grenadines in the Caribbean, we offer a 6-month Climate Change Activist Program and a 10-month Community Development Program that are suited for everyone.
If you’re interested in volunteering abroad, don’t wait any longer!
Visit our volunteer programs page and contact us. We will be waiting for you!
Happy volunteering!