We live in a global society. As a result, many of us feel connected to communities around the world. It's this connection that often leads to a desire to get involved overseas.
Volunteering overseas can help you discover a passion for social justice. It allows you to share and learn skills. And it can feed an interest in discovering new places and cultures.
Many international organizations, relief agencies and exchange programs offer volunteer assignments that can range from one week to two years. This kind of volunteering is sometimes called "voluntourism."
These overseas volunteer experiences can change your world view. You'll get to cross oceans and borders. You'll see your role as a global citizen.
Some companies offer volunteer vacation programs. This means the company helps with travel expenses and gives extra time off for a voluntourism trip. Often, the business will donate to the overseas project.
Many high schools, colleges and universities offer international volunteer programs. Often, the volunteer trip takes place during the spring break or summer holiday.
Finding the right match is important for all volunteer experiences, but with the travel and cost of voluntourism, it's important to research and plan your overseas volunteer trip carefully.
Organizing a trip can be complicated, but it's a great way to learn about yourself and the world. You'll be a part of building a stronger global community.
Important things to consider include:
Travel arrangements
Accommodations
Training and support
Reputation of the organization
On the surface, international volunteering and "voluntourism" seems winwin: you support the local people, you learn a new culture and you get to see the world. The reality can sometimes be different and there are ethical issues to consider.
For starters, check out the Lonely Planet guide to international voluntouring.
You can also get involved internationally without leaving Canada. Most international organizations have local volunteer programs.
