Volunteer Abroad

Tips on Volunteering Abroad

Do you love to travel and have a passion to learn first hand about a new culture? You can expand your professional skills while making a positive contribution! There are hundreds of organizations all over the world which welcome volunteers. Many groups are looking for assistance with programs focusing on social and development issues. There is something for everyone! The following tips will help you make an informed decision about which organization or type of experience will best suit your needs.

1. Decide where in the world you would like to volunteer and the type of service or program that would appeal to your own development. Organizations may offer volunteer opportunities ranging from a few weeks to two years. Decide how long you plan to be away and if you plan on further travel beyond the volunteer experience. Build all this into your schedule and budget!
   
   
2. Consider whether or not you wish to work in a small group or individually and whether you wish to be placed in a rural or urban setting.
   
   
3. Research organizations carefully and try to contact previous alumni of these programs for first-hand knowledge. Don’t be afraid to contact the organizations directly as well and ask them questions about staffing, program directions, supervision and expectations. Some organizations will require you to pay a fee. This fee assists with operational costs, food and room and board. Remember that many of these groups are not-for-profit or non-government organizations.
   
   
4. Investigate the appropriate visas, letters of permission, petitions, passports and vaccinations required. Develop some basic language skills and cultural awareness e.g., appropriate dress, gender roles, etc.
   
   
5. Recognize that in order to be accepted as a volunteer you must have more than a need or want to help. You must have language skills, leadership or training experience, be flexible and adaptable. Do not expect the experience to be like home.
   
   
6. Be sure to get a document in writing outlining the organizations expectations, your role, time of commitment, fees, benefits, insurance, vaccination information and refund policies.

Here is a list of websites that will get you started with your research. The list is by no means exhaustive. Remember to research organizations thoroughly!

Youth Employment Information – Government of Canada - Click on "International", "Working Abroad" and then "International Volunteerism"

Campusaccess.com - Database of volunteer and internship opportunities in a variety of sectors

Canada World Youth (CWY) - Offers international educational programs to youth age 17 - 24

Canadian Crossroads International – Organization that coordinates volunteer exchange programs between Canada and over 20 countries

CARE Canada – CARE Corps Abroad programs to support women fight poverty

Charityvillage.ca – Online portal for the Canadian not-for-profit sector. Great site to begin volunteering locally to get some experience!

CUSO - Organization focusing on global social justice with 2 year volunteer placements

Global Seekers Development Expeditions - International volunteer and alternative travel agency

Right to Play - Non-Government organization committed to working with children through sport development

World Health Organization – United Nations specialized agency for health