Volunteer and Make a Difference!
November 03, 2007
By Kat Vaughan
Why not go on an adventurous vacation? Or better yet, take a volunteer vacation where you can be a force of good and do a world of good, while experiencing adventure? There are so many organizations specializing in volunteer travel vacations - some well known and others more grass roots. Having traveled and lived in Guatemala, I know the best kept secret places to volunteer are usually found on the ground - they are smaller NGO's doing a world of good yet not overt in their publicity. It is true that more and more are gaining an online presence, but you may need to go deeper into Google to find them. For those of you who like risks and adventure, simply do the following:
For those of you more risk-adverse, here are a few organizations offering volunteer holiday packages. All you need to do is apply, pay and go!
A couple hidden jewels for volunteering in Guatemala include:
In addition, Globally Minded Works has opportunities for group or individual projects. We work with schools and partners on the ground to provide life changing and life giving opportunities.
Whatever you decide, your life will be changed as we all know "it is more blessed to give than to receive". Happy giving!
Why not go on an adventurous vacation? Or better yet, take a volunteer vacation where you can be a force of good and do a world of good, while experiencing adventure? There are so many organizations specializing in volunteer travel vacations - some well known and others more grass roots. Having traveled and lived in Guatemala, I know the best kept secret places to volunteer are usually found on the ground - they are smaller NGO's doing a world of good yet not overt in their publicity. It is true that more and more are gaining an online presence, but you may need to go deeper into Google to find them. For those of you who like risks and adventure, simply do the following:
- Select a destination that intrigues you (research is always good)
- Buy a plane ticket and a Lonely Planet Guidebook, and
- Pack your belongings (light is always better), and go!
For those of you more risk-adverse, here are a few organizations offering volunteer holiday packages. All you need to do is apply, pay and go!
- Global Volunteers: They work in over 200 countries and 6 continents. Live and work amongst local people for 1-3 weeks.
- Habitat force Humanity International: Help build homes for people!
- Amigos de las Americas: Youth and college age students can travel to Latin America and volunteer in areas of health, education and environmental service projects.
- Global Vision: Expeditions, volunteer, and training projects in over 15 countries, inluding: Brazil, China, Ecuador, Mexico, Namibia, Nepal, and South Africa.
A couple hidden jewels for volunteering in Guatemala include:
In addition, Globally Minded Works has opportunities for group or individual projects. We work with schools and partners on the ground to provide life changing and life giving opportunities.
Whatever you decide, your life will be changed as we all know "it is more blessed to give than to receive". Happy giving!
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