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It is no secret that giving back is good for the soul. Helping others provides a sense of community and comradery which is why schools, churches and parents encourage children to give back. As a traveler, volunteering may not be on the top of your list of things to do. However, volunteering abroad can connect people from different backgrounds and provide a true experience in another country. You will leave your destination with a deeper connection: what is it really like to live there? What necessities do they lack? How do they view you? These are all questions you can get the answers to just by giving back. Below are some ideas to incorporate volunteering/giving back on your next vacation.
1. Hotel Sponsored Events
- In December we visited Belize and since it was close to the holidays, our hotel was holding a toy drive. Each of us packed made note of it and packed toys to bring for the drive.
2. Mission Trips
-Mission Trips are the main route for volunteering abroad. From Africa to South America, mission trips can last from as short as a week to a few months. If you have the time and the drive, this is a good way to connect with other like minded individuals while lending a hand to those in need around the world.
3. Contacting local schools
- Schools are always in need of supplies! What makes it even better is that the students & teachers are always grateful. If you are traveling with some friends, each of you can designate which small supplies you are willing to bring. We promise you will feel great afterwards!
4. Search for non-profits/volunteer organizations in the place you are visiting
- Google is amazing with the ability to produce answers to questions you otherwise would not get. Use it as a search engine to find non-profits who are looking for help for a few hours out of the day!
Volunteering doesn't have to be hard and you don't have to break the bank to do so! Just dedicate a few hours to giving back and you will leave your vacation with more of an appreciation for the land, culture and people.
Do you have any advice for volunteer travel? We would love to hear your ideas!