The Ultimate Beginner's Guidebook to Volunteering Overseas

The Ultimate Guide to Volunteering Overseas is full of useful information and tips for anyone interested in volunteer work overseas. From planning your trip right through to coming back home, this step-by-step guide will provide you with all the necessary information and answers you need to embark upon your volunteer adventure overseas.

Chapter 1: Volunteering Overseas

What Is Volunteering Overseas?

In this first section of the Volunteering Overseas guidebook, let’s explore the meaning of volunteering overseas. Volunteering overseas is generally an international humanitarian placement in which you spend time in communities; generally in developing countries, offering your skills and labor.

Volunteer placements overseas combine time spent volunteering with travel and the unique chance to immerse yourself in a foreign culture of an exciting new country.

Below are some examples of how volunteering abroad combines adventure and fun with the chance to make a positive impact on the people and communities you spend time with.

Volunteering overseas gives you the chance to make a positive difference in developing countries:

• Projects are available in many areas, including social and environmental.
• Destinations include: South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, China, Brazil, Thailand, Peru, Mexico and Nepal.

Volunteer work overseas combines travel, cultural immersion and time spent working while having fun:

• There will be plenty of free time which you can spend exploring the local area, hiking in the jungle or relaxing on the beach.
• While you are there to help, you are also there to enjoy sightseeing and to get to know the local people and culture. There is always the chance to be a tourist too!

Volunteering overseas gives you the chance to learn a new language:

• Volunteering in a foreign country gives you an ideal opportunity to learn a new language. If there is a language you have always wanted to learn, why not choose a project in a country where you can make that happen?
• Being fully immersed in a culture is a great way to learn a new language fast.

Volunteering overseas is about being open to other cultures:

• No matter where you travel to, you will find yourself immersed in a completely new way of life.
• From the countryside to busy cities, you will encounter first-hand the range of different people and ethnic groups living there, as well as the local traditions and history of both the country and region.
• It is a unique opportunity for you to learn how other people live day to day and join in their activities.

Why Should You Join a Volunteering Overseas Program?

Volunteering overseas can be a fulfilling and productive experience for both the volunteer and the local community. It gives the volunteer the opportunity to make a positive difference with their time, whilst also experiencing new challenges and working with a diverse range of people. Meanwhile, the local participants benefit in both the short and the long term from the skills and time you share.

Here are a few other reasons why people look to volunteer overseas:

You will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the local people and communities:

While volunteering overseas you will have the chance to make a difference to some great projects and communities in your volunteering country.

Whether working with children in need, teaching English, helping to empower women or working on sustainability issues, you are helping people work towards a brighter future.

You will also provide an economic boost to the community and host country through your visit by spending your money in the local area.

You will have the chance to really get to know a new culture and its people:

Spending time with the local people and living with a host family is a great way to learn about another culture in a natural way.

You will gain new skills:

Volunteering work overseas will equip you with new skills and experience: from on the ground local knowledge to teaching, office, health or environment-related skills.

You will make lifelong friendships:

The time spent with people in the local community and with fellow volunteers means you will develop long lasting friendships formed from shared experiences and adventure.

You will gain confidence:

It's amazing what travelling, interacting with strangers and learning a new language can do for your confidence. You will gain both self confidence and insight into your abilities which contributed to causing positive change.

You will develop a greater awareness of some of the many issues facing communities around the world:

Seeing how other people live and the struggles they face will give you a new insight into your own life and the value you place on things.

Is Volunteering Overseas For Me?

Whether volunteering overseas is suitable for you depends on your values, beliefs and approach to life. Before committing to a volunteering placement, it is very important to find out whether it is something which would suit you.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself to help you decide:

Do you enjoy helping others?

When volunteering overseas, you will be working alongside and providing help to a range of people. Your placement may involve teaching English, assisting with medical care or looking after orphaned children, so it is important that you like providing this assistance to others, and have a nurturing and caring personality.

Are you able to move outside your comfort zone?

Many of us take amenities like running water, a flushing toilet and constant electricity for granted when living at home. However, when volunteering overseas, you might find yourself in a situation where these amenities are not available so being able to move outside your comfort zone and adapt to these changes can prove vital to a successful volunteering overseas experience.

Do you have skills to share?

It is very possible to volunteer overseas without any unique skills, on projects such as working in an orphanage for example, as this simply requires your time and care. However, to really maximize your impact and make the greatest difference to communities, it is worth thinking about what unique skills you can offer.

Whether you are someone with experience in healthcare, architecture, teaching or graphic design, there are many ways you can use these skills to make a really big difference as a volunteer on projects overseas.

Do you like meeting new people?

Volunteering overseas often requires you to meet and work alongside a range of new people from diverse backgrounds. This may include the host family you stay with. So the ability to create new relationships and to be open to new people is a great advantage when volunteering overseas.

You don’t need to be the person who everyone gathers round at a party, but having the ability to be friendly and open can definitely make a big difference to the time you spend on a project.

Do you like travelling?

An enjoyment of travel and seeing new places is really important to volunteering overseas. You will most likely be based in a developing country, so being open to the associated challenges and less luxurious forms of travel than you are normally used to can be a big help.

Do you have the time and money needed to spend time volunteering overseas?

Unfortunately, volunteering overseas projects are not free. The costs, including visas, airfares, vaccinations and program fees, can run from hundreds into thousands of dollars. So before you embark on a project abroad, make sure you have both the necessary funds and the time available to give to the project.

What Are The Most Popular Project Types When Choosing To Volunteer Overseas?

With so many different countries and project types available for volunteers looking to spend time overseas, it can sometimes feel overwhelming trying to make a decision. Projects range from orphanage assistance programs to teaching, wildlife conservation and health programs.

Below is a list of some of the most common types of volunteering overseas projects:

Working with children

Working with children remains the most popular volunteering overseas project. There are a variety to choose from and may include working with AIDS orphans in Africa, the street kids of La Paz in Bolivia and all present their unique challenges and rewards.

The primary mission of these projects is to provide a safer and more secure environment for vulnerable children to grow up in. Overseas volunteers may use their time to teach children basic English, life skills or simply build their confidence and provide a friendly face away from their daily challenges.

Teaching English

Teaching English is another very popular choice for overseas volunteering, and you can find projects working with individuals from a range of age groups; including children and adults. Volunteers assist with lesson preparation, lesson delivery and general classroom assistance.

The primary mission of these overseas volunteer programs is to teach English reading, writing and speaking skills at primary or secondary level and help equip students with the ability to speak in the world’s most widely used language.

Healthcare

Medical and healthcare overseas volunteer projects give volunteers the opportunity to put their skills to use in a range of fields from pediatrics to disease prevention and malaria clinics.

Assisting local practitioners, you will work with local people to help improve health and reduce the level of disease present within communities. Overseas volunteer healthcare projects can be some of the most rewarding, but also most challenging for volunteers as you will be operating in conditions and facilities often much more poorly equipped than those in the US or Europe.

However, they give you the chance to really see first-hand the positive difference you have made on the ground.

Women’s empowerment

Projects working with women to bring about positive changes to communities are increasingly common and aim to help equip female leaders with the skills required to deliver change for their communities.

In these overseas volunteer projects, volunteers may offer help and training in areas such as language, business skills and the production of handicrafts and jewelry to help empower women economically.

The goal is to help women overcome obstacles such as poverty, whilst providing positive sources of help and leadership.

Wildlife conservation

Wildlife conservation is also a very popular choice amongst overseas volunteer programs. There is a large range of projects available in these areas

They include conservation projects focusing on the survival of specific species, the development of eco-tourism projects for communities based around wildlife, and the protection of eco-systems in general; especially in defending against increasing threats from logging and other extractive industries.

In these programs, overseas volunteers will embark upon a range of activities including research, animal tracking and tagging, data collection, tree planting, educating local communities and construction.

Building projects

Many volunteers choose to join projects building schools, orphanages and other buildings for local communities. These offer volunteers real hands on experience and the opportunity to see the impacts of their work immediately.

Whilst previous construction experience is not generally required, it is helpful if volunteers are physically fit.

Popular Overseas Volunteering Destinations: Country Profiles

Volunteering overseas opportunities are available in many countries across the world. However, due to factors such as price, safety, available projects and the opportunity to travel, a few countries feature as the most popular choices for volunteering overseas.

Listed below are a few of the most popular countries:

Nepal

Nestled in the breath taking Himalayas, Nepal is a beautiful country and home to a range of diverse ethnic and cultural groups.

This small country to the North of India remains one of the most popular destinations for volunteers and with the chance to work on a wide range of projects whilst situated amongst some of the world’s greatest scenic landscapes, it’s not hard to see why.

Overseas volunteer programs available include healthcare, teaching, orphanage work and conservation.

China

A land of mystery with a rich history stretching back thousands of years, China remains an extremely popular volunteering destination.

An overseas volunteering placement in China offers you the chance to witness first-hand the remarkable transformation of the country as it embraces modernity whilst holding true to its rich and ancient past.

Popular programs include working with pandas and teaching placements.

Thailand

Well known for its amazing beaches and welcoming people, Thailand remains a popular destination for those doing volunteer work overseas.

You will have the opportunity to discover the countries rich Buddhist heritage and see its magnificent golden temples whilst also getting involved in its famous nightlife.

Overseas volunteer projects in the country include childcare, teaching, medical projects and elephant conservation work.

Vietnam

A country which suffered greatly at the hands of war, Vietnam has transformed itself in recent decades with an economic revival and cultural blossoming that draws more and more visitors each year.

With its warm-natured people, rolling hills, bio-diverse deltas and white sandy beaches, Vietnam’s popularity will only grow.

Orphanage programs remain the most common overseas volunteering opportunities in the country, but there are also opportunities to teach English to monks and other primary students.

Ghana

In this beautiful West African country, volunteers will be confronted with a rich and vibrant culture. With its distinctive national dress, amazing local food and great music, Ghana is proving to be an increasingly attractive place for tourists and overseas volunteers alike.

Volunteers here will have the opportunity to work on a range of projects including teaching, orphanages, work in the field of human rights and journalism as well as HIV/AIDS prevention programs.

Tanzania

From the snow-capped peak of Kilimanjaro to the game-filled plains of the Serengeti, Tanzania is a land of great beauty. It remains a popular destination for volunteers as a result of its range of diverse cultures and wildlife.

Popular overseas volunteer programs here include teaching, healthcare and HIV/AIDS programs as well as working with the women of the Maasai tribe.

Namibia

An undiscovered jewel of Africa, Namibia is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With a land area three times the size of the United Kingdom and with less than 2 million inhabitants, this sparsely populated country offers great opportunities to spot a range of wildlife and enjoy some incredible sights.

Popular overseas volunteering projects include teaching and nature conservation.

Peru

A country with an incredibly rich history and range of cultures, Peru is a great place to spend time as a volunteer. With amazing access to the Andes and the rich history of the Inca Empire, overseas volunteers in Peru can work alongside street kids, teaching English or on healthcare projects.

You won’t be short of activities to do in your free time either with opportunities to embark on hiking trips in the Andes or explore the Amazon forest.

Brazil

A huge country which contains the largest area of the Amazon forest of any South American nation, Brazil truly is an amazing place to spend time in. It offers great outdoor activities alongside a huge array of cosmopolitan and vibrant cities.

With its famous nightlife, music and sandy beaches Brazil is certainly not a place in which you will find yourself bored.

Popular volunteer overseas projects include working with the street children of Brazil’s largest cities in the many favelas which sit as the edge of Rio and Sao Paolo, as well as conservation programs in the country’s Amazon forest.

Honduras

A gem of Central America, Honduras boasts a range of diverse eco-systems from rich coastline to lush jungle interiors.

Honduras welcomes volunteers to a range of overseas volunteer projects including coastal conservation work and also community development programs with some of its poorer inhabitants.

India

A well-known and incredibly popular travel destination for generations, India remains one of the most sought after locations for overseas volunteers.

With its huge range of scenery including deserts, mountains and jungle, India is also a country brimming with history and spirituality. Ancient traditions and well-preserved customs sit alongside modern practices as India undergoes rapid development in the information and technology sectors.

Volunteering here offers some of the most rewarding work possible but also a range of challenges. With sky-high child poverty rates and a huge problem with youngsters missing out on primary education, you can find a large range of projects which focus on helping vulnerable kids and providing basic education to those unable to otherwise access it.

Cambodia

In the heart of South East Asia, Cambodia is becoming increasingly popular with tourists and volunteers alike. With beautiful scenery and people known for their hospitality, Cambodia is a great place to join a volunteer program overseas.

Popular projects include working in orphanages, on HIV/AIDS projects and in general community development schemes.

Sri Lanka

Renowned for its amazing natural habitats and ancient Tamil culture, Sri Lanka is a beautiful country. The friendly locals and sunny climate draws many volunteers to Sri Lanka as does the opportunity to work on a range of overseas volunteer projects including teaching English and on elephant rehabilitation programs.

Kenya

As one of the most well known travel destinations in Africa, Kenya is a real treasure. With a huge range of tribal groups and different cultures, there is a huge amount to learn here.

From the pristine beaches of the Indian Ocean to its majestic mountains inland, you will have plenty to fill your free time. Wildlife is abundant with 18 national parks home to a rich array of species.

As with other African volunteer placements, you can devote time to an orphanage or spend time working with AIDS/HIV patients. There is also plenty of demand for those with medical skills to work alongside local practitioners in their communities.

Uganda

From luscious jungle to plains, Uganda has a huge range to offer intrepid volunteers. With its access to the magnificent Lake Victoria and bustling nearby city of Kampala, there is something on offer for everyone here; especially those with a fascination for mountain Gorilla which can be spotted in the forested highlands.

Here you can spend time volunteering overseas teaching English, or working in an orphanage.

South Africa

Remaining one of the most popular volunteer destinations in Africa, this nation has a huge array of wildlife to offer from elephants in the north to huge colonies of penguins off the southern Cape and the chance to witness magnificent annual great white shark feeding sessions off the coast.

With unique plant species not found anywhere else on earth and a unique history, it isn’t hard to see why so many flock to South Africa.

Popular overseas volunteer projects include working with vulnerable kids in one of its many sprawling cities or wildlife conservation in rural areas.

Costa Rica

A true tropical treasure, Costa Rica is a definite contender for the title of jewel in the Central American crown, and remains the most popular volunteering abroad destination in the region.

Known for its bio-diverse forests and great adventure opportunities, you can spend free time hiking, playing golf or exploring some of its beautiful beaches.

Conservation projects are particularly popular in Costa Rica and a wide range of opportunities are available in these areas.

Ecuador

A fascinating country nestled to the south of Columbia, Ecuador has a great deal to offer the overseas volunteer. Encompassing both the mountainous areas of the Andes as well as large expanses of Amazonian forest, there is a lot for the nature enthusiast to see here including amazing natural parks located on the country’s eastern border with Peru.

Popular overseas volunteering projects here include working with street kids as well as conservation work both in Ecuador’s jungle and coastal regions.

Guatemala

Another amazing destination in Central America, Guatemala offers the same diversity as Honduras and Costa Rica. With its rich Mayan history, there is enough here to keep history buffs busy for years.

Volunteers on overseas volunteer programs can undertake a range of activities including reforestation, cultural preservation and women’s empowerment programs as well as English teaching.

Mexico

A well-known and often misunderstood country to the South of the United States, Mexico has a huge amount to offer the volunteer and tourist alike. From amazing beaches on its Pacific and Gulf coastlines to amazing ancient ruins dotted through the country, including the former capital of the Aztec Empire, there is a lot to see in Mexico.

There are opportunities to volunteer in teaching programs as well as working alongside special needs students and helping on animal conservation programs.

Chapter 2 Volunteer Overseas: Choosing the Right Volunteer Organization

With so much choice available when looking for volunteering overseas organisations, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. Out of the thousands available when researching online, it is very important you are able to narrow them down and make an informed decision on which one to go with, as making the wrong choice could have a serious impact on the experience you come away with.

Volunteering Overseas: Deciding Which Organization to Volunteer With

Check the organization’s website

This should be your first step and is an easy way to get a picture of the organization and to see how credible they are. Be on the lookout for clearly-presented and well-written information. There should not be spelling or grammatical mistakes and you should find a clear ‘About’ section which gives some background information to the organization and, very importantly, their aims.

You can also look for evidence of their current programs supported by photographic records and previous overseas volunteers’ testimonials. There may also be linked social media accounts including Twitter and Facebook. On these social media accounts, look for recent updates and the way in which the organization communicates with its followers. This can often give you a good idea about how they treat their volunteers.

Check the programme costs

Are they reasonable? The different fees charged by organizations can be confusing when you first start researching; however, you should soon get a feel for what is a reasonable rate for a volunteering overseas programme.

With fees ranging from $300 to $3000 for a 2-week period, choosing the right organisation can have a big impact on your wallet and, ultimately, how much money you will be left with to spend whilst you are out on your placement.

Some volunteering overseas organisations are motivated purely by profit and often act as middle men taking a cut of the money whilst offering the volunteer very little in return. It is important you are aware of this and look for organizations which state very clearly how they use their funds.

Of special interest should be the proportion of money given to the local communities and host families where the project is based and how much is kept by the company. ‘Admin fees’ and other hidden costs are also common, so check the small print for these as well.

Check reviews and ratings for the organization.

As part of your online research, it can be useful to try and find some reviews from previous overseas volunteers. This will help you get a better idea of how the organization is run and the reputation it has built amongst those it works with.

If an organization has a lot of negative reviews, it might be worth thinking about choosing a different one. This is especially the case if a series of reviews consistently point to the same problems. It’s also a good idea to check how many years they have been in business; the longer an organisation has been operating the more experience they will have.

Communicating with the organisation

This is an important stage in making your decision on which organisation to volunteer overseas with. Good communication channels and a timely response to enquiries is often an indication of an organisation’s experience and professionalism. After sending your initial email expressing interest in volunteering overseas, you should expect a response within 1-2 days. You should then ask yourself: did it sound professional and did it make sense? If an official email you receive from the organisation is full of spelling and grammatical errors, then you might want to think twice about moving forwards with that organisation.

Don’t worry about sending as many emails as you need until you feel your questions have been answered. It is important that you feel confident in the organisation and their approach before you commit to volunteering in a foreign country with them.

Find out if the organization is committed to more general local causes alongside the specific volunteer projects.

For instance, are they offering any support to the local community around a project site by sponsoring local events or improving facilities for local kids for example?

The more heavily involved an organisation is involved in supporting and working alongside local people, the better, as it means you can be confident that the impact you are able to have will be maximised and supported by the work of the organisation you volunteer with.

Completing the application.

Once you have made a decision about which organization to volunteer with, you should now move on to filling out an application form and booking your place. This process is usually fairly straightforward and will involve providing personal information and answering a series of questions and paying a small amount as a deposit.

It is recommended you book well in advance to ensure you have plenty of time to make the necessary preparations for your trip.

The Best Organizations to Volunteer Overseas With?

Global Crossroad

With opportunities in around 20 countries over three continents Global Crossroad offer high quality volunteer overseas programs with fees roughly half the price of other volunteer organizations. They offer a great opportunity to join a project offering grassroot benefits to local communities, along with a safe, rewarding and meaningful culturally immersive experience for volunteers.

Chapter 3 Volunteering Overseas: Getting Ready

Once you have successfully applied to a volunteering overseas program, it is now time to start preparing for your adventure. There is a lot to consider at this stage and good planning now can prevent difficulties presenting themselves later.

Use this handy checklist to work through all your necessary preparation in good time:

Visa

It will be a necessary requirement for you to obtain a visa for the country you are planning to volunteer in. It is a good idea to sort your visa out well in advance to make sure you do not have any issues upon arrival in your destination country.

You can usually check the visa situation, including requirements for citizens of different nationalities and the fees charged, on the foreign embassy’s website. This process can often be done online and may take a number of weeks for the foreign embassy to process your application.

If you have any questions regarding your visa it is a good idea to speak to the organization you are volunteering with as they will have extensive experience in this area.

Passport

To legally enter another country, you are required to have a valid passport. Some countries also require you to have one or more blank pages available for visa stamps.

You will also often be required to show proof of onward travel such as a return air fare. It is worth checking all these requirements with either your volunteering overseas organization or the relevant foreign embassy.

Plane tickets

Usually, volunteers are expected to be responsible for the sourcing and purchasing of their own airfare to the destination country. The sooner you start looking for airfare deals, the better prices you will be able to find.

Here are a few tips on finding lower airfares:

• Book well in advance.
• Be flexible with your travel dates.
• Travel off-season if possible.
• Do plenty of online research using a variety of flight comparison websites.
• Book a return rather than a one way ticket as these are generally better value.

Vaccinations

When volunteering overseas in a foreign country, it is always a good idea to protect yourself as best as possible. You will need to research potential health risks thoroughly before departure to find out which diseases are prevalent in certain areas and the necessary vaccinations you will need.

Things like Hepatitis A and B as well as Typhoid are common vaccinations required for volunteering in many developing countries and you may also need to purchase anti-malarial pills if travelling to a risk area.

Speak to your volunteering organization before getting in touch with your local doctor to arrange the vaccinations.

Gifts for projects

It is always a nice gesture and sign of respect to come with gifts for the local community you will be based in for the duration of your volunteering overseas experience.

The gifts will be project dependent but presents for children are generally a fail-safe choice. These can include notepads, stationery, textbooks, picture books, balloons and other fun toys.

If staying with a host family, it can be a good idea to provide the adults of that family presents as well. These could include a specialty from your hometown or local area which comes with an interesting story you can share with them.

Relevant reading

When preparing for your trip, it can be a good idea to so some reading around the topic and on the communities you will be staying with.

Finding online blogs and books which focus specifically on your region are a good idea as are more general books and blogs covering volunteering abroad and associated issues. These can give you a great insight into the experiences of other volunteers in similar areas.

Raising funds

If you are struggling for funds to put towards your project or need to raise a certain amount for the volunteering project you will be working on, there is the option of doing a sponsored event such as a marathon or other sponsored activity.

Alternatively crowd funding is becoming increasingly popular with volunteers. Be careful though that you are raising funds for a charitable cause, i.e. the local project rather than just money to pay for your airfare.

Deciding what to pack

What you will need to pack depends on many factors such as local climate, season, altitudes at which you will be working and the local culture. It is usually best to pack light though buying any extras you need in the local community rather than taking more than you need and having to throw things away.

Here is an example packing list for a volunteer going to Tanzania:

• Culturally appropriate clothing.
• Mosquito net and repellent.
• Long sleeved clothing to protect you from insects in the evening.
• Sunscreen and hat.
• Lightweight and easily compressed clothes.
• Laundry soap and personal hygiene products such as shampoo.
• Books and a journal.
• Earplugs and eye mask if you are a light sleeper.
• A discreet bag or case to carry money and sensitive documents.

Further packing recommendations:

• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.
• Sandals.
• Backpack.
• 3 short-sleeved shirts.
• 2 long sleeved shirts.
• 2 pairs of pants (lightweight).
• 3 pairs of shorts and bathing suit.
• 2T-shirts.
• Hat or cap.
• SPF/sun protection.
• Towel and personal bath kit.
• Layer for warmth, evenings may be cool regardless of season.
• Lightweight jacket or rain jacket, depending on season.
• Camera.
• Chargers for any electrical devices.
• Bedding (if noted in placement document).
• Credit card and local currency.
• Day pack and waterproof sack or cover for your bag.
• Medications.

Chapter 4 Volunteering Overseas: Information to Have Before You Go

Once you are packed, know the agenda for your volunteering overseas program and have your tickets booked, it is time to make sure you have all the necessary information concerning your project. To get the best possible experience from your volunteer placement, being fully prepared with the right information before you go can be a big help.

Here are a few reminders:

Make sure you have adequate information on both your project and country you will be working in.

• Do you know the exact location of your project?
• Will connecting transport between the airport and project be necessary?
• What is the name of the project and who is your key contact on the ground?
• Make sure you have with you the relevant names and numbers of the people on the ground who you may need to get in touch with upon arriving at your destination country.

Try and get as much information as possible on your working day schedule; such as the hours you are expected to work, days off, extra tasks to complete at the end of each day etc.

If working in a school, you will want to know the teaching hours expected from you, the gender ratio in each class, total class size, who your supervisor will be and if there are any resources such as textbooks you are required to bring with you.

If working in a hospital for example, you will want to know which areas you will be specializing in and the tasks expected from you.

Daily logistics.

• How far will you be required to travel to and from your place of work?
• Is this transport provided by the organization or will you have to arrange it yourself?
• Also make sure you have the relevant contacts from your place of accommodation if it is separate from your place of work.

Learn as much as possible about your host family. If staying with a host family, they will be of key importance in your time spent volunteering overseas. They will act as your first point of contact in the community and building a strong relationship with them is beneficial for all involved.

• Try and learn their names in advance, what they do for a living, and how they are connected to the project.
• It can also be useful to find out household information in advance as well. For example, things like access to hot water, whether there are laundry facilities and when the family has their meals.
• Try and learn about their traditions and culture so you can impress them upon arrival with your knowledge. This is a way of showing your respect to the host family.
• Having a few phrases ready in the local language will also never go amiss.

Get connected with the in-country-support staff. These are important connections for you to have and will provide a lifeline for you in your adventure while volunteering overseas.

• They will be your key contact for helping you resolve any problems or issues that may arise.
• Get their personal information; including phone numbers, and try to stay in touch at least once a week.

Remember, these are developing countries you will be volunteering in, so it is important to adjust your expectations in advance. You will be faced with very different environments to those which you are used to and may encounter things which trouble you; including extreme poverty, healthcare problems and communities in the grip of crises over issues such as housing.

Carrying out a thorough research before departure can help you, but it is likely you will still experience some cultural shock upon arrival. Don’t worry though, this is normal.

Chapter 5 Volunteer Overseas: Arriving and the Start of Your Adventure

Arriving at your destination country can be an overwhelming experience. You will be confronted with a whole new array of people, colors, sounds and smells. Beautiful landscapes and local hospitality will leave you excited and full of energy. Try and pace yourself. Take things step by step and remember: integration and acclimatization into a new culture will take some time.

Making the Most Out Of Your Volunteering Overseas Experience

The way in which you approach your volunteering overseas placement will determine how much you take away from it.

Below are a few ideas to help you make the most out of your time volunteering overseas:

Show support and passion for your project. You’ve spent a lot of time researching and planning this trip, so once you have arrived at your project, it is important you continue to show passion and a keen interest in the work at hand. Turning up to work with a smile and positive attitude is really important and says a lot to those you are working with.

Embrace the culture. Do your best to learn some key phrases from the local language as this shows you are willing to make an effort and don’t expect everyone to adjust to you. Remember, you are the foreigner in this situation! Try and show willing in eating the same food as the locals as well as getting involved as fully as possible in any cultural events and community activities. Basically, the important thing here is just to immerse yourself and have fun.

Explore the country. You will have time off from your project, so you will have the opportunity to explore the local area and really get a sense of the country you are living in. Look into hiring a moped to see the local sights or get involved in some trekking. These are both great ways to get a flavor of an area. Or why not go for a look around the local market and visit some local historical sights? (Here again, we see how research can give you valuable information about an area you might not have otherwise known).

Stay positive and appreciate the experience. There will undoubtedly be challenging times in which you feel low or miss home. Try and remember on these occasions how much you wanted to be where you are now and the amount of work that has gone into making it happen. Remember that the feeling of being low will pass. Get some rest and begin a new day positively.

Don’t expect the luxury of a 5 star hotel. Remember that you will have to make adjustments to your expectations and people may not live in the same manner on your volunteering project as they do at home. Try and embrace this alternative way of living without complaining; see it as a challenge rather than a burden. It will definitely make you appreciate what you may have taken for granted in the past.

Embrace your Host Family. They will be your family for the duration of your stay and should be treated as such. They are not only there to provide you with food, accommodation and a support network, but also to share and learn from you. It is a two way exchange. Spend time getting to know them and, as much as you can about their country, lifestyle and language.

Observe. This is a really important part of integrating into a new community and culture. Spending time watching and listening is a great way to learn and it will teach you a lot about local cultural and social norms which you too will be expected to follow. Take the time to explore the safe areas of the village, town or city you’re based in and get to know the residents by speaking with as many as you can.

If you encounter any problems, remember to notify your country coordinator. Don’t be embarrassed to raise something with them. Remember, they are there to help and will not judge you for asking a question, however silly you think it might sound.

Safety While Volunteering Overseas

Although you can generally expect to find friendliness and hospitality from those you meet while volunteering overseas, it is important you also bear safety in mind as every society experiences some level of criminal activity.

The most likely crimes you will encounter in a developing country are petty theft and robbery. These arise as tourists are obviously, in relative terms, much wealthier than many locals. So it may be that a very small minority would look to gain monetarily from you if the opportunity to do so presents itself. Before departing for your volunteer project, look into the potential threats which may exist and the ways in which you can minimize these risks.

Here are some pointers:

• Check your country’s embassy advice page for foreign visitors and tourists for details; they often display the most up to date information.
• Ensure you have a travel insurance policy which covers all eventualities. You can generally find pretty reasonable policies which cover all the common things such as baggage loss etc.
• Do not carry your original passport or lots of cash on your person. Instead, ensure they are locked away somewhere safe.
• Obtain contact details for emergency services which you have access to at all times.
• Register your information with your local embassy and ensure friends and family know where you are and when you are expected back should any issues arise.
• Don’t take unnecessarily expensive goods with you on your volunteering overseas projects and, at the very least, try not to flash high value items around.
• Always be aware of your surroundings and try to avoid poorly lit areas of town at night.
• Be extra vigilant when using ATMs and dealing with large amounts of cash.
• Try to avoid standing around looking at maps and guidebooks for long periods of time in unknown parts of town as this flags you up as someone unsure of their environment.
• Respect the local culture and dress accordingly to avoid unwanted attention.
• Always carry wallets, bum bags etc. at the front of your body so you can see them.
• Don’t leave possessions unattended in public places.

A summary of Do’s and Don’ts

Do:

• Embrace and show respect for the local cultures.
• Try as many traditional cuisines and dishes as possible.
• Maintain a friendly and open attitude.
• Throw yourself in to activities and events to the greatest extent possible.
• Take advantage of opportunities to practice your language skills.
• Explore the natural surroundings.
• Take part in the religious and cultural life of your community.
• Be respectful and polite to those you encounter.
• Carry tissues around with you in case of emergencies.
• Carry out as much research as possible prior to departure.

Don’t:

• Expect all the same amenities and luxuries that you would find in your home.
• Bring unwanted attention to yourself, either through the way you dress in public or flash around high value items.
• Be culturally insensitive to the community you find yourself in.
• Use unregistered taxis.
• Think all food and drinks are safe to consume (if possible always drink bottled water over local tap water).
• Miss opportunities to get involved with the local community.
• Allow arguments to escalate into physical violence at any point.

Chapter 6 Volunteering Overseas: Completing Your Project and Returning Home

Your volunteering overseas placement will be an experience that stays with you for the rest of your life and will hopefully also be the beginning of many new lifelong friendships as well. Remember to take lots of photos of the places you visit and of your host family so you can show family and friends when you get home. It is also a great way to keep your wonderful memories fresh.

Upon your return, it can be really rewarding to share your experiences and written and photographic records taken whilst on placement with the volunteer organization which made it all possible. They can then incorporate your accounts and experiences into testimonials to help future volunteers get the necessary information.

It is also a great idea to stay in touch with new friends; both those from the local community and fellow volunteers you were working alongside. You never know; you might find yourself volunteering together again at some point in the future!

The Most Frequently Asked Volunteering Questions:

Will there be support from anyone in the host country?

Yes, in most instances in-country support is available, but it’s always a good idea to check with your organization in advance of departure to obtain relevant contact details from them.

How many volunteers will there be on the project with me?

This varies between organizations and is dependent on the time of year and the specific projects. Some may require only a couple of volunteers at any given time, whilst others in peak season may accept many more.

How will I travel from the airport to my host family?

Generally, the organization you volunteered with will organize a collection for you at the airport. Again though, this is worth double checking with your organization in advance.

If I volunteer with a friend, will we be placed in the same project and housed together?

This is a fairly common request and most organizations will be happy to arrange for you and your friend to be placed on the same project (space dependent obviously). It is however not a guaranteed that you will be placed with the same host family, as often individual families only look to accommodate single volunteers.

Are meals provided?

Most volunteer program fees include accommodation and 2-3 meals a day for the volunteer. However, some may only provide breakfast and dinner so it is worth checking this in advance.

I am a vegetarian, will this be a problem?

Your host family in the country will want to look after volunteers as best they can and will generally try to accommodate volunteer dietary requirements; however, it is best to notify your organization and host family in advance so they can prepare accordingly.

Will my host family speak English?

Most host families will speak some English; however, this varies case by case and you cannot assume they will. Remember, you are visiting their country and living with them, so it is the perfect opportunity for you to learn or practice their language too.

Can I travel on my days off?

Generally, this is fine; however, it is highly recommend that you notify the team and any supervisors in advance so people know where you have gone.

Do I have to bring my own bedding and mosquito nets?

If you are placed with a host family, then bedding will be provided for you. But if you are in a malarial area, it is advisable you bring your own mosquito nets just in case.

What if I don’t speak the language?

If you don’t speak the local language, then you should still be able to get by. Knowing a few words and phrases will be a big help to you though, so it is well worth putting in the effort to secure some basic knowledge of the local language.

Can I speak with a previous volunteer from my chosen project?

Check your organizations website, or call them to see if they offer any networking opportunities where you are able to talk with previous volunteers. If you are unable to make contact with previous volunteers, then use online testimonials as a guide.

What kind of food will I eat while I'm there?

The cuisine you encounter whilst volunteering will be completely dependent on the region you are based in and local traditions. You can therefore get a better idea of what you will be eating by speaking to your organization.

How many hours per day will I be volunteering?

Again this is totally dependent on the project you are based on and organization you volunteer with. Daily schedules vary, but normal daily hours can be anywhere from 4-6 hours per day. Some placements may require specific shift patterns; e.g. one early weekend start. This can be established with your volunteering overseas organization prior to departure.

How much money do I need to bring?

This depends on what you plan to do during your volunteering abroad experience. When accommodation and meals are provided, you only need cash to cover any transportation costs to your project and personal expenses such as souvenir shopping, snacks and essential toiletries. On the other hand, if you plan to travel around the country after your project ends, go sightseeing in your free time, eat out, socialise and take part in adventure activities, then factor this into your pre-trip budgeting.

This free e-book has been written to help volunteers and act as useful resource for those considering voluntary work overseas. It is not intended to act as a definitive or authoritative guide, but rather a general reference point. We cannot guarantee the validity of all information included, as specific changes in the field or individual situations will not be recorded here. We will not be liable for any damages that might result if you use this book without verifying it.