Features: Volunteering abroad

Satisfy your altruistic side and boost your employability by lending a hand in far-foreign lands

After years of studying for academic qualifications, students and graduates often feel like they’re ready to do something new once they've downed their pens.

For some this means jetting off on holiday to relax and recuperate. For others it means throwing themselves into the world of work.

However, a vast number of people have found that they are able to do both - by volunteering abroad.

Erin Sparks at PoD Volunteer says, 'Volunteering abroad offers a fantastic experience which can boost your CV, increase your independence and improve your cultural awareness and understanding. There are also the overwhelming benefits to the local communities and projects that volunteers join.'

Why volunteer overseas?

 

The chance to make a difference where it is needed most is one of the most appealing aspects of a taking part in a programme of this kind.

You might get to teach in an understaffed school and help youngsters reach their potential, provide childcare in impoverished communities, or build facilities and accommodation for local people.

You can also visit parts of the world that you may otherwise never get to see. When you're not working, you can soak up the sun (depending on your destination), meet new people and see the sights.

But this is not like any regular holiday.

Erin adds, 'Volunteering allows you to experience complete cultural immersion not encountered on holidays.

'You become a part of the community and gain a greater understanding of the country and the difficulties that locals face by travelling off the well-worn tourist trail.'

Employability skills

In addition, you can pick up or improve a number of life skills that could benefit your career. Examples include:

• communication;
• problem solving;
• leadership;
• language skills;
• adaptability;
• teamwork;
• decision making.

Mindy Gofton, head of search at online marketing firm I-COM, explains how employers may view applicants who have been on an adventure of this kind.

'Volunteering rather than just doing the usual gap year travelling shows a lot more maturity and substance - that the candidate really wanted to get something out of their travels beyond a long holiday, and it's nice to see applicants with a sense of social responsibility.

'It says to us that volunteers think about things beyond their own ambition - meaning they are more likely to want to deliver for clients.

'Volunteer projects also bring a range of experience that helps understand the world outside - something really important for young applicants when they're trying to adjust to business and new concepts.'

The most common way of arranging an expedition is directly through a third-party organisation or charity.

 

Volunteering opportunities

Your chosen provider will typically sort out your accommodation, food, airport transfers and itinerary, in addition to supplying a contact who will provide support as and when you need it.

In most cases you'll also receive training, as well as orientation on arrival.

You are normally responsible for arranging your own visas and travel insurance.

Just some providers of volunteering schemes include:

• Big Beyond;
• CAPS;
• Kaya Responsible Travel;
• Lattitude Global Volunteering;
• PoD Volunteer;
• Projects Abroad;
• Raleigh International;
• SL Volunteers;
• Smaller Earth;
• TEFL Heaven;
• Travellers Worldwide.

There are a range of opportunities available in different countries across the world, and can usually be divided into the following categories:

• teaching
• wildlife/conservation
• community/childcare
• construction
• medical
• sports

The cost of your trip will vary depending on your destination and length of your stay.

However, prices usually range from £800-£1,000 for a couple of weeks, £1,500-£3,000 for five to 12 weeks and considerably more for trips lasting longer than a month.

 

Advice for volunteers

Deciding to embark on this kind of adventure is a big commitment and can be a scary prospect.

But Erin has some advice for those considering jetting off to make a difference.

She suggests looking for a long-term, sustainable project with a clear purpose and a genuine two-way benefit between the project and volunteer.

In addition, make sure the project is well supported, has been visited and vetted by the organisation and that you know where your money is going.

She adds, 'Plan ahead to get the best deals on flights. Check your visa requirements and that you've had all the necessary immunisations to travel to your chosen destination.

'Make sure it's the right choice of country and project for you and most important enjoy your time there and make the most of every travel opportunity.'