Volunteer Abroad for Free! Some people will refuse to even consider paying for a chance to volunteer, while others might be more flexible about the idea. Whichever camp you belong to, the hard fact is that you simply cannot volunteer for free.
If anyone offers you such a chance, avoid them as they most likely represent an exploitative side of the international volunteering industry that damages communities it’s meant to help. No, you cannot volunteer abroad without showing your bank card or physical money, which makes perfect sense.
Firstly, you’ll have to pay for your flight to the location and back – flying, just like anything else, is not getting cheaper these days. If you are devoted to sustainable travel, you’ll probably want to pay a bit extra for those organizations that are devoted to environmental protection. Furthermore, visa processing also costs money – sometimes more, sometimes less, but even so.
More importantly, the organization you apply through has limited funds to support a project. If those funds go into giving volunteers hotel rooms, three meals a day, and extra pocket money, the community they’re meant to be helping is left without the very funds intended for them. Which defeats the purpose of the program.
You can volunteer abroad at reduced costs if you’re financially sufficient and can take care of your money – reckless spenders, time to learn! There are scholarships you can apply for, or you can start a fundraiser to help you out. Ultimately, you can work for a while and save up cash for your volunteering opportunity – there’s hardly a better way to spend money anyway. Don’t let the costs deter you from doing a good deed!
Gap Year – Volunteering Abroad Without Constraints
Volunteering in one’s gap year is quite popular – it allows for greater flexibility, more time to really get into a project, and a higher impact on one’s engagement. If you’ve recently finished your studies but are not ready to jump into the world of work, think about taking a gap year to do some good. However, please do not make it about “finding yourself” – you need proper, sustained motivation to volunteer abroad.
The great news is that Go Volunteer Africa has excellent offers for gap year volunteers. These programs are more flexible, and you can tailor them to your own needs. On the beneficial side, volunteering abroad during your gap year will open up amazing job prospects across multiple territories – you never know who you might meet and where they may take you. You’ll discover what you’re capable of, test your limits, and positively impact the world.
Applying to Volunteer Abroad – Tips for Students
Some practical information at the end of this lengthy treatise. Once you find a suitable program, you must apply directly. Depending on the organization and the program, you’ll get to pick the dates, or you may receive a predetermined time when the program is taking place.
While the application process is relatively simple, quite often, you’ll be asked to explain your motivation to volunteer. You don’t have to make this as formal and uptight as a job motivation letter, but you should still keep a firm structure. If you need to, introduce yourself in a sentence or two and get straight to the point of why you’re applying.
The language. Most volunteer abroad programs are fairly English-friendly, but you may need to brush up on your other language skills. Be acquainted with the local medical system. It’s true that dramatic things rarely happen, but you should be equipped to deal with them. You should also be insured for the trip!
Pack light. Just thinking about dragging a massive suitcase gives me headaches – be practical about it. And most definitely wear comfortable shoes! Bring enough money – just in case.
Read your volunteer guide thoroughly. Everything you need to know will be there – not just about the program but also about the local culture and dynamics.
With that said, you should also be cautious about not being ripped off by those preying on foreigners. Also, have your medical supplies and come with an open mind and high spirits. After all, volunteering abroad is indeed an experience of a lifetime!
HOW TO APPLY
To start the process fill Volunteer application form and submit it for consideration and book your placement. For more information on how to get enrolled for the volunteering experience of a lifetime contact us. Or Give us a call | WhatsApp | Telegram | Viber | Imo at +254-796-786292 to talk to a Program Specialist.
