Ever get the feeling that you have a higher calling? You know... That you have a special purpose on this earth? You're not interested in the corporate world, SUV's or IPO's. In fact, if you had the chance, you would surely save the world... Well maybe not the world, but some small part of it. Volunteering abroad is one way to make a difference. Volunteering abroad is not for everyone, so before you sign up for the Peace Corps or another similar program there are a few things you should consider. Often it helps to check out information from a group like IVPA which provides many different resources about volunteering abroad.

Career Development

In some cases you may find a volunteer gig in your field of study. A marine biology student could monitor turtles in Costa Rica, an engineering student may build houses in Israel, and an Archeology major may dig in Morocco. A volunteer position may give you the hands-on experience you won't get stuffing envelopes for an internship.

Cultural Immersion

Many travelers know where they want to go, but don't know what to do once they get there. Volunteering abroad gives your travels a purpose and an itinerary.

Affordable Travel

There are few travel experiences that are cheaper then volunteering abroad. Most Volunteer placement organizations charge a fee. The fee will typically cover room/board, orientation, and the program itself. Many volunteers cover their expenses by letter writing campaigns to family and friends, contributions from churches or student organizations and other donation driven efforts. Fundraising is a simple way to pay for a volunteer excursion abroad. By writing to family members, friends, and possibly teachers about your opportunity abroad, you may be surprised by the giving from these individuals to make the volunteer opportunity happen. Certainly one of the best sources for small scholarships or donations are local community groups tied to the region you are going to. If you are going to work in Guatemala, for example, contact either a local or national Guatemalan community organization and see how they may be able to help you. Maybe you can perform a slide show for them upon return, or speak at a function they sponsor, and they may have funds to help you help their homeland community. Many organizations will provide you with sample fundraising letters from past volunteers. Recent Building Hope volunteers held a volleyball tournament to raise cash. Volunteers have also biked across their state or cleaned up their neighborhood to raise funds. And visiting your church or local organizations with ties to your destination is also typically a good source of financing. Students have asked me, "Why do I have to pay to go work overseas?" Unless you are a doctor or engineer or you are planning to spend a year or two volunteering there is probably a fee to be paid. Perhaps you are going to build a school in the Philippines, the volunteer organization has to pay for building supplies, arrange the logistics of the program, provide homestays in the local village, create brochures and market their program. If the only objective was to build the school they would be better served hiring local craftsmen at a low cost and complete the project in a short time. The goal of the organization is more likely centered around providing a cultural experience for you and for the local volunteers and letting you see life in the Philippine village.