Are you one of those who seek to travel the world while helping others? For many, it is a way of life. Some pay to be part of the so-called volunteer tourism while others get to travel for free by simply agreeing to do volunteer work under specific organizations.
Why Volunteer?
Being human and therefore being a part of a global society, each person is enjoined to do his or her part to help others. It used to be that a person must be identified with a specific cause to be included in overseas voluntary work. Today, one only needs to have the willingness and the time to be part of volunteer efforts that will benefit those who need it.
All across the globe, there are many relevant causes that will require volunteers. Caring for the environment, rebuilding communities ravaged by war and natural calamities such as the recent Typhoon Haiyan that severely affected the Philippines, and medical missions to help in alleviating pain and healing sickness, are just some of the more prioritized volunteer projects. One volunteers to fulfill one aspect of humanity which is the satisfaction of having relevancy in this world.
Volunteer and Travel
For those who are into both travel and volunteerism, volunteer travel is the way to go. The prevailing objective is the desire to do good and traveling makes it possible to bring such desire to other places where it is most needed. It is able to satisfy both interests in a single effort.
In the thick of volunteer travel activities are recognized international organizations which ensure that working systems are in place. These systems are very important so that the intended help is maximized. While most organizations require that volunteers pay fees or give donation, there are those who provide travel opportunities for free or at very minimal costs to volunteers.
Free Travel for Volunteers
There are many opportunities for volunteers to avail of free travel. Organizations like Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms, Turtle Teams, Conservation Volunteers, Sudan Volunteer Program, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Trip Leader for HF Holidays, Help Exchange, Peace Corps, United Nations Volunteers, and Kibbutz Volunteer, among many others, open such opportunities. These organizations are of varying natures and each volunteer can choose the cause closest to his or heart.
For avid travelers, being able to help along the way makes it more relevant. The chance to help those who are in need is a privilege that not every person will have in his or her life time. Being able to travel for free is simply a bonus.