So, you have decided to go volunteering abroad?

Good on you. From a personal achievement perspective, nothing will give you more satisfaction than helping those in need by volunteering abroad. It’s a highly challenging and rewarding experience, especially when you return home and recount your voluntary work to your family and friends with self-pride.

However, voluntary work abroad in an unfamiliar country is challenging. In many instances, you are out of your comfort zone, away from your favourite gimmicks at home, the comfort of your bed, and your favourite meal at dinner time. These are all little things, but they all add up over time. Therefore, let’s run through a list of what to expect when volunteering abroad.

 

 

What to Expect During the Challenges of Volunteering Abroad

Volunteering abroad is a rewarding experience that can enrich your life in many ways. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Knowing what to expect during your time abroad is essential to prepare yourself for the journey. You’ll encounter cultural differences, language barriers, and unfamiliar customs that can be overwhelming.

You may also face unexpected situations that require quick thinking and adaptability. Nonetheless, with patience, an open mind, and a willingness to learn, you can overcome these obstacles and have a genuinely life-changing experience while making a positive impact.

 

You won’t change the world, so don’t expect to

It’s essential to remember that when you embark on a volunteering assignment, you’re not a superhero but rather a volunteer. Therefore, it’s crucial to recognize that you won’t be able to single-handedly change the world or the community you are involved in. However, volunteering can still have a significant positive impact.

Volunteering is meant to be a positive experience, so it’s essential to approach it with a relaxed and flexible mindset. It would be best if you were prepared to go with the flow and adapt to unexpected situations that may arise. This way, you can maximise your time volunteering and gain valuable personal insights and experiences.

It’s important to note that volunteering is not just about the impact you make on others but also the impact it has on you. By volunteering, you can learn new skills, develop your character, and gain a broader perspective on life. Additionally, volunteering can be an opportunity to form new relationships and build a sense of community.

Therefore, when you embark on a volunteering assignment, remember that while you may not change the world or the community you are involved in, you can still make a meaningful impact. By being flexible, putting forth your best effort, and keeping an open mind, you can have a positive and rewarding volunteering experience.

 

 

Volunteering Abroad is not cheap.

Volunteering abroad is a great way to impact the world positively. However, it’s essential to understand that volunteering abroad comes at a significant cost. While it may seem like a selfless act, it’s necessary to be aware that nothing is free, and that includes giving up your time and money to do a good deed.

Different organizations that offer volunteering programs abroad have varying fees. It’s crucial to thoroughly research the costs and the organization to ensure that you’re investing your time and money in a worthy cause. Based on my personal experience, I highly recommend International Volunteers Headquarters for a worthwhile volunteering experience abroad.

While fees may vary, most organizations provide accommodation, food, and a few-day tour that allows you to learn about the country’s culture and magnificent attractions. These experiences are designed to enhance your volunteering experience and will enable you to explore the country you’re in.

It’s important to note that in addition to the regular fees, most organizations will require you to purchase your airfares, visas, and travel insurance. Considering these additional costs when planning your volunteering trip abroad is crucial.

Volunteering abroad is a rewarding experience, allowing you to positively impact the world. However, it’s essential to be adequately prepared and aware of the costs involved before signing up for a program. You can have a fulfilling and life-changing volunteering experience abroad with proper research and planning.

 

 

Get ready for a Volunteering Abroad challenge.

Volunteer trips can be an enriching experience, but they are often challenging as well. It’s essential to be prepared for the obstacles you may face so you can make the most of your trip and truly make a difference.

Depending on the nature of your volunteer work, you will encounter various challenges daily. For example, if you teach a class, you may need to keep the kids motivated and engaged, even when they feel tired or distracted. This can be incredibly challenging if you are working with children who come from complex backgrounds or who have experienced trauma.

If you are involved in construction work, you may need to work in hot, humid conditions, which can be physically demanding and exhausting. You may also encounter unexpected obstacles, such as complex materials or delays.

No matter what challenges you face, it’s essential to stay calm and think through any problems. Remember that you are part of a team and can rely on fellow volunteers for support and guidance. With a positive attitude and a willingness to work hard, you can overcome any obstacle and make a real difference in the lives of others.

 

 

You can’t choose your roommates.

When you decide to volunteer abroad, one of the uncertainties you may have is who else will be joining you on your volunteering journey. While it’s possible to choose to volunteer with your loved ones, you can never predict who else will be participating in the same program as you until you arrive at your destination. It’s essential to keep an open mind and be prepared to interact with people from different walks of life, ages, and nationalities.

You’ll be introduced to the other volunteers working alongside you when you arrive at your destination. You may work with people of different age groups, from college students to retirees. In addition to age diversity, you’ll also encounter people from different cultures and countries.

Being prepared for the various personalities you’ll encounter during your volunteering experience is essential. While you may not get along with everyone, it’s important to remember that everyone has a common goal of making a difference and helping others. You’ll learn much about yourself and others by stepping out of your comfort zone and interacting with people from different backgrounds.

For example, during a volunteering trip to Laos, I was surprised to find that I was the oldest volunteer by ten years, despite not considering myself old. However, I had a great time working with young university students who were passionate about the cause, and we all worked together towards our common goal.

 

 

Be prepared to Live in third-world conditions.

While it might be an overstatement to suggest that the conditions you will be living in are comparable to those of a third-world country, it will still be a far cry from the luxuries you are accustomed to in modern Western civilization.

You will be staying in dorm-style accommodations that might not have air conditioning, which could make the nights a bit uncomfortable. The meals provided will be primary and repetitive, so you may miss the variety of food you are used to. Additionally, you won’t have access to modern amenities such as television, WIFI, and other things we take for granted.

It’s understandable that living without these things could be frustrating at times, but remember that it is only for a short period. When you feel like you’re missing out, remember that the locals live this way all the time, and try to appreciate the simplicity of life without these distractions.

 

 

Expect the Unexpected during volunteer vacations.

When volunteering, remembering the phrase “expect the unexpected ” is essential. ” This is true for volunteer work and any aspect of life. Volunteering abroad can be unpredictable, especially in unfamiliar environments with different cultures. It’s crucial to remain flexible and adaptable to the challenges that may arise.

It’s important not to let minor issues disrupt your experience, as these issues are usually insignificant in the grand scheme. These minor issues can be easily overcome. By keeping an open mind and a positive attitude, you can maximize your volunteer work experience, no matter where you are.

 

 

Cherish those little rewards of Volunteering Abroad.

Volunteering abroad can be a life-changing experience. It can involve various tasks, from teaching a child a difficult English word to helping construct a building under challenging conditions. In these moments, it’s important to remember to celebrate the small victories. For instance, when you see a child’s face light up with excitement after they’ve mastered a challenging word or when a classroom of children sings a nursery rhyme together in unison.

While volunteering abroad can be rewarding, it’s important to remember that it’s not easy. It involves a significant investment of time, money, and energy. You may experience homesickness or culture shock, and you may find yourself adapting to new customs and ways of life.

Despite the challenges, it’s important to remember that you are volunteering for a noble cause. By participating in international volunteer programs, you are positively impacting the world. You’re doing your part to make the world a better place, and that’s something to be proud of.

So, embrace the challenges ahead and take a moment at the end of each day to reflect on the good you have done. Whether teaching children, helping build homes, or providing medical care to those in need, your work makes a difference- and that’s something worth celebrating.