The ins and outs of volunteering holidays
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But there are a number of operators out there who aren’t as ethical as they seem. So how do you make sure your “voluntourism” holiday doesn’t do more harm than good?
Kristy Moore, Adventure Connector of Hand Up Australia, shares her top tips:
Choose an ethical program
Volunteering in developing countries is an opportunity for you to build a legacy. One of your first questions when looking into volunteering holidays should be: “Are the needs of the community the top priority?”
Ask the host organisation to provide details of how they work with the community. Are local communities open to hosting international volunteers? Are local community leaders involved? Are locals employed? Could you be taking paid work from a local? Will your contribution help to build skills, assets or knowledge for locals?
Programs that are working towards improving communities for the long term are the most beneficial, for example, building assets such as schools and health care centres, and empowering parents with knowledge and the ability to earn a sustainable income. When this is done in partnership with communities, your contributions as an international volunteer will continue benefiting those communities long after you return home.
What support is there?
Just because you want to make a difference for others doesn’t mean you should lose sight of your own needs. Find out what safety measures operators have in place for your personal health and safety. Do they provide secure accommodation? Is there access to quality medical care and thorough risk management precautions?
An experienced and ethical volunteer travel provider will offer support before, during and after a trip. You should be briefed on what to expect before departure (including what the visa and vaccination requirements are), supported during your trip and kept informed of the community’s progress long after you return home.
What do you want to achieve?
Whether you’re looking for something to help the transition into retirement or just an adventure, do you want to put your existing skills to use, or do you want to do something new?
And don’t forget the practicalities – give some serious thought to how much time you can spare, where you want to go, whether you want to travel before or after your volunteer program and whether you want to fly solo or go with friends or family. Also ask what’s included in the trip fee and whether there are any out-of-pocket expenses or additional fundraising expectations, and if there is an age restriction.
Get informed
Speak to host operators and research the countries you’re interested in visiting. Keep asking questions until you have peace of mind that you’ll be participating in something that’s positive and lasting, and that you’ll be safe and supported on your journey.
For more information on Hand Up Australia’s volunteer trips for families, couples and solo travellers, contact www.HandUpAustralia.com/trip.
Pic credit: Hand Up Australia