Master of Something Yet posted an interesting piece about the value of volunteering while travelling in other cultures.
Voluntourism – Helpful Aid Or Just A Warm Fuzzie?.
I’ve written here about some of my volunteer trips; based on my experiences I agree with this blogger’s observations. Some of the groups I worked with met these criteria better than others; those are the ones I worked with a second time.
I encourage you to volunteer, either abroad or in your community.
volunteers helping locals to build a medical clinic
a community well built and donated by a relief agency and donated
Interested in voluntourism? Here’s what to look for
(summary of points in the article)
◊ Is the company offering the project a reputable, well-established company?
◊ Has the project been established in consultation with the local community?
◊ Is the project of lasting benefit?
◊ Is the project sustainable?
◊ Does the project employ local people?
◊ Where is your money going?
If the opportunity doesn’t measure up, look for something else. There are plenty out there that need your help.
A local nurse assisted me with a patient encounter in Thailand
