It seems that there are more and more people nowadays who seem to feel the need to seek out opportunities for travel abroad volunteer work. Such an adventure means that they will have quite a change in their lifestyle and will need to get used to new people, surroundings, customs and probably languages as well. Leaving a job or putting schooling on hold, as well as leaving behind beloved friends and family members, is all part of the deal when people have the courage to travel the path less taken.
Even with all of these major considerations and changes, venturing out on a volunteer work project abroad will more than likely turn out to be the experience of a lifetime for those who put their heart into their charity volunteer work overseas. Charity work abroad gives people unique opportunities to live and work in another land and experience the people and the culture, not as a tourist but on the same level that the local citizens live their daily lives. This in and of itself provides those who undertake overseas volunteer work with a unique perspective on the world and other countries that will be with them throughout their lives.
In addition to the experiences and perspectives that will endure in their memories, a person who embarks on travel abroad volunteer work will also expand their horizons by learning new languages, making new friends, and feeling like they have a second home in another part of the world. With all of this in mind, it is no wonder why international volunteer work is becoming a more popular pursuit for those who have the ability to get involved.
Choosing to participate in a volunteer work program abroad is a wonderful idea for a number of very positive reasons. On a more self-centered note, anyone who gives up their time and energy to offer their services and expertise to a voluntary charity organization will have a wonderful entry to include in their resume. At the same time, most administrators of charity work overseas programs are more than happy to write you a glowing letter of recommendation as a token of thanks for the services you rendered.
For those who are planning to go on to graduate school of some type after their overseas volunteer work, it can be noted that volunteer work is something that is well respected in school admissions offices. This one factor alone can be something on which your whole future hinges in the most positive of ways. There are many people who have returned from a break from schooling or a sabbatical from work where they took advantage of a volunteer work opportunity to find that their school or job prospects had improved greatly because of their desire to use their time serving other people.
There is really no lack of choices when it comes to travel abroad volunteer work opportunities in this day and age. No matter what your particular interests are or what type of charitable efforts you are most inclined to support, you will no doubt find options that will feel right for you. While rendering service of any type to any kind of voluntary charity organization is satisfying, working with a program that you have a special connection with will be even more gratifying.
Article by Mike Selvon.
Jackie - 12 years ago
The article seems to have a focus on volunteering as being a worthwhile thing to consider as a way of enhancing ones career path. As this is a site for the 50 plus people, and many of us are retired, where can I find out about volunteering overseas for older retired people – I may be retired – well almost, but I am definitely not tired!