Volunteering abroad can be a life-changing experience. It puts you right at the heart of local communities, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in their culture while giving back in a meaningful way. For those of you considering traveling to volunteer abroad or those of you who have never considered it until now, here is a list of five reasons to volunteer abroad that might make you want to take that final step.
1. Use your skills to make a difference
Passing on a valuable skill is a rewarding way to give back. Whether that’s teaching a subject at a school, creating something that the local community can benefit from, or offering your time to help those around you. That feeling you get after helping others and seeing the unbridled joy on their faces is absolutely indescribable.
2. Do Something out of the Norm
Shake up your summer by going abroad to volunteer. Not only will you gain new experiences and learn new things, but it will also make you appreciate home so much more when you return. There are also so many options when it comes to volunteering. You could go and work on marine conservation to save the turtles or teach basketball to young kids in Africa. Do something different, and fill your life with exciting adventures!
3. Help give back to a Community.
A big part of volunteering abroad is getting involved with the people you are there to help. Over the time of your volunteer services, you’ll slowly become part of the community you’re helping. Your work can help make a difference in a community, for example, helping to build a school or play area for the local children
4. Widen your worldview
It’s very easy to get lost in the town or city you live in and forget that the world is a big place with many different people and atmospheres you can learn to love. Going abroad to help others can help you see the world in a way you might not have otherwise. Try new things, eat different foods, or learn a new skill! Volunteers often report returning home with not only a new lease on life, but a new understanding and appreciation for their own.
5. Make Meaningful Connections
Volunteering lets you meet people from all walks of life. It gives you the chance to form relationships that can have a lasting impact on your life. Whether your initial goal is to make the world a better place or learn new skills, you’ll never forget the people you bonded with while abroad. The memories you’ll make will stay with you long after you’ve gotten home. You could meet your new best friend, future business partner or have a conversation that sparks a change in your life.
The benefits of volunteer work are long-term and rewarding. You get to learn professional and personal skills and explore a different country and parts of yourself. One of the best things you can do to grow is to put yourself in new situations and experience new things.
