Best Advice When Wanting To Volunteer In Developing Countries

By Joseph Reed


When you have a compassionate heart and you want to help less fortunate people, then doing some volunteer work might just be right up your alley. Bear in mind though that this is not an easy task because there will be several challenges you may encounter along the way. Should you feel that you have the strength and conviction to proceed, then read the details below for more information.

You should learn to adapt and train yourself to tolerate discomfort because you will likely be placed in really tough environments. Being a volunteer in developing countries means that you have to do away with the luxurious amenities and adapt to a more rustic setting. Your mind and body must be suitably prepared to deal with such uncomfortable situations.

Your placement is determined by the administrators over at the volunteering program, so when you receive the information, your next order of business is to study all there is to know about your destination. From the language and customs to their climate and geography, you should be busy absorbing all the info you need. This will definitely serve you well during your time spent abroad.

Do not treat this as a relaxing vacation so that means packing light and carrying only the most basic essentials. Whenever possible, anything you need to bring should fit in one large and heavy duty backpack so you can travel around with ease. If you need any additional supplies, you can always buy them when you arrive at your assigned destination.

Prior to your departure, get yourself tested for any diseases and make sure you get all the necessary vaccinations and medical shots which will boost your immunity against any foreign illnesses. This is a mandatory requirement that all volunteers have to comply before leaving. You certainly do not want to fall sick in a country with limited access to advanced medical facilities.

In relation to the previous point, it is essential to learn some basic medical procedures which you can do by yourself in case of emergencies. You just never know when disasters might strike while being on the job, so you need to be fully prepared for such contingencies. Study up on the basics of first aid, as well as other life saving techniques like CPR or the Heimlich maneuver.

Foreigners happen to be pegged as easy targets for con artists and other unsavory criminals, so it never hurts to be cautious at all times. But on the flipside of things, not all locals are hostile to foreign visitors, especially if they know you are there for volunteer work. Maintain an attitude of genuine positivity and friendliness whenever you engage with the local population.

Lastly, never make the mistake of not having emergency funds for your extended trip abroad doing volunteerism. Even when you have set aside a preordained budget, chances are there might be times when you will be forced to spend on some things that you did not expect. In this regard, it is prudent to have your credit card or international ATM card at the ready for such contingencies.

Volunteering has its ups and downs like any other job, but the rewards you get from the experience will surely make an impact. This guide can definitely steer you in the right direction when you need a bit of help. Always remember to keep an open mind so you may broaden your horizons in the process.




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