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September 2007 Newsletter
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There are loads of reasons why volunteering abroad is a fantastic experience. But recently, the press have run articles that questioned the validity of volunteering abroad, saying that some projects are more about providing the volunteers with an experience and implying that they are not worthwhile or sustainable. | |
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Here's what's in it for the projects:
- Help for the local people that work in the project
- Money for the projects which is spent in the local economy
- Hands-on help from you for the people, animals or environment
"Volunteers have made all the improvements at this wildlife centre. It is their donations, hard work and dedication that drive the project forward and give orang-utans in this part of the world a great chance of survival"
Guillaume Feldman, Malaysia Orang-Utan Experience
- Especially for the children, the joy of realising that people out there in the big wide world really do care about them
- Short term volunteer projects still make a big difference
"Going for 4 - 8 weeks is still very worthwhile. Just ask some of the orphaned children in Africa whether they would rather do without someone to cuddle them, help feed them, paint murals on their walls and teach them some English to get them into local schools."
Chloe Myers Africa Projects Manager
Here's what you will gain from the trip:
- The wonderful feeling of providing help where it is really needed
- An opportunity to learn new skills you could not acquire at home
- A deeper interest and awareness in global issues
"Now that I have seen a little of what suffering looks like, I am committed to an onward pursuit to help others, no matter how insignificant my contributions may appear. I know now that ripples really can turn into waves"
Karen Higgins, Sri Lanka Orphanage Project
- The experience of living in the developing world, without all the usual home comforts
- A life changing experience and memories that will last a lifetime
"Honestly, this was the single most rewarding travelling experience I have ever had. It was not always easy, but looking back I learnt so much and saw such a vast scope of human and geographical beauty that I will always value this adventure very highly"
Natasha Swanson, Rajastan Desert Project
Read what other volunteers have said. |
Make a REAL difference by joining us! |
We offer hundreds of volunteer programmes all over the world, here are a few ideas:
India: Rajasthan Volunteer
Help educate young Indian children so they have better job prospects in the future or act like a big kid yourself as you try to keep the members of the local day care centre entertained!
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Kenya: Orphan and Community Outreach
Give much needed love, attention and school support to orphans to boost their education and self-confidence. Give out relief supplies to impoverished local families in the heart of Kenya. A brilliant way to make daily lives a little bit less of a struggle.
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Australia: CVA Volunteering
Enjoy the fresh air, feel the Aussie sun on your back and take on an environmental conservation challenge! 10 locations throughout Australia to choose from (bush, beach and city) and loads of different activities and ways to get involved.
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Costa Rica: Orphanages and Homes
Watch the abandoned, neglected and orphaned children of San Jose flourish under your care and attention, gaining in confidence and having fun. You can release your inner child by playing games, baking, singing and doing arts and crafts!
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Volunteering not for you?
Visit www.realgap.co.uk to see our huge range of programmes:
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