Use Your Vacation to Help Ease Others' Burdens

Volunteering can be a great experience at any age, says Kristin Lamoureux ‘97, director of the International Institute of Tourism Studies at George Washington University. When choosing a volunteer trip consider the following, she advises:

• Pick a trip you’re ready for physically, mentally and financially.
• Search for organizations that offer the type of projects you want. Both nonprofit and for-profit organizations offer volunteer travel opportunities.
• Evaluate your choices. How long has the sponsoring organization been in business? What do previous clients say about it?
• Question the trip sponsor. Unethical practices can mean a bad experience for you and the local population. How much say does the local community have about the type of projects done? Does the organization have a regular presence in the community? How long has the relationship existed?
• Have realistic expectations. Don’t expect a life change from a two-week vacation. Temper your expectations and you’ll have a great time.
• Pack, get ready and go.

For more information on volunteer vacations, consult:
Lonely Planet World Expeditions
The Council on International Educational Exchange
Brave New Traveler
Habitat for Humanity 
Earthwatch