Almost every volunteer work abroad programs would need the additional pair of hands for their ventures. The question is: would one of these pair of hands be yours? Here are a few things to consider.

1. Exactly what country do you propose to go to? Volunteers are welcome in most parts of the world; but only if the country, city or locale you intend to go to is not in any particular political or military turmoil. Economic turmoil is relatively manageable as most cases go; but when your own personal safety cannot be guaranteed by the country’s government nor by your own, then it would be more difficult for you to get tickets there; or much less accommodations during your entire stay. You can continue to do so, but it would be on your own behalf and risk.

Also, it is necessary to be able to speak the local dialect or national language to a degree. Communication is vital and in most organizations who accept volunteer service from willing participants, volunteers must at least take one or more course on speaking the vernacular. A few international volunteer organizations provide such services; but in most cases, they would expect you to do this on your own time, and using your own resources.

2. Speaking of resources, you do not become a volunteer (and an international volunteer at that) thinking that you will not be spending a single dime. It is with more likelihood that you will be spending a lot of money before you even begin your volunteering services. Aside from paying for your own foreign language courses, you may have to pay for your own plane tickets; your visa; travel and life insurance; transportation while inside the country of your choosing. Meals too are expenses that should come out of your own pocket; as well as your own (bottled) water supply and a host of others.

Usually, accommodations are on a referral basis; and some volunteers are to stay within the home of a host (or hostess) or in an apartment shared by other volunteers (that are paid for by the organization.) However, these are ideal situations. There may come a point where you may have to pay for your lodging as well, not to mention additional gear (like tools for whatever project you are assigned to) and personal effects (like clothes, shoes, etc.)

3. Lastly, what possible contributions could you provide the organization you are lending your services with? Depending on your educational background, as well as background in community effort service (if you have one); and previous volunteering work, the organization will most likely assign you to where they think you will serve the community’s best interest. Needless to say, you may not be assigned to the specific task, or community that you would want. However, it takes a person with an open mind and a ready sense of adventure to accept what possible task is assigned.

So if you think you can handle all these, then yes, volunteers like you are very much welcome.