Anyone been on a charity trip?

Question

Like to romania, or africa, to an orphanage or something? i quite fancy it but have no idea where to start!!

Answer 1

I've volunteered in several African countries, as well as in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. I HIGHLY recommend it!! I call it my 'selfish' work because it so incredibly rewarding. We're filled up on the outside with all of our 'stuff' but I find people in developing countries so full on the inside, where it counts.

To find organizations that arrange volunteer opportunities, go to the following websites as they have databases with loads of opportunities:
http://www.goabroad.com
http://www.transitionsabroad.com
http://www.idealist.org

When deciding where to go and what to do, think about what kind of experience you want to have. For example, rural or urban? in a developed country or developing country? one that speaks a language you know, or do you want the challenge of learning a new one? live with other volunteers, on your own, or with a local family? what kind of work do you want to do? what kind of living conditions - running water, electricity, phone, internet? what kind of health risks and immunizations are required for the country you're thinking of going to? how long are you wanting to go?

I recommend going for a minimum 2 months, if possible, because it takes time to get to know your way around, the culture, the people, your job, etc. and before you know it, you're back on the plane again!

To help you choose which organization to go with, ask if you can speak to their former volunteers, looking at what support they cover - you should get enough pre-travel info so that you know what to expect and how to adapt to your new culture, what screening they do - I avoid ones that take anyone and everyone, what in-country support they give, how long they've been in operation, and just what kind of vibe you get from their website and by talking to them on the phone.

Read up on the country and the culture before you go so you can be well-prepared. If you are patient, open to different ideas and ways of doing things, flexible, and have a sense of humour then you'll have a fantastic experience that will be life changing!

My overseas experiences have been challenging and tough at times, but yet the best times of my life. I have also learned so much from the indigenous people I've met - so warm, friendly, joyful, courageous, and to be greatly admired.

Answer 2

I have been twice the year to Lakeshore Mississippi. There is where the eye of Hurricane Katrina came thru. Total devastation. I helped build a home for a family living in a fema trailor, also helped build a hut and a tent for people to sleep in while volunteering. Just do a search for volunteer missions in your state. For me I attend a baptist church and our state has a baptist website where you can learn about mission trips and when they are going, remember it takes a month or more to get a passport plus you have to get a visa, be planning way ahead. Good luck and God bless you. If you have questions just send me an email.

Answer 3

Hi,

I did a sort of DIY job with a mate, in that we bought a big generator from the company we worked for at rock-bottom price, along with water pumps and all the gubbins, and shipped it all out to a Zambian village to install during our summer holidays.

The whole show worked a treat. Kids having a shower, and lights on in the housing. etc.
Even air-conditioning in the local school.

It was not through an organised charity, just a thought.

Great fun was had by all, and I am proud of our joint achievement.

The Chief of the town gave us little medals made by the kids, so I was humbled.

I only wanted to take our expertise and equipment to a remote place in need !

Hey Ho.

Bob

Answer 4

Yes... I've even escorted them in some countries because most AmeriKans don't know any language but AmeriKan.

You can expect to pay anywhere from $1000 to $5000 plus airfare for any of the chairty trips sponsored by the various groups.

Check with the churches in your area... most know of some group going to some 3rd world country for a couple of weeks.

Answer 5

www.risingfountains.org

Email Mathias Zimba directly. It is a wonderful program and they are always looking for interns.

Also, Paper Houses Across The Border helps poor people in the colonias of Mexico. Visit www.paperhouses.org

Answer 6

I've been on a trips with my church (but most churches won't let non members/church goers go) and I've been twice with Cross Cultural Solutions...not cheap, but really great organization...I love Ghana!

Also, think about things you can do to help people here, not just abroad. Check out http://buyfair.blogspot.com

Good luck!

Answer 7

I raised money and went to Australia to build a school for the Joshua foundation (a little boy who died) it was the best experience of my life so far...Contact some of the foundations that you really believe in and they might be able to help you out