Voluntourism: A Vacation That Makes a Difference
Is your idea of a perfect vacation spending time alone on a beach with a good book? Or would you prefer a more active experience where you are part of a group, challenging yourself, and using your talents and skills to help others? If the latter sounds more appealing, then a volunteer vacation might be right for you.
A volunteer vacation allows you to give back, meet new people who share your interests, and immerse yourself in a different culture — with experiences that are not available to the average tourist. If you love the outdoors, you can work on a national parks project in the United States or travel with a conservation group to Peru. If you want to work with children, you can find a service project at an orphanage in Haiti or volunteer at a camp for children with special needs in Hawaii. Or you could make a difference teaching English at a school in a major city, working on an art conservation project in a museum, or caring for injured animals at a zoo.
Some basics
Trip lengths vary, but many last from one to four weeks. During that time, you’ll be expected to devote a substantial number of hours to project work. Yet volunteer vacations aren’t all work and no play. Trips generally incorporate rest days or leisure periods where you’re free to explore on your own or participate in a group tour, giving you unique insight into the area and a chance to unwind.
Some people are surprised that there’s a cost associated with volunteering, but you’ll typically need to pay for your own travel expenses. You may be able to deduct certain trip-related expenses when you file your federal income tax return. To do so, your trip must be sponsored by a qualified charitable organization, the personal element of your trip must be insignificant, and you must itemize deductions on your tax return. Consult with a tax professional if you have questions.
Before you sign up for a volunteer vacation, research the organization, including its tax status and how long it has been offering similar trips. Be sure that you understand exactly what you will be doing each day, what the organization will provide, and what your costs will be, including airfare, meals, lodging, local transportation, and insurance. With advance preparation, you might embark on a fun and meaningful adventure.
Many organizations offer volunteer vacations. Here are three to get you started.
American Hiking Society (americanhiking.org/volunteer-vacations) —
rugged, outdoor experiences working on U.S. hiking trails
in beautiful landscapes (projects range from easy to strenuous).
International Volunteer HQ (volunteerhq.org) —
volunteer vacation opportunities in 48 countries (including programs
for seniors).
Go Overseas (gooverseas.com/volunteer-abroad) —
links to a variety of overseas volunteer opportunities, with a blog (gooverseas.com/blog/best-volunteer-programs-for-older-travelers) that focuses on specific opportunities for seniors.