Why volunteer?

It’s become highly more acceptable for young people across the globe to volunteer in foreign countries. Majority of these volunteers are young people and I’m sure you as a possible volunteer might be asking the following question…

But Why? Why not just go on a holiday or have a gap year?

Generally the most common reason is to give something back. Wanting to help others, wishing to do good and hoping to make a difference are all important reasons to volunteer. But let’s be honest - this isn’t always the convincing factor that makes you feel you’ve spent your time well, there is more reasons. Volunteering is an excellent way to get under the skin of a country and come to grips with a difference culture. The cultural-exchange element in volunteering abroad is a key part of both you and your hosts will get out of the whole experience. Plus, you can build volunteering into almost any segment of your travels, whether you decide to arrange it formally or just turn up and find a placement yourself.

The educational aspect of volunteering is equally crucial. In almost every placement you’ll have the opportunity to learn a foreign language or to brush up on one. And many of the new skills you’ll acquire or develop can be used back home in your profession.

Many volunteers have found that international volunteering has either helped their career or given them the necessary experience to change careers. International volunteering helps to increase the understanding of development issues, consolidate practical skills, and gain first hand-experience of working in the field.

WorkTravelSA.org has various volunteer programs available for you to start your abroad volunteering walk. Volunteer programs range from wildlife conservation, orphan outreach programs, community development to township development. There are so many arenas where you can make a difference and more importantly where you learn about other cultures that make differences in your own life and career.

Get started, get volunteering today!

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Some interesting facts about elephants…

Did you know about Elephants…

• By flapping it’s ears, an elephant can lower its body temperature by 3ºC
• A baby elephant has nearly perfectly Africa-shaped ears
• As elephants mature, their ears get nicked and torn, giving them very distinctive identifying characteristics
• If an elephant charges with ears flapping, it may only be a mock charge, but if the ears are folded back against the head, the charge is for real!

Ever been interested in working with elephants?

Well WorkTravelSA.org offers interesting wildlife volunteer programs. Volunteer programs where you get to experience international expeditions in Africa and get to assist nature conservationists protect wildlife while making many new friends. So if you looking for some adventure this summer be sure to check out our abroad volunteer programs.