- Conduct thorough research on possible organisations that interest you — you want to make sure that your time and money are going to a legitimate cause!
- Choose an organisation that you are passionate about — you will be more motivated and enjoy volunteering more when you’re working with a group that interests you!
- Before volunteering, ask for contact information from previous volunteers to get their input on the organisation.
- Find out what percentage of your money actually goes to support the intended cause — you don’t want your donation misused!
- Safety is a priority! Seek out additional advice from members of the volunteer organisation on how to obtain health and travel insurance as well as the best way to handle your money while travelling internationally.
- Be culturally aware! Read materials on cultural expectations and customs. Most countries will function differently than your own. It’s important to be sensitive to these cultural differences.
- Most importantly: Dare to be adventurous! One of the best parts about volunteering internationally is the adventure! Don’t be afraid to take a leap and try something new, no matter how foreign it might seem to you at the time. International volunteering is a life-shaping experience!
Constru Casa is a non-profit organisation offering basic housing to families living in extreme poverty in rural communities outside of Antigua,Guatemala. Constru Casa always works in collaboration with local partner organisations to identify and select families of exceptional need. Beneficiary families participate in the construction of their home and also pay back one fourth of the total cost of their house over four years. Constru Casa collaborates with its partner organisations also in other construction projects and community service programs. For more information on Constru Casa please visit our website at: www.construcasa.org. If you are interested in volunteering with us, please email voluntario@construcasa.org.
(Image by andrew and hobbes)
