Posted on 26.10.09 Why Pay To Volunteer?
Kenali dan Kunjungi Objek Wisata di Pandeglang : Gap year students looking for something different, challenging and life changing to do with their year off are increasingly making volunteering part of their travel plans. Not only is volunteering a fantastic way to develop skills, make friends, get some valuable life experience, it’s also a brilliant opportunity to do something worthwhile.
Kerja Keras Adalah Energi Kita - The concept of paying to do something so worthwhile can seem a little strange, but is in fact a vital part of keeping projects around the world going. Volunteer providers often come under fire and it’s not surprising; it’s all too easy to forget that getting volunteers to projects takes a lot of organisation, supporting volunteers in-country takes money and giving projects the help they need doesn’t come cheap. It is, however, important to feel that the money you spend is a worthwhile investment, so here are a few points to help set your mind at rest…
A surprisingly large safety net
Though setting off into the sunset and making a difference alone does have a certain appeal, knowing that there will be someone there to help if anything goes wrong is always reassuring. Volunteering is no package holiday, there won’t be someone holding your hand every step of the way but going through a company will provide you with a global and in-country support network.
In-country you will normally get an airport pickup and a local project coordinator who will give you full country orientation, take you through your paces and stick around to make sure your adventure stays an incredible experience. Not only a comforting presence, the programme coordinator will be a fountain of knowledge; they’ll be able to show you the sights tourists never see and give you a unique insight into local life.
With companies like Real Gap, you will also have 24-hour access to a dedicated emergency back-up team, ready and waiting to deal with emergencies like missed flights or minor concerns like where to buy shampoo. It’s easy to feel brave when you’re sitting comfortably at home but you can never over-estimate the importance of knowing there’s someone there if you need them.
Keeping it local
Choosing your company carefully will go a long way towards determining how well your money is spent. Responsible volunteer companies such as Real Gap only work with pre-established local projects, with local project coordinators. This means that you can be sure the help you’re giving is genuinely needed and that the work you’re doing will make a lasting difference.
Part of your fee will cover the cost of your accommodation, food and expenses in-country, which will all normally be sorted out for you. Responsible volunteer providers will ensure that you stay in locally owned accommodation, eat local food and use local materials; this means that you will be making a substantial financial investment in the local community just by being there.