Through the years, with the introduction of voluntourism, the idea of rendering help in a third world country has become a trend. As a result, most third-party organizations that find opportunites for volunteering in third world countries with volunteers charge an exorbitant amount of program fees.
Ranging from US$1000 to $4000, volunteering should not come at such a high price. Many people who want to offer a hand are young budget travelers, who do not mind working hard in exchange for a simple shelter and food.
Fortunately, there are still some non-profit grassroots organizations that act as excellent middlemen, linking up both parties, without a fee. Instead of allowing the major international organizations to benefit, volunteering through these grassroots organizations will truly benefit the local communities that genuinely need help.
Funds raised can be donated to rebuilding a school or buying food for the poor and needy, instead of going into the pockets of the third parties.
This is a list of some grassroots organizations that provide free volunteering placements worldwide.
VFP is a big non-profit organization from the UK, and has a long list of volunteering placements on its website. One of the most recent positions (March 2009) includes teaching English at Sudanese Universities, with no placement fees required. Volunteers are matched according to their expertise. Volunteers from any part of the world can apply for a placement through VFP.
Network for Voluntary Development in Asia (NVDA)
This organization helps Asian-based volunteers interested in humanitarian work find placement all over the world. A small fee (approximately $200/month) is required for the placement, but it also covers food and accommodation. It is difficult to find organizations as such in Asia, and the NVDA offers substantial guidance to volunteers and helps them in adapting to the new environment.
International Humanity Foundation (IHF)
With only a fee of US$50 per week to be paid directly to the director upon arrival, IHF connects volunteers directly with local schools, or organizations. From medical programs in Kenya to educational activities in Bali, it offers a wide variety of choices in the type of humanitarian work a volunteer can specialize in.
World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF)
This is an extraordinary organization that places members for a 20 GBP membership. Members can then access its comprehensive list of available hosts and contact them directly to arrange a stay. Volunteers do not pay anything to the host, and neither do the hosts need to pay the volunteers for their help. There are over 6,000 hosts in 88 countries.
Volunteering is a great way for the volunteer to learn about life, about cultural differences and contribute to communities in need. These grassroots organizations assure an amazing experience for both the giving and receiving end, in this beautiful act of kindness.
Nellie Huang - Nellie is an atypical Asian, who journeys around the world in search of heaven. She finds one too many of it, and has been drunk and dizzy ...
