Whether you’re young or old, volunteering can be an excellent opportunity for you to give back to a community, whether it’s through conservation efforts or working with the elderly. We’ve recently talked about how you can tell if volunteering is for you, such as the challenges and rewards you’ll see when offering your services.
While helping others is the main reason for volunteering, you’ll also start to see some of the benefits of your actions, from a reduction in your stress levels to improving your physical fitness. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, volunteering abroad can offer life-altering cultural experiences!
1. Learn a new language
The biggest perk you’ll get from volunteering abroad is learning a new language. Although English is widely spoken around the world, to fully embrace the experience abroad, it’ll be beneficial to learn the native tongue. With the number of different languages available, learning a language online has never been easier, especially if you’re volunteering abroad.
For example, whether you’re wanting to master speaking everyday Spanish, or just want to get to grips with conquering the basic reading and writing skills of Danish, experienced tutors will be available to help with what you need. By learning the language before you go, you’ll also be able to pick up additional tips and tricks while you’re traveling, as well as be able to communicate better.
2. See the world
This seems a pretty obvious benefit to volunteering abroad, but taking this leap will offer you the chance to see different cultures and countries from a unique perspective – yours. When you consider the climate crisis, volunteering with a responsible organization will allow you to travel to other countries with a purpose, allowing you to reduce your carbon footprint with activities that are ethical and sustainable.
It is also an excellent way to fully embrace a culture that’s different from your own. For example, Sri Lanka is one of the most popular places to volunteer abroad. You’ll not only be able to put your new language to the test, but you’ll also be able to learn and embrace new customs, behaviors, and traditions, which are things you can’t experience fully from a geography textbook.
3. Gain professional experience
While this might not be your main reason for wanting to volunteer, the experience can look good on your resume and can lead to future employment. You’ll also make long-lasting friendships, as well as interesting connections, which could come in your favor later in life. The volunteering experience may make you want to look for a career that allows you to give back, whether you want to donate your time and skills or use your empathy to help animals and humans.
While volunteering abroad can be an incredible opportunity, it’s always good to make sure that everything is in order before you travel. If you’re spending months to a year abroad, you’ll want your finances to be managed, to have spent time with your family, and get any pesky health concerns out of the way. If you’ve dealt with all those, then you’re set to have an experience that’ll run smoothly, as well as be able to make a whole host of memories for all the right reasons.