Global Volunteers

What is it? Founded in 1984 in St. Paul, MN, Global Volunteers is a non-governmental organization (NGO) that has a special consultative status with the United Nations. Its mandate is to build bridges between people of different cultures by involving them in service projects, including teaching English-language conversation skills, and building or repairing homes or community buildings. Global Volunteers also matches up medical professionals with local health clinics in countries such as Ecuador, Ghana, and Romania. Global Volunteers is active in more than 20 countries.

Don’t miss Even elementary school-age children can become teachers by becoming conversation partners with local kids. Other projects include activities like constructing or renovating community buildings.

Keep in mind Depending on the destination, special vaccinations may be required.

The minimum age for participants is 8. Global Volunteers has a wide range of programs, and parents should talk to the volunteer coordinator about the appropriateness of the projects for their children. Potential participants are encouraged to apply as early as possible (the organization posts its upcoming projects a year in advance, so it’s easy to find out what’s happening when). A lead-time of several months is required, as all applicants must be approved by the organization before they can take part in a project. No special skills are required to volunteer, though there are special projects that are open only to people with medical or teaching backgrounds.

How much? From $750 per person for projects within the US; from $1,370 to international locations. The fee includes accommodations, food and local transportation, but not airfare to the project site. Because of Global Volunteers’ NGO status, part of the fee is tax-deductible.

Find out more Visit http://www.globalvolunteers.org/ or call 800-487-1074.