For volunteers
You want to volunteer abroad
Volunteer Aware is happy to promote international volunteering. But we also know it comes with plenty of pitfalls. An unfamiliar country, a different culture with very different customs and traditions. It asks a lot of you as a volunteer and of the people who host you.
Outside your comfort zone
The unfamiliar is part of it
Misunderstandings, lack of understanding and wrong expectations happen more often than you might think. Yet the unfamiliar and the uncertain are an inseparable part of the challenge. The real strength lies in getting to know yourself (better) when you step outside your comfort zone.
If you are well prepared and have the tools for an honest and open attitude, it can be the start of an unforgettable experience. And if you are well received on site and guided towards honest, meaningful tasks, with open contact with your new surroundings, it all becomes even better.
What to look out for
Look at the organisation
Don't just buy a ticket to the other side of the world. Take the time to look closely at the organisation that arranges it for you.
Use the index
Don't rush into it. Dig into our transparency index and compare organisations with each other.
Choose committed people
Volunteer Aware is made up of organisations that care about responsible volunteering and take a critical look at themselves too.
Questions? Just email us
We will make sure your questions are answered by honest, committed and experienced insiders in international volunteering.