Teaching English as a volunteer has become an increasingly popular choice for those seeking to make a difference and immerse themselves in diverse cultures. While opportunities abound globally, some top destinations include South America's remote communities, Asia's bustling cities, and Africa's rural schools. Each region offers a unique experience, from the rich histories of Cambodia and Peru to the vibrant traditions of Kenya and Colombia.
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Why should you teach English as a volunteer?
Here are some variations on the volunteering theme.
Affordable volunteer program (starting from $180)
Why should you teach English as a volunteer?
Teaching English as a volunteer not only impacts communities in need but also offers profound personal benefits. Here are some compelling reasons to consider this route:
- Cultural Immersion: Experience a country's essence firsthand and immerse deeply in its traditions.
- Skill Enhancement: It is a practical way to familiarize yourself with the teaching profession.
- Flexibility: Enjoy the experience without long-term contractual obligations.
- Authentic Living: Opportunities often include residing with host families, providing genuine cultural exposure.
- Resume Boost: Volunteering showcases adaptability, initiative, and a willingness to embrace challenges on your CV.
- Personal Growth: Serving others fosters humility and a broader worldview.
- Language Acquisition: Living in a foreign country accelerates language learning through immersion.
Where can you volunteer?
There are volunteer opportunities available on every continent and within many countries in each continent. There are too many opportunities to mention individually and the best idea is to do an internet search for any country you are particularly interested in.
What do you mean by best?
There is obviously no 'best' place to volunteer as each individual will have their own criteria and desires. The most important thing is to look for opportunities that best match what you want. If you really want to learn a new language for example, what opportunities are there on the program to allow you to do that? If you have to teach 50 hours a week on a program you will be too tired to do anything else.
Are you willing to put up with discomfort? Volunteering, by its nature, takes place in many countries that cannot afford to pay salaries and therefore need unpaid workers. These countries may not have the infrastructure and facilities you are used to. It is important to do your research so you are not overwhelmed with what you find when you arrive 'in-country'.
Here are some variations on the volunteering theme.
Free volunteering
There are a number of volunteer opportunities that you can undertake for free. Some of the better known programs are:
1. VSO
Take a look at the VSO website
2. WWOOF
Take a look at the WWOOF website
3. Peace Corps
Take a look at the Peace Corps website
Affordable volunteer program (starting from $180)
International Volunteer HQ
Take a look at the International Volunteer HQ website
Volunteer program with pay
UN volunteers
UN Volunteers can receive a monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA)
Take a look at the UN Volunteers website
Paid volunteer programs
There are too many of these to list, but use all the information previously discussed to carefully research any program to ensure your expectations will be met when you pay to volunteer.
Organizations such as the International Forum for Volunteering in Development can provide useful information and insight into various programs around the world.
