воскресенье, 22 мая 2016 г.

Tips To Consider When You Volunteer In Developing Countries

By Joseph Reed


Becoming a volunteer might sound like a fabulous thing for some people, but there is more to it than just having the opportunity to go abroad. Leaving everything you know behind in order to help people struggling with issues like poverty, homelessness, and war is something to be taken very seriously. To learn more on how you can survive this undertaking, consider these tips listed below.

Be prepared to rough it out because this job primarily does away with the creature comforts you are used to having at home. When you are a volunteer in developing countries, chances are you will be living and working in very squalid conditions, and this is not for the faint of heart. Not only do you have to be physically able to handle this, but you should also be mentally prepared for the challenge.

When you are given your placement from the recruitment office, you should immediately do your homework and learn everything about the country you are going to. Go online and research the geography and culture of the nation, as well as its core demographics. Most importantly, learn the language as much as you can so you could communicate with the locals upon your arrival.

Do not assume that this trip is a vacation because you are not traveling to exotic destinations to just have fun. As such, bring only the most essential and reusable items like clothes and sturdy shoes, which can fit inside a single heavy duty backpack for easy mobility when traveling from place to place. Anything that is superfluous or does not serve a purpose to your trip should be left at home.

Prior to your departure, get yourself tested for any diseases and make sure you get all the necessary vaccinations and medical shots which will boost your immunity against any foreign illnesses. This is a mandatory requirement that all volunteers have to comply before leaving. You certainly do not want to fall sick in a country with limited access to advanced medical facilities.

As a supplement to the previous statement, you must also be vigilant when it comes to helping the lives of others. Therefore, possessing the skills and knowledge on simple medical procedures will prove beneficial when the need to use them shall arise. Examples of the things you should practice include the application of first aid as well as knowing how to perform CPR.

As a foreigner in an unfamiliar land, you are prone to being a target for swindlers, so be on constant alert for such deviants. However, you should also put a little faith in humanity because not everyone is out to harm you. Be friendly and polite to the locals, and do not be afraid to engage with them because a large part of your volunteer job requires you to interact with them on a daily basis.

Finally, you should be prudent when it comes to finances so make sure your bank account is considerably ample before you leave. There is a possibility that you might need to spend more than your intended budget, so having access to backup funds is crucial. Do not bring loose cash with you, so use your international ATM or credit card as most businesses accept these forms of payment.

Volunteering in a foreign country can be enriching, and it might just change your perspective on how the world works in different cultures. Take these handy pieces of advice to heart, and you will surely achieve your altruistic goals. Be confident and always trust your instincts throughout your journey.




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