Volunteerism on the rise

New research conducted by Travelocity indicates that as many as 38 per cent of vacationing Americans plan to do some volunteer work this year.

Volunteerism is growing in popularity, with an increasing number of operations in the travel industry responding accordingly. But while there are any number of companies promising a rewarding volunteer opportunity, it is still possible to do it yourself, provided, of course, you have time to do a little research first.

There are many important questions that need to be asked before planning a volunteer trip. Can you communicate in the local language of your destination of choice? What are the particular needs and challenges of the area you have chosen? What local politics might affect your work? Perhaps the most important question you can ask yourself is what skills you have to contribute to the local community?

If you happen to find yourself somewhere with some extra time to spare and a desire to good, try visiting a school, church or orphanage, or speaking with teachers, clergymen, or clinic staff. In many cases, people are looking for help with English language instruction or a host of odd jobs they made need help with.

Of course, the best way to go is to organize ahead of time. Asking around for volunteer opportunities abroad is an interesting way to get to know your own community and find volunteer work close to home as well. Lots of areas have refugees and immigrants in need of ESL just as much as countries abroad

www.travelocity.co.uk