Why pay to volunteer abroad?
Those volunteering abroad have an immediate choice: to volunteer with an organisation or to arrange their own volunteer programme.
Each offers unique benefits and challenges and deciding which is best for you will depend on your own experience and aspirations.
Arranging your own volunteering
While arranging your own volunteer work means you don’t have to pay a fee up front, it is only advised for those with significant experience of volunteering abroad. Independent volunteers run the risk of wasting their time and energy working in communities where they aren’t needed, or running into trouble and being left isolated and unsupported.
Volunteering with an organisation
Although organisations request a fee, this provides you with a range of services and support that make it the best option for most volunteers. Paying for volunteer work overseas is often the most effective way to donate your time and money to overseas NGOs and charities who do not have the skills or resources to recruit volunteers directly. Volunteering organisations identify and support projects in genuine need so career break volunteers do not run the risk of wasting time and energy on unproductive projects. Organisations also allow you to volunteer abroad with the confidence of having overseas and in-country support and management, to safeguard you against any dangers or difficulties.
Why volunteer with Inspire?
At Inspire we provide volunteer programmes that give you the chance to make a long-term impact in underprivileged communities, with projects that are sustainable, accountable and fully supported by our UK and in-country teams.
Here’s what our volunteer fee gives you:
Inspiring projects
We identify and select only the most worthwhile overseas projects and those in genuine need of the support of career break volunteers. These are constantly monitored to ensure they deliver sustainable results and we endeavour to match you to organisations where you skills and experience will have their greatest impact.
Comprehensive preparation
Our UK staff are experts in volunteer work overseas and are at hand to provide any advice and guidance that you need. From assistance on processing your visa to an in-depth pre-departure briefing, we ensure that you are fully prepared for your volunteer experience.
In-country orientation & support
Living and working in a new country can be a bewildering experience, but our in-country teams are at hand to support you throughout your volunteer abroad experience. Your fee includes an airport pick up, guided orientation and welcome pack, as well as continued supervision and guidance from local coordinators.
Accommodation & meals
In most cases your project fee covers all accommodation for the duration of your volunteer programme. This is usually a twin-share in a local homestay, but other arrangements can be made at your discretion. Home-cooked breakfast and dinner is also provided, giving you the chance to sample local delicacies.
It’s also worth noting what’s not included:
- International flights (see flights & insurance for partner offers)
- Visas, vaccinations and travel insurance
- Local transport
- Personal expenses
