By Karen Morian

Servas members know that traveling changes the way we see the world. Volunteering abroad can deepen the ways we interact with other people, improve our perspective on global issues, and maybe even rewrite what’s important in our own lives. We can experience all this while changing the lives of others for the better. Try volunteering to connect with other international volunteers and work alongside local community members to strengthen their communities.

Servas International is currently working to increase volunteering opportunities for members to travel AND to make a difference. In the meantime, consider volunteering with a well-established organization like Volunteers for Peace.

Volunteers for Peace is a Vermont-based nonprofit offering:

Meaningful, Cross-Cultural & Affordable Volunteer Opportunities

Sustainable, Community-led Projects

The Most Projects in the Most Countries for as little as $495 per project!

With nearly 3,000 projects offered annually all over the world, Volunteers For Peace has an array of options for you to choose from. Whether you already have a set of skills you’d like to further develop, or you’d like to explore a new area of interest, VFP can help you find the type of hands-on volunteer opportunity you’re looking for.

Types of projects include: working with people (children, elderly, refugees), physical labor (archaeology, agricultural or environmental projects), or language, social, or cultural projects.

In March, VFP has the largest number of volunteering opportunities available for the coming summer. Some are international and some may be near you but may include volunteers from around the world.

Volunteering abroad is an amazing opportunity no matter your age, background, or experience.  All volunteers bring their own unique skill sets and are welcomed with open arms by the local communities in which they serve. Whether you are a College Student, Recent Graduate or Adult Volunteer, VFP has a project for you.

Alternatively, you can list your local project with VFP to attract international volunteers. Your community benefits, and your neighbors have the opportunity to interact with folks from around the world, without leaving home.VFP has been Creating Peace Through Global Volunteering for Over 30 Years.

For more information, visit VFP.org

You can search by the country or countries you would like to travel to, or Search by Project Types and discover the best fit for you.

There are also Group Opportunities and Teens Only Projects.