Ways To Make Difference With Volunteer Vietnam Mission Trips

By Deborah Smith


After young people have graduated from high school or college, they often want to spend some time just for themselves before they start job hunting. Some opt for the sun, sand, and surf, while others take off for a theme park filled with rides, restaurants, and parades. Still others decide to spend a few weeks or months participating in a volunteer program like the Vietnam mission trips offered by a variety of organizations. Not only are they more worthwhile, they are also affordable and memorable.

Not only will you see a part of this world most of your friends and family have never seen, you will have a real chance to learn how local people cope with the restrictions and lack of conveniences most Americans take for granted. Most companies that offer these packages have plans that last from a week to six months. Plane fare, vaccinations, travel insurance, and spending money are not included, but you will have support, training, and accommodations taken care of.

Volunteers do not need to be seasoned professionals to work in these communities. If you are interested in teaching, you can spend your vacation in a classroom helping a local teacher teach verbal skills and participating in some vocational training sessions. You may be called on to assist with English lessons as well. Many certified teachers who wish to volunteer are allowed to work independently in the classroom.

Those who have environmental concerns can choose to work with jungle and coastal programs aimed to conserve and protect those areas. Organic and sustainable farming operations usually need workers, especially those who don't mind the heat and hard labor. Volunteers may end up working alongside world renowned biologists and ecologists representing international organizations or with local community leaders dedicated to preserving natural habitats.

Wildlife conservation is another area where volunteers are almost always needed. You can learn conservation techniques and get valuable insight into endangered species. Volunteers also work to improve, preserve and protect fragile ecosystems. Abandoned animals are a big problem in this area of the world, and volunteers are often placed in areas where they spend time caring for abandoned domestic animals.

Artists and musicians often volunteer to teach their skills to classrooms of children. They may teach the basics needed to play native instruments or paint with found materials. Community centers are also places where creative individuals can share their talents with adults.

Those with interests in the social services area often decide to volunteer to assist with the special needs and elderly population. They may be involved in everything from physical rehabilitation to personal hygiene. Some volunteers assist teachers in special needs classrooms. Others work with seniors in social services settings. Seniors often need basic help feeding themselves, moving from dining chairs to walkers or wheelchairs, and navigating steps or ramps.

Taking a volunteer vacation gives participants a unique view of the world. They are able to meet and interact with local people in their communities as they go about their everyday lives. Many volunteers feel they have gained more than they have given.




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