Vietnam Mission Trips Offer Volunteers A Chance To Make A Difference

By Deborah Smith


Not all young people are interested in spending their summers after graduation at the beach or at some elaborate theme park. Many of them are curious about the world and want to learn more about different cultures by doing something constructive and positive when they travel abroad. These young adults may not be certain what they want to do with the rest of their lives, but they are sure giving back to the global community will be part of it. For them volunteer Vietnam mission trips are a great way to start.

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.

Volunteers are needed to assist with elder and special needs care and education. In addition to teaching classes, individuals are enlisted to assist with physical therapy sessions and personal grooming. Families often have few resources when it comes to caring for family members with special needs. Some communities have social services centers where people, who can't care for themselves, gather during the day. Volunteers help man the centers and assist the clients.

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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