Change the World. No Passport Required
Want to be an international volunteer without leaving your nation, or even your town? There are plenty of ways in which you can make a difference. And many involve working one-on-one with people in need. Here are just a few ideas to get you inspired.
Welcome the kids.
Perhaps you studied abroad in college or participated in a foreign exchange program during your youth. The practice of hosting students from other countries is as popular as ever, and today the process is easier than ever. The American Councils for International Education can connect you with high school students from around the globe, including exchange programs for students affected by natural disasters, and professional fellowship participants seeking short-term accommodations.
Give a hand in your native tongue.
Have you ever visited a foreign country that speaks a different language, and challenged yourself to interact with the locals? Now imagine the challenges those residents would face if they were to visit the United States to study, work, or become permanent residents. As a volunteer for the ILC, you can help as a language teacher, guest speaker or classroom volunteer. If you’re fluent in a language other than English, you can volunteer to teach English as a second language. And if you reside in the New York area, you can help individuals navigate the legal system.
Help a new family feel at home.
For people who have made the permanent move to the United States, many have come to escape a dangerous environment and seek safety for their children. As a volunteer with The Refugee Center, you can provide assistance that goes beyond language familiarization, to help individuals rebuild their lives. They offer free online video training to help prepare you for multiple opportunities.
Give them a tour of the town.
Students from all around the world come to the United States on backpacking adventures, often for weeks or months at a time. As a volunteer with Hosteling International, you can make them feel welcome, show them around and build your personal and professional skills.
Contribute in comfort.
Want to help people around the world from the comfort of your own home? There are plenty of opportunities to do that, too. When you volunteer for dosomething.org, you’ll join forces with 6 million people from around the world and have the flexibility to choose and filter your preferences according to your passion and available time.
For more ideas and inspiration try this simple search and use keyword “international.”
