Make your mark: the Powerful benefits of volunteering abroad
No matter how exciting and adventurous living abroad may be, it can often come with its challenges. For professionals who have moved to a new country, adapting to a new environment, culture, and social norms can be taxing on both their emotional and mental well-being. Volunteering abroad can help ease this transition to a new environment and have a positive overall impact on your mental well-being.
If you haven’t thought about it before, now is the time to discover the lasting impact that volunteering while living overseas can have on you and those around you.
1. Engage with the Community
Volunteering when living abroad is a great way to become more socially integrated in the local community. Not only does it provide an opportunity to meet new people and learn about different cultures, but it can also help you gain valuable skills and experiences that will be beneficial for your future.
Volunteering abroad can also give you access to resources and networks that may not otherwise be available. By engaging in volunteer activities, you can build relationships with locals, learn about the culture, and even gain language proficiency.
In addition, volunteering abroad can be a great way to make a positive impact on the local community while gaining invaluable life experience.
2. Feel More Connected to Your New Country
Living abroad, while exhilarating, can easily make you feel lonely and homesick. Volunteering is an excellent way for you to feel more connected to your new home. By working with local individuals or organizations, you’ll become more invested in the community’s success and growth, making you feel like an integral part of the place.
By dedicating your time and effort to local causes, you immerse yourself in the community, fostering a deeper understanding of its culture and values. Active participation not only enables you to develop meaningful relationships with locals but also contributes to your personal growth. This can be enriching your overall experience in your new home.
In turn, these connections and shared experiences help you feel more grounded, integrated, and ultimately, more connected to your adopted country.
According to a survey conducted by Expats.cz, they found that expats who volunteered were more likely to report higher levels of satisfaction and contentment with their life abroad.
3. Improve Your Mental Well-being
Making a difference in other people’s lives can give you a sense of accomplishment and purpose, which can, in turn, boost your mental health. The Corporation for National and Community Service found that volunteers reported lower levels of depression, increased life satisfaction, and a higher sense of well-being than non-volunteers. So, if you’re looking for a way to stay mentally healthy while living abroad, volunteering is a great option to consider.
4. Expand Your Professional Network
One of the most significant benefits of volunteering is the opportunity it provides to expand your professional network. Working with others who share your interests and values often leads to forming strong bonds, which can be incredibly helpful in your career. You never know when these new connections can open up doors for new job opportunities or collaborations.
5. Develop New Skills and Experiences
Volunteering not only provides mental health benefits but can also help you develop valuable new skills and experiences. These newfound abilities can be incredibly beneficial when it comes to your professional growth and career development. According to LinkedIn, more than 40% of hiring managers consider volunteer experience equally as valuable as paid work experience.
How Can you Find Volunteering Opportunities Overseas
In this section, we will delve into the diverse avenues through which you can discover and participate in volunteering opportunities while living abroad.
By understanding the local landscape and leveraging various resources, you can effectively identify causes that resonate with your personal values and interests. You will also find ways that you can contribute positively to your new surroundings, fostering meaningful connections and enhancing your overall well-being.
1. Research Local Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Charities
Many countries have NGOs and charities that focus on a range of social, environmental, and cultural issues. Conducting research on the organizations operating in your area will give you a better understanding of their work and whether their goals align with your interests. You can start by reaching out to them directly to inquire about available volunteer positions.
2. Utilize Online Volunteer Platforms
Several online platforms connect volunteers with organizations in need of assistance. Websites like Maximo Nigel, United Planet, and Volunteer Worl are great places to start searching for opportunities based on your location, interests, and availability. These platforms often provide detailed information about each project, making it easier for you to find a suitable match.
You can find detailed information on some of the programs you can access for opportunities to volunteer abroad by checking out The Ultimate Guide to the Best Programs for Volunteering Abroad.
3. Network with Other Expats and Locals
Connecting with fellow expats and locals can provide valuable insights into the community’s needs and potential volunteering opportunities. Attend local events, join expat clubs or groups, and participate in online forums to build connections with others who share your passion for giving back. They may be able to recommend organizations or initiatives that could use your help.
4. Contact Your Embassy or Consulate
Your home country’s embassy or consulate may have information about volunteer programs and initiatives in your host country. They may even have partnerships with local organizations and can point you in the right direction to find the most appropriate opportunities.
5. Offer Your Professional Skills
If you’re an expat professional, consider offering your skills and expertise to local organizations. Many NGOs and charities require assistance in areas like marketing, project management, or finance, and your unique skill set could be invaluable to their operations. Reach out to organizations that align with your interests and offer your services as a volunteer.
6. Teach or Tutor
If you’re fluent in English or another language, many schools, community centers, and NGOs are often in need of language tutors or teachers. Volunteering as a language instructor can be a rewarding way to connect with locals and make a difference in their lives.
Reap the Rewards of being Open to New Experiences
Volunteering while living abroad offers countless mental health benefits, including reduced stress, increased self-esteem, and a sense of purpose. By following these tips and actively seeking out opportunities to give back, you’ll not only enrich your life but also make a positive impact on your host community.
Volunteering overseas may involve working in unfamiliar environments or with people from different cultural backgrounds. Embrace these challenges and use them as opportunities to grow personally and professionally.
Do some research, find an organization or project that aligns with your interests and values, and take the first step towards bettering the community and yourself.
**_Have you already experienced the mental health benefits of volunteering abroad? Share your experience with us in the comments below!_**
