Find Volunteer Opportunities

• 1). There are many volunteer options to choose from. You will want to find one that fits your family's needs. Some areas of the world need help with demolition and building. Places like Haiti can use hands-on construction work. Other areas could use help teaching due to a shortage of teaching professionals. Because you will most likely be spending your family vacation volunteering you will want to go somewhere you can relax and enjoy the environment when you aren't volunteering.
  
  
• 2). Check with your health-care provider to determine which vaccinations you will need to keep you safe. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information on the vaccinations you will need for each destination. Some people, especially those with diabetes, HIV, or pregnant women, may be required to get a special round of shots that help with their specific condition. Children may also require additional shots. In some cases your health-care provider may give you an antibiotic to take with you in case you get sick.
  
  
• 3). When traveling overseas, it's important to make the proper preparations. First, get passports well in advance of your travel date. Since new laws require passports for all international travel, it takes longer to obtain one. Planning ahead can alleviate any problems that would hinder your travel. Not only do all kids, regardless of whether they are infants or newborns, need a passport, they must all be present during the application process.
  
  
• 4). If your child will be missing school, determine what assignments will need to be completed. Also ask your child's teacher if some of their international volunteer experience will count towards school work. Some schools award credit for hands on experience.
  
  
• 5). Discuss your trip with your children. Get as much information about the program and the volunteer experience so you can calm any fears they may have. Take them to all orientations and pre-planning meetings. Plan time each day to talk with your children about what they've experienced and how they feel about it. Take pictures and get children to keep a journal of their experiences.