Volunteer Vacations - Give, Enjoy, and Rejuvenate All At Once
When the term "vacation" comes to mind, the immediate, gentle relaxing of my shoulders and a deeeeeep breeeeaaaath ouuuuut is a typical reaction.
We all need times of retreat to rejuvenate and gain perspective outside of the day-to-day rush. Vacations, however, don't have to be expensive excursions or complete disconnections from society. Sometimes the most restful and rewarding vacation you can take is a volunteer vacation.
Volunteer vacations come in MANY shapes and sizes. Some are solely focused on the volunteer activity of choice while others are include just a day of giving back in between your beach lounging or sightseeing. My first volunteer vacation was in college. I joined several other college students on a trip to Madrid, Spain where we helped support a local non-profit organization looking to grow their connections with college students on nearby campuses. Not only did I walk away with the amazing memories and experiences of visiting a new place, I was refreshed at a deeper level knowing that I gave of my time and talents in a way that was helpful and carried a lasting impact.
Here are just a few volunteer vacation resources:
These are only a few examples of ways you can take your well-earned time off and give to others while treating yourself to the lasting benefits that come from selfless giving.
Have you participated in a volunteer vacation? What other organizations support this type of travel? Please share below!

Disclaimer: I have not personally used nor do I hold any accountability for the use of the organizations listed above. Google
We all need times of retreat to rejuvenate and gain perspective outside of the day-to-day rush. Vacations, however, don't have to be expensive excursions or complete disconnections from society. Sometimes the most restful and rewarding vacation you can take is a volunteer vacation.
Volunteer vacations come in MANY shapes and sizes. Some are solely focused on the volunteer activity of choice while others are include just a day of giving back in between your beach lounging or sightseeing. My first volunteer vacation was in college. I joined several other college students on a trip to Madrid, Spain where we helped support a local non-profit organization looking to grow their connections with college students on nearby campuses. Not only did I walk away with the amazing memories and experiences of visiting a new place, I was refreshed at a deeper level knowing that I gave of my time and talents in a way that was helpful and carried a lasting impact.
Here are just a few volunteer vacation resources:
- www.GlobalVolunteers.org - This company was one of the first of its kind and offers both USA and international opportunities. While you pay for your stay, they provide a great deal of support in making sure your vacation meets your goals and the needs of the causes you serve.
- www.WWOOF.org- World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms offers volunteers free stays with host families/farms in exchange for learning about their farming practices and intimately interacting with the culture of the country you choose.
- www.GlobalGiving.com - Search for projects by area and either choose to donate money to a cause near your vacation spot, or call the project(s) to see if they need volunteers during your stay.
- Check with your local faith/religious community to find potential mission trips that match your volunteer interests.
These are only a few examples of ways you can take your well-earned time off and give to others while treating yourself to the lasting benefits that come from selfless giving.
Have you participated in a volunteer vacation? What other organizations support this type of travel? Please share below!
Disclaimer: I have not personally used nor do I hold any accountability for the use of the organizations listed above. Google