Why Volunteer Abroad

Volunteers comment on why you should volunteer abroad.

If you have an interest in learning about the world, about yourself, and about your place in the global community, this is something you need to do. It's not for everyone, but if you challenge yourself to this adventure, you will reap the rewards for the rest of your life.
Kelly Stimpert, Volunteer in Peru, 2 weeks

I'd recommend to anyone considering volunteering internationally to go while they have the opportunity, and to realize that we are fortunate to be able to volunteer any service we can to people in need. Volunteering was the best way for me to be integrated into the culture and gain the most I could from my experience. Recognized as an individual helping the community allowed me to gain a lot of respect in the village I worked in, which made for an unforgettable experience. Volunteering allowed me to help others in need, but also the locals helped me in a sense. They helped me realize the importance of life and to live every day to the fullest.
Coralie McLean, Volunteer in Ghana, 4 weeks

It is an important experience to go through in order to really understand how we live. It serves as a mirror for us to re-evaluate our lives and a window at the same time which opens up opportunities for us to learn more about others.
Erica Copeland, Volunteer in Peru, 3 weeks

I think that international volunteering can change your life and your perspective on the world in a way no other experience can. If you are open to learning and experiencing new things, you will be changed. You will see the world, other people, and yourself in new ways.
Theresa Hinton, Volunteer in Russia, 4 weeks

International volunteering is an experience with no parallel. It is very hard to explain the thrill you feel when you are standing in a classroom thousands of miles from home, surrounded by different faces and a different language and knowing in some very small way you are changing these children’s lives. It is overwhelming, exhilarating, frightening but above all, fulfilling.
Nadine Powell, Volunteer in Tanzania, 4 weeks

I think it is an amazing experience--I would love to join the Peace Corps someday--but it is what you make it. It is not something to do if you want to go party in another country all the time. I joined for the volunteer work and cultural immersion, and I found that fulfilling. You do need to be strong and recognize it will be emotional, but worth it in the end.
Shae Cali, Volunteer in Peru, 3 weeks

I would tell them that no matter what happens in your life you will never be the same person you were. I would also tell them that of all the things they do in their life nothing will ever compare, no achievement is greater than giving someone a little of your time. Yes it really is that simple. Experiences like this can turn a spoiled man into a humble ball of mush. I know -- I saw it happen.
Carol Morehouse, Volunteer in Brazil, 1 weeks

The experiences I had were incredible. They really helped shape my college experience and influenced the way I see the world. My experiences in Guatemala and Peru were an important part of my Fulbright application and I am sure they played a large part in helping me to receive the grant. I'm really excited to have this new opportunity to foster international understanding.

Rachel Ward LaForgia, Volunteer in Guatemala, 3 weeks & Peru, 3 weeks

International volunteering is one of the most rewarding things anyone can do. Organizations like CCS make the process a lot less daunting for those who may otherwise have been hesitant, and provide a great deal of support. I say go for it, and stay as long as you can...it still wont seem like long enough!
Laura Kuebel, Volunteer in Costa Rica, 2 weeks

Do it!!!!!!!! It's the experience of a lifetime, combining adventure, travel, the reward of volunteering, the joy of learning about another culture, new friendships.
Shirley Ferguson, Volunteer in Russia, 4 weeks

I would say that if you have the means and the opportunity to do it, then you must. It affected me positively in more ways than I could have ever imagined. I'm not saying it's for everyone, but if you have a positive experience, then it opens your perspective on the world and on your own life, and really changes you in a positive way.
Lael Adams,Volunteer in India, 3 weeks

DO IT! Nowadays, tourism has such a cookie-cutter model that it is very easy to miss out on the cultural experience. Going through CCS is the best way to learn about a country.
Faridah Haji, Volunteer in Brazil, 1 weeks

Just do it. We all need to get out of the house more often. Stepping out of your comfort zone is always two things -- scary and worth it. You won't be sorry.
Anne Showalter, Volunteer in Costa Rica, 2 weeks

I recommend it and would almost say it should be a requirement for everyone's life.
John Hamby, Volunteer in Thailand, 7 weeks

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