voluntary work overseas

[mydogsandme]

has anyone ever been on a voluntary placement overseas and what was their experience? My 19 year old daughter is keen to find one working with animals for 2-3 weeks possibly in South Africa and I want to find her the best deal with a reputable company- she's still quite young after all.

[vickyclare]

First of all, congratulations to your daughter for wanting to do something as life changing and rewarding as a voluntary placement.  I took part in one which involved working with children in a community and it was the most amazing experience of my life.  To be honest, I don't think 2-3weeks is enough time, most placements usually run for a minimum of 1 month.  Research all the options as much as possible - Beware of some that do not let you chose your activites.  She may find herself mending fences at a national park for weeks on end if you're not careful!  I would definitely say that the most reputable company I know, and the one that I went with is World Challenge.  www.worldchallenge.co.uk

The Gap Challenge is probably the most suited but I think the minimum is 6 weeks and this may be too long?  The company itself has an amazing reputation, it may seem a bit pricey but this is because of the insurance.  If anything goes wrong she would be helicoptered out at the drop of a hat!  (Trust me, I know 2 people thats happened to!)  So there would be no need to worry on your part!  The in country support is first rate she would be guaranteed to have the time of her life.

Good Luck in whatever you chose!

[mydogsandme]

thank you vicky- I'm going onto the site right now

[katreeen]

I have been looking through gap year type brochures for the past 6 months or so and one thing I have definitely learned is to stay away from World Challenge as they are the most overpriced of the lot. I suggest sites such as http://www.gap-year.com which list organisations that set up placements abroad for a whole range of interests, ranging from about 2 weeks to 12 months

[vickyclare]

World Challenge do seem overpriced, but I promise you its only because they are the best and they offer the most support. For example, a friend of mine was on expedition with them when trouble started in a town they were passing through.  Rebels were shooting at the locals and the leader found the team refuge in a town hall, they set off their distress signal and within 20 minutes the army had sent in a team of army tanks to take them to safety.  They were escorted into the tanks by armed men and taken out of the city. 

Another friend of mine was in Nepal and became very sick.  She had to be helicoptered out of there to hospital and was flown out by an army helicopter.  The whole operation was so expensive she bankrupted the insurance company! 

Anyway I know they are expensive but I know many people who have been with them as well as me and it's definitely worth it.  And you always know that if anything goes wrong, even though you may be miles and miles from civilisation you'll be fine.  Of course if nothing goes wrong you may kick yourself for paying the extra but I know my mum felt a lot better knowing I was in safe hands!! 

[Beth2105]

Both these sites are great, I've booked through the work and travel company.

http://www.worktravelcompany.co.uk/

http://www.volunteer.org.nz/

Good Luck!!