How to make a real difference

Orphanages are detrimental to a child’s health and development. Children continue to be separated from their families and some are trafficked into orphanages to fulfil the voluntourism demand. Promote campaigns that prevent families from being separated and reunite children with their families.

 Voluntourism projects require you to pay to volunteer. Some voluntourists report companies’ lack of accountability on how they spend this money. Consider if that money is best spent on you volunteering and where the money goes. There are alternative ways to make a lasting difference by donating that money to fund sustainable projects and support local economies. 

Good intentions are not enough. Working on international projects requires some level of skill, knowledge, background checks, and qualifications, especially to work with children. Do not let this stop you from doing good deeds. Instead, consider how ethical it is to work on projects that would normally have a job specification in your home country. 

Research shows that voluntourists have altruistic intentions to volunteer internationally. However, companies tend to market this experience around you being needed in these communities leading you to fundraise for an experience that only benefits you.

Why not stay volunteer locally? Consider researching the local projects around your area that could use your support. You should not be paying excessive fees to volunteer.

 Travelling is great and ethical tourism can really contribute to the sustainable development goals. Make sure to support the local businesses on your way to help build their community.