We’d like to think of voluntourism as non-enforced CIP (Community Involvement Programme, for those of you who’ve forgotten) for adults. And it is, in a way—voluntourism is essentially holidays that include volunteering for a charitable cause. It’s a great way to soak up different cultures and interact with people from all walks of life, while giving back to the local community.
Interested? Habitat for Humanity (HfH) organizes Global Village build trips to over 70 countries around the world, where you can help to build houses for needy communities in partner countries like Nepal, India, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. Each Global Village build trip typically features a 10 to 12-person team, and lasts between three to seven days. Alternatively, HfH also organizes similar projects closer to home like Kuching Builds and Batam Builds—these cities are located just an hour away from Singapore, so they’re ideal projects for those with less time to spare.
Admittedly, it’s not as simple as pack-and-go: you’re required to form your own team, pay for your own in-country costs like accommodation and meals, as well as fundraise a minimum donation that goes towards the respective country’s building project. It’s a four to six-month commitment, so only sign up if you’re certain that you can see the project through to its final stages. Email [email protected] for more info.
