Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.
-Margaret Mead
It wasn’t too long ago that I was still in school and on a Friday afternoon, I may or may not have been sleeping in class (shhh, don’t tell!). But, you know you did too, if not at least once. What my professors never realized was that, while I may not have been paying attention to their lecture, I was dreaming about and answering some of life’s most intimidating questions… Do I really have to eat ramen again? I wonder if my roommate is going to buy beer? Do I really have to study for that test tonight? … Ok, maybe those aren’t that intimidating. No, but really, we’ve all been here: WHAT AM I GOING TO DO WITH MY LIFE? Seriously. I know “adults” who still don’t know what they are going to do when they “grow-up,” so how, at 23, am I supposed to know now? It’s tough!
While I certainly don’t have life figured out or even know where I will be in the next 6 months I feel like I’m on a path that will lead me in the right direction. I know I want to see the world and I want to give back. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that those who live their life helping and serving others live happy, fulfilled lives. At Whole Planet Foundation I am able to use my skills to help others and I may also have the opportunity to travel and volunteer in Colombia with a microfinance institution in Bogota. That. Would. Be. Awesome. Am I right? Needless to say, I am excited about the future, but for those of you who may be finding yourself in the same boat as me, here are a few of my favorite organizations that you too can volunteer for, both domestic and abroad. And who knows, maybe you’ll find what you are supposed to be doing when you grow up. Just make sure to enjoy all the time in between.
ACCION International is a private, nonprofit organization with the mission of giving people the financial tools they need to work their way out of poverty. By providing “micro” loans, business training and other financial services to poor men and women who start their own businesses, ACCION helps people work their way up the economic ladder, with dignity and pride. Volunteer in the field!
Comfort The Children International (CTC) provides hope through relationships and using a holistic approach to community development, CTC is empowering our world. Volunteer in the U.S and in Kenya.
The Miracle Foundation works to empower orphans to reach their full potential, one child at a time. This is accomplished by providing each child they support with the depth of care all children deserve, including attachment-based, family-style living, nutritious food, excellent healthcare, and high-quality education. Volunteer
Bankers without Borders® is a global volunteer initiative, sponsored by Grameen Foundation, connecting private individuals and companies with microfinance institutions and other organizations serving the poor. Volunteer
World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a world wide network of organisations. They link volunteers with organic farmers, and help people share more sustainable ways of living. In return for volunteer help, WWOOF hosts offer food, accommodation and opportunities to learn about organic lifestyles.
While Whole Planet Foundation doesn’t currently have volunteer opportunities for non Team Members, you can always help support our work around the world by raising a loan to change lives.
Do you have any experience volunteering? Tell me about them below.