Volunteer & Travel with Us
Our next amazing trip is finally planned! Join us for part or all of it. Dec 16, '11 - Jan 12, '12. Click here for the detailed itinerary.
Volunteer and See the World
Of course, if you donate money to Crisis Recovery, you offer the means of survival, dignity and self-sufficiency to families in serious need. But, the gift of your time and talent is equally vital to our mission. Why not plan to spend your next vacation time helping others?
When you volunteer to work abroad in some of the most challenging situations, the feeling is extraordinary. You will be enriched even far beyond what you give. Yes, you will bring hope and comfort to those who may have lost everything. You will provide humanitarian aid and, in some cases, disaster relief to those in need. Our volunteers live and work with local people on life-affirming projects. They come home citing life-changing experiences that only come with immersion in other cultures.
Vacation with a purpose. This is the kind of travel that feeds the heart, the mind and the soul. There are opportunities in community projects throughout the world. You will live and contribute with other international volunteers from around the globe. The needs and projects vary greatly but here are a few of the recipients of our work:
- Orphanages
- Schools
- Construction projects
- Health and disability care
- Mental health care
- Child care centers
- Homes for the elderly
- You must be at least 18 years old
- Be in good health
- Have health insurance
- Hold a valid passport and visa
- Acquire necessary immunizations
- Purchase your own airline ticket
- Have at least one week to volunteer
- Full orientation for the trip
- Orientation in the foreign community
- Transportation to and from the airport
- Your accommodations
- Your breakfast and dinner each day (People usually wish to lunch on their own)
- Evenings are at leisure so you may explore on your own
Volunteer with us! You will take home memories and friendships you can only reap from international travel, experiencing divergent cultures and helping others far less fortunate in our global community.
Considering volunteering while having a trip of a lifetime? Here are some possible questions and answers to them that may help you in your decision to spend a week with us.
How do I know if I need a visa for the country?
Get the latest information on each country you want to visit by going to www.Travel.State.gov. On this website you will find travel warnings, visa information, the history of the region, the political environment, and almost everything you will need to know before you leave.
Should I change money to bring with me?
CRI always advises travelers to bring some cash of the country you are going to visit. You will need it for taxis, tips, and food when you first arrive. After you get familiar with the area, you can get more cash from the local bank. You can go to http://www.xe.com to find out what the exchange rate is and estimate the amount of money you will need to change.
How much should I pack?
CRI strongly encourages you to pack light. You can travel with one backpack and one carry-on suitcase and have plenty of clothes. See my packing list on this website.
What are the accommodations?
We stay in local homes and hotels. The accommodations are safe and comfortable. Often you will share space with another volunteer. Our CRI coordinator will always be staying at the same lodging.
How do I get my airline ticket?
Of course, a travel agent can help you make the arrangements. Often airline consolidators have the lowest prices. We can guide you.
What if I arrive at the airport sooner than the pick up date?
Often volunteers want to do some sightseeing before they start working and travel a few days early. If that is your wish, simply reconnect with us at the airport on the originally planned day and time. Just let us know of your plans.
How will the meals work?
Even though we may be in an impoverished part of the world, we make certain to have plenty to eat. The food will be prepared locally giving you an opportunity to enjoy exotic dishes that may be new to you.
Is it safe where we will travel?
Our staff personally checks out the locations where we will work. Our CRI coordinator will be with you all week. You are always welcome to check the political climate of a country by visiting www.cnn.com. However, we are not a politically poised organization and our work with the people is always welcomed.
Do I need vaccinations?
Visit www.cdc.gov to learn what inoculations you may need for the area of the world you plan to work in. We highly recommend vaccinations if indicated by the CDC. Also remember to bring adequate medications you may be taking on a regular basis.
What are my financial responsibilities?
Fees you pay cover your meals and accommodations. Fees include transportation to and from the airport and to jobsite. A portion may also be paid to the local community project expenses we'll be involved with. Your fee may be tax deductible . Check with your tax advisor on limits of charitable giving.
What if I want to stay longer than one week or leave earlier?
With the exception of Sri Lanka, volunteers may join us at any time and stay with us for as long (or short) as they like. For additional information on the specific areas that our volunteers might want to visit, travel.state.gov and or Lonely Planet Connection. You are welcome to extend your trip by making personal arrangements. However, the CRI coordinator will be leaving for another location at the end of the originally planned week. If you wish to leave earlier, simply let us know and make your own arrangements. You may leave whenever you wish, of course.
What if I get sick or hurt?
Be sure to have health insurance and carry your card with you. Your CRI coordinator will get you medical help as needed but payment for service is your responsibility. You may wish to purchase international health insurance. Visit www.independenttraveler.com for more information on this.
If I come with friends is the fee less?
This work and travel is enhanced by bringing friends. The fees are the same as this is a humanitarian relief organization and we are not able to discount the travel and the experiences.
What exactly will I be doing on the trip?
We will make every effort to match your skills and interests with the local needs. Work at each location is so different and depends upon the needs of the local people but may include rebuilding, planting, teaching, and so much more.
Any ideas on how I can raise money to be able to participate in this program?
There are many ways to earn money to go to international locations. Savings from your job and donations from family and friends, of course. There are even some religious organizations that have special programs. Visit www.grassrootsfundraising.org for more ideas. The trip and the experiences you'll have are priceless. The help you give to others in severe need is invaluable.
I know I can't go with you but I want to help the CRI program. What can I do?
Your donation of any size helps so much. Please click on the Donate page on this site and give what you can to our non-profit humanitarian efforts. We are so grateful.