Voluntourism is the combination of giving back and being on holiday at the same time. As the self-destructive tide begins to turn the world over, a new generation of tourists now ignore glossy brochures because of the trees cut down to print them and find out from word of mouth or online where they can travel to make a difference to the lives of people they meet.
Shopping holidays are out, helping build a new school in a foreign country is in. This trend has continued for several years and has given rise to opportunists who charge hefty sums to place mostly western volunteers in projects in Africa. In the process, many unselfish potential volunteers are put off altogether. However, for the determined volunteers there are legitimate companies operating that are making a difference and not charging to do so. Throughout Africa projects have been set up and are changing the communities within which they work. Skills taught to local communities include training and assistance in new farming techniques. Sewing, beading, jewellery design, crochet and other crafts are taught to women and communities are educated about the real threat of HIV.
A non profit website has been set up to encourage the free flow of information on projects throughout Africa, what they entail and the cost implications for potential volunteers. Some projects operate where the volunteers only cost is getting there and then they are integrated into the community and tasked with various duties to help the communities within which they live. For more information log onto http://www.volunteer4africa.com/.
Extract from the website:
The number of people that die in Africa from HIV/AIDS each day is the same as if the Twin Towers from the 9/11 tragedy fell twice a day every day. The death toll is the same as if the tsunami that ravaged S. E. Asia crashes onto our shores every month. Africas towers can no longer be allowed to fall in silence. The world must know and those with the will and capability must be given opportunity! Even the smallest gesture can impact the course of someones whole world!
Volunteering for Africa is an exciting concept and the impact on communities of well executed programmes goes above and beyond any impact a new resort or hotel would make if built in the same community. It is our hope that this trend of discerning tourism continues to prosper and long may it last.
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