VOLUNTEER WORK WHILE VACATIONING

If you are an adventurous person, I bet you’re constantly thinking about your next destination, even when you have just returned from a trip.  Maybe your dream trip consists on more than just having your picture taken in front of iconic places… maybe you feel the need to make a contribution, to make a difference… you have probably gone through all the possibilities in your head, the option of traveling the world as a missioner may not sound too realistic, and just sending a donation to a charity doesn’t seem good enough…

When I decided to quit my job at a corporation and work as a freelancer, I started traveling a lot.  All my friends know that traveling and photography are my passion. As time passed by, I asked myself if there was something else besides this career. The question of what my purpose in life was haunted me every night.  Have you ever asked so desperately to God, the Universe, or whatever entity you believe in, to please send you a sign?

Well, my sign, or should I say, a very straightforward message, came to me, three years ago.  I ended up at an orphanage in Mexico for work, during a reality TV show shoot.  As soon as I walked in the house, a little girl raised her tiny arms toward me so I could pick her up. My heart melted and I knew right away what I had to do; it was like an epiphany.  I learned to appreciate every single thing I had. I also learned that the gift of love, and even something that seems so small, like a hug or a smile, can make such a difference in someone’s life. 

So, here is a piece of advice for you, if you have the chance to travel on your next vacation to a less fortunate country, consider a program like workaway (workaway.com).  Here, you can choose from a variety of volunteer work activities, such as working with children, helping the environment, taking care of animals, etc.  But the most important thing is to follow your ideals. If you can’t dedicate your entire vacation to a cause, how about if you just dedicate some hours to something you believe in? When my friend and I were in Brazil on vacation, we visited an orphanage in Rio. We took some groceries for the house, but the most amazing thing was to spend some time with the kids.  Just do your research prior to your trip to see which places you can visit. Believe me, just a few hours of your time will make a difference.

Traveling is so wonderful! Now just imagine  if you added such a rewarding experience to your travel memories.

I will visit the kids in Mexico for Christmas. I’ve been told I’ve been a blessing to them, but in all honesty, I believe they have been a blessing to me. They have changed my life completely…