Volunteering in Asia forum

New forum: Volunteering in Asia

somtam2000

admin
mahout
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A growing number of people are curious about volunteering in Southeast Asia. Curious about what is involved, what it costs and who are reputable organisations to volunteer with. So, here's a new section of the forum to discuss these matters.

A couple of pointers:
a) If you're undecided on the pay vs no pay debate, you should read this discussion.

b) This is a forum for travellers to discuss the options -- not for volunteer organisations to spin their spiel. Solicitations and advertorial posts will be deleted -- and that means you Danang Kids!

c) Lastly, if you're looking for a good backgrounder on volunteering, look no further than Kirsty Henderson's excellent The Underground Guide to International Volunteering. It is an excellent read and an indispensible source for someone who wants a guide to volunteering overseas (it has a global focus). Worth every penny.

#1 Posted: 25/10/2010 - 08:29

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urbantango

newbie
Posts: 4

There is a good post about why some organizations charge volunteers a participation fee on the Latin Lounge. http://www.volunteerlatinamericablog.com/reasons-why-some-organizations-charge-participation-fees

I think we should consider the facts before condemning all fee-based volunteer programs

#2 Posted: 7/11/2010 - 18:15
pamwarner

newbie
Posts: 1

If you want to volunteer in Cambodia, there is an orphanage called New Futures located in Takeo that loves to have some extra help for their 50+ kids. They charge you $5. US per night for your room, no other fees. You can contact them thru their internet site to arrange a stay.

#3 Posted: 27/12/2010 - 04:22
pinkyetbrain

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Hi,

I am just volunteering for a little school in Ranong that cares for kids with disabilities. I found it through Andaman Discovery. The school only needs long term and skilled volunteers, but if you are interested, AD only takes a little fee.
Also I found a very nice place in the mountains between Ranong Province and Chumpon Province! Its called Child Development Foundation. The spot in the Jungle couldnt be much more beautiful! It is a dutch run place and you can see how much care and love goes into it. They have places for skilled and unskilled volunteers, short and long term. No fees and free dorm accomodation. I think you can find out more at www.thaichilddevelopment.org
I think its a great place to volunteer and I know how hard it is to find something decent without all the fees attatched, that is why I want to help others in their search!
Greetings,
pinky

#4 Posted: 1/6/2011 - 19:05
sapaochau

longtail driver
Posts: 5

Posted from within Vietnam.

I don't want to SPAM you, but if you do want to volunteer and you feel you have skills to offer then there are many, many organisations that want and need your help. I have never paid to volunteer - but some people seem to find it reassuring to do so.

I now help to run a grass roots project in Sapa, Vietnam.

There are so many great options, but most tourists sadly don't know about them and there is little local activity helping people to find them. Does anyone know of a volunteer project database?

If you are interested in ours just google : Sapa O'Chau

Thank you!

#5 Posted: 9/3/2012 - 01:12
becky3343

newbie
Posts: 1

Hey all,

I'm currently travelling in SE Asia, and have looked at loads of websites for volunteering- I'm one for the no cost/low cost type of volunteering. I'm planning on being here for a while, and want to volunteer in a few different places. So far, I have volunteered in a small NGO in Thailand- the Baan Unrak Thai Animal Sanctuary and found this a really worthwhile project to work on- especially if you love animals! Its free, does amazing work and really in need of volunteers.

For finding out about volunteering projects I've found volunteerworkthailand.org a really good database for Thailand and just a simple google search with the type of volunteering you're interested in, the country and "free" always turns up at least one good-looking project. I always try to find independent reviews on forums and blogs about places to get a feel for what they're like before I get in contact too!

Hope that helps and happy volunteering!

#6 Posted: 26/3/2012 - 23:59
Jenn80

backpacker
Posts: 11
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Hi I'm an aussie currently in Patong but looking to volunteer with children anywhere in sth east Asia. I have been a youth worker (unqualified) for 5 years working in schools in prisons and on the streets in western Australia, Is this enough to teach English or help with kids? Or do I need to get my TEFL cert? Also if anyone has any advice or personal experience with great placements I'd love to hear from you.

#7 Posted: 18/4/2012 - 00:45

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