Not sure where to start looking for a volunteer adventure? Try these organizations:
AMIZADE: This Pittsburgh-based non-profit group was started in 1994 to help save the Amazon rainforest. It now matches up willing volunteers with community-minded groups around the world. Projects range from helping Sherpas in Nepal to working with Aborigines in Australia. For more information, click on Amizade.org.
CROSS-CULTURAL SOLUTIONS: This New Rochelle, N.Y.-based group sends more than 1,000 volunteers a year to work on projects in Asia, Latin America, Africa and Eastern Europe. You might work as a teacher’s assistant in Costa Rica or help street kids in Tanzania. For more information, log on to CrossCulturalSolutions.org.
EARTHWATCH INSTITUTE: This Boston-based group fosters conservation of the Earth’s natural resources and cultural heritage by arranging opportunities for volunteers to participate in scientific expeditions. Offerings range from hleping to save Philippine coral reers to restoring Montana dude ranches. For more information, go to EarthWatch.org.
ROYAL TYRRELL MUSEUM: This Drumheller, Alta., museum offers interested volunteers a chance to participate in dinosaur digs. For more info, click on TyrrellMuseum.com.
VOLUNTEERS FOR PEACE: This Vermont-based non-profit organization offers more than 2,200 short-term volunteer opportunities around the world. Contact VFP.org.
