subject: Volunteer abroad and gap year abroad fundraising advice and tips [print this page] Volunteer abroad and gap year abroad fundraising advice and tips
Volunteering abroad is an amazing learning experience and journey that will change your life. But volunteering with major volunteer organizations like The Maralink Eco-Volunteers is relatively cheap but Volunteers abroad need accommodations, food, travel insurance in addition to in-country transportation and orientations to ensure their safety. Since volunteers live with host families, we need to provide funds to our host communities in Kenya. All this adds up to the program fee.
When you raise funds you will be able to enjoy your holiday longer, be flexible and have more fun. There are very many ideas and things you would do in order to raise money. Here are some of the effective ways to get money for your volunteer trip, gap year abroad or internship.
Have a plan
Volunteers should sit down and budget first and Calculate funds exactly needed , i.e. the cost of your travel including air fare, weekly expenditure, insurance and your volunteer holiday. Secondly having a plan of action which will help you come up with the money. This includes what you will do to raise the money e.g. organizing a party. Involve your friends and family in planning.
Host an Event Another great fundraising idea is to hold a fundraising event. Here are some event ideas:
Free service in exchange for a donation: Babysit, wash cars, take care of a pet, host a bake sale or volunteer to do yard work. Basketball, softball, baseball or other sports tournament: Ask your town to provide the field or gym facilities for this event. Have local businesses donate prizes for winners and invite your community to come cheer the participants on! Battle of the Bands. Ask local businesses to provide a venue for this. Bands and venue owners alike will enjoy the exposure and the community can enjoy a fun night.Dinner: Host a spaghetti dinner at a community center or school gym. Ask friends to help you prepare the dinner. Charge a fee for the dinner provided. Invite everyone you know!
Apply for Student Scholarships/Grants
Contact your school's financial aid department. There may be funds available for you to tap into.
Get a part time job
Plan early, when you want to volunteer
Editor's Note: find more volunteering Kenya and gap year in kenya advice at http://www.themaralink.com
