Volunteering Vacations

Habitat for Humanity: The Pen Family

Looking for a new idea for a family vacation this spring break? Consider taking a "volunteer vacation," a trip where you don't just see the world, but try to make it a better place. Recently, volunteer vacations have been growing in popularity and now many groups have gotten into the act. One of the most popular trips is Habitat for Humanity's Global Village program, which sends vacationers to foreign countries on short-term home-building projects. Other volunteer trips, many of which are perfect for families, could find you assisting researchers in analyzing animal behavior, doing archaeological excavation, or teaching English in remote parts of the world. Volunteer vacations, some of which have minimum age requirements, range in price depending on the program and destination you choose. For more information, visit the Volunteer America clearinghouse.

--Francesca Di Meglio

Originally published in Ladies' Home Journal magazine, April 2004.