Westworld Alberta
Issue link: http://westworldmagazine.ama.ab.ca/i/68789
tips for voluntouring "Decide what your interests are and where and when you want to travel, then search for a volunteer opportunity that meets your needs," says Rob Levine, director for Projects Abroad Canada. Before choosing an organization, ask yourself: are you able-bodied enough to do physical labour and work outdoors? Are you comfortable with shared or spartan accommodation — or boarding with a local family? Will you be volunteering alone or as part of a family or group? Do you have any spe- cialty skills, such as nursing, architec- ture, early childhood education, mapping, teaching or animal care that you might be able to contribute? Is there a particular skill you might like to acquire in exchange for contributing your time and energy? The answers will help narrow your search. Next, research any prospective organization's background. Ideally, the organization will have been in existence for a minimum of fi ve years and have support staff on the ground to problem-solve and help volunteers integrate with host organizations and locals. Before you commit, ask what's included for food, lodging and transportation. Be sure you know the full cost of participation, including program fees and any extra costs or required equipment. If possible, contact a past volunteer for an opinion on the experience. And when you arrive, be outgoing and engaging with locals, advises Levine: "Those are always the people who have the most positive experiences." AMA MEMBERS SAVE MORE Before you go: Spend fi ve days in Central America volunteering with ASVO Costa Rica, a sea turtle project working to ensure that these creatures are around for future gener- ations to admire. From $1,049 per person, land only. 1-866-667-4777; AMATravel.ca While you're there: Don't forget your CAA MasterCard when you travel. Accepted worldwide, MasterCard is a safe and reliable way to pay. AMARewards.ca/MasterCard WESTWORLD >> JUNE 2012 45