The definition and terms of a volunteer vary from one organization to another. They may include any combination of the following:
If most organizations, you will have to pay for the opportunity to work with the organization and have to pay to have our application processed. These organizations typically use the money they request to cover the administrative costs associated with processing your application, paying for local workers and as a donation to the organization and its services.
Before you begin communication with the organization that interests you, take a moment to clarify your own expectations and your definition of being a volunteer. What do you expect in terms of remuneration, an orientation program, or training? Do you have any requirements? For example, maybe you can only afford to volunteer for organizations that can pay for your airfare (although such organizations are few and far between). Listing such requirements or expectations will help you sift through the list of possible organizations.
