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Get Involved > Volunteer Abroad Houston
Volunteer Abroad Program
Join Books for Development's Volunteer Abroad Program to make a meaningful impact while immersing yourself in diverse cultures and communities worldwide.
Participate in promoting education and literacy through library setup initiatives. Connect with local communities, forge lasting friendships, and witness the transformative power of books.
Stay informed about upcoming volunteer opportunities and destinations by signing up for our volunteer abroad updates. We also welcome any recommendations on places to support.
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Volunteer Abroad FAQs
What should I expect when attending a volunteer abroad trip?
When attending a volunteer abroad trip, you can expect a transformative experience that many describe as the "trip of a lifetime."
Upon arrival and some rest, we generally begin the process of shelving books which involves going through pre-sorted boxes, conducting a final sort for appropriateness, and organizing the books on shelves. This "curation" process may involve sub-categories and labeling shelves. Decorative elements like posters and maps are also added. One of the most important things that our volunteers can do is to assist the new librarians in understanding how to operate a library. An unforgettable highlight is the opening ceremony, attended by villagers, tribal elders, political leaders, and the local community, marking an important milestone in community development.
Depending on the trip, several libraries may be established or sometimes it will be just a single larger library. Each project is unique.
Are volunteers required to cover their own expenses?
Yes, volunteers are responsible for covering their own expenses. Rest assured, our volunteer trips are designed to be cost-effective and economical. Many volunteers are also able to take a tax deduction for the expense as a charitable deduction.
How long is the typical duration of a volunteer trip?
The typical duration of a volunteer trip is 10-14 days, including travel time.
Do you have any upcoming volunteer abroad trips planned?
While we don't have specific dates to announce, we anticipate upcoming volunteer trips to Uganda, Belize, and a few other places. If you have any suggestions on places to go or are interested in an volunteer abroad opportunity in the future, please contact us today!
Are there any qualifications / pre-requisites?
There are certain qualifications, including being reasonably healthy, a willingness to work hard, familiarizing yourself with our procedures pre-trip, and a willingness to work under sometimes challenging conditions without complaining.
