Anyone volunteered or works/worked for an aid organisation overseas?

Question

I am still studying at uni (majoring in community development, anthropology), but eventually would like to get some experience in working in development for an ngo / aid organisation. Can having family be a limitation when finding overseas work? Has anyone worked/volunteered overseas in a third world country and brought their kids with them? I would appreciate feedback from anyone who has worked as an aid worker.

Answer 1

Having a family can be a limitation because then you'll have to look for a group that would be willing to shoulder the cost of relocating your family, your house, your kids' education... These should be included in the compensation package. Some organisations do offer such a package for international posts (usually for higher or more senior positions).

Answer 2

I have been a volunteer with several organizations and been paid for most of my career to work on international development.

Peace Corps is a good start for Americans with limited international experience. There are other organizations as well. NGOs tend to want to hire people who have experience. They can't afford to send someone out with no international experience and have them "botch" it. Believe me, I have seen international class experts with no development experience create real problems!!!!

Kids are a problem for Peace Corps. They are a fact of live for NGOs, State Department, etc., and as long as you have experience, it should not be a problem, except for some special postings - like Iraq, Afghanistan, etc.

Answer 3

Worked overseas for a NGO for 30 years and raised our family with two children the entire time happily and together. Our son was born in Egypt and our daugther in Colombia