Volunteering in Ghana Africa. any one know where i can volunteer ny time overseas and not be charged for it?

Question

i am an unemployed machinist in between jobs.and would like to do something different for a change.i would like to volunteer for any kind of general labor or even a cnc mill machinist position in ghana africa or southeast asia.but i cant afford to pay to go there.im single 46 y/o male,healthy and willing to work hard.just need three hots and a cot,and maybe just a little spending money for entertainment.or at least a side job to earn some $$ does anyone know of an orginization that will take me on? please leve your messege.and or feel free to pm me or e-mail me.it's [e-mail] thanks all. and i apologise for spelling errors.....i was educated in ny state....lol

Answer 1

While the thought behind your plan is certainly commendable, what you want to do is unfortunately not very practical.

If you search on "volunteer overseas" or "volunteer abroad" on Yahoo Answers, you will see that this question is asked repeatedly and will find a weath of resources for volunteer organizations - especially noteworthy are the replies posted by Jayne Says Read More Books.

Answer 2

Do you realize that the majority of people living in Africa do not get 3 meals a day, much less hot meals.  As for a cot, use might have a share it with a couple other people.  And asking for spending money?  You would be labeled "rich" for the things on your "needs" list.

You might want to re-think your priorities.  When you volunteer, you don't get paid---that's a job.  You  need to have a heart for what you're doing when you're volunteering in another country.  You don't want to come across like you're doing the people/poor a favor by helping them--they'll see right through you.  Whether you like it or not, you're representing the US, they will form opinions about all Americans by your actions and attitude.  I hope you're a good rep for the Good Old USA.

Answer 3

Countries like Ghana don't have enough money to pay their own people to do the work, let alone pay us to go over there and take the jobs. So, you won't get a volunteer placement like what you're describing. I would apply to VSO or Peace Corps if you want to get a bit of money - but the process is long and competitive, and you have to guarantee a 2-year commitment.

I'd also recommend looking at Global Volunteer Network. They do charge, but are easily the best prices out there and they have some neat projects.