Idealist.org Global Volunteering Fair Coming February 4th

So what is global volunteering anyway? If you’re a fan of straight-up definitions, it’s simply volunteering in any country other than your own. Or, if you respond more to examples and narratives, it’s traveling across borders to build homes, teach in schools, deliver medical supplies, count endangered species—you get the idea. Broadly speaking, it’s volunteering your time, skills, and energy with any one of thousands of global organizations, issues, or causes, all to help make a difference in communities around the world.

At an Idealist Global Volunteering Fair, you can learn more about global service opportunities offered by several different kinds of volunteer-sending organizations. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in workshops (details on those below) on topics like international volunteerism 101 and affordable options for volunteering abroad.

Attendance is FREE but you must register HERE. The fair will be held at the Washington, D.C. Google.com office at 1101 New York Avenue NW, Second Floor on February 4th. Workshop times and the fair details are listed below.

You should also consider signing up to receive a daily Email Alert of all the volunteer opportunities, internships, jobs, and other information posted by the organizations on Idealist that match your interests and location. To get started, click HERE.

Workshops
02/04/2010 06:15pm - 07:00pm International Volunteerism 101
*Presented by a panel of representatives from volunteer-sending organizations*,
Who can I volunteer with? What kinds of projects are available? How do I choose the right opportunity for me? These topics and more will be discussed by a panel of representatives from volunteer-sending organizations with opportunities around the globe.

Workshops
02/04/2010 07:15pm - 08:00pm Google Tools for Volunteers
*Presented by Galen Panger, Associate, Global Communications and Public Affairs, Google*
Come learn about tips and tools for organizing your international service trip, building communities and sharing your experiences with the world.

Workshops
02/04/2010 08:15pm - 09:00pm Affordable Volunteering Abroad
*Presented by Zahara Heckscher, Co-Author of “How to Live Your Dream of Volunteering Overseas”*
Between airfare, living expenses, and potential program fees, the cost of doing good abroad can really add up. Fortunately, there are lots of great options to fit what you can afford. This workshop will cover tips and ideas for budgeting, raising funds, and finding the right international volunteer opportunity for you – whether it’s with a global service organization that provides you with transportation and a stipend, paying for an all-inclusive volunteer abroad program, or going abroad on your own.