In the current economic environment, many families are reluctant to travel just for indulgence & instead are looking for opportunities to add value to their family vacation by serving those in need. Voluntourism is a new kind of vacation that combines touring with volunteering. As our world becomes smaller, it's becoming more & more important to learn about other countries' customs & cultures. Parents are encouraging their children to not only volunteer in their local communities, but also to become more culturally & socially involved in their world.
Often, volunters get as much, if not more, out of the programs as those they are there to help. Volunteer vacations reap greater benefits than the typical vacation because they can be transformative for the family, allowing parents to pass on key values to their children such as global citizenship, compassion, tolerance & gratitude. They have the benefit of visiting another country, being immersed in its culture, while breaking down stereotypes.
Fellowship Travel International (FTI) is a full-service travel agency that offers volunteer programs around the globe. These programs are unique because they can be customized to the skills, goals & budget of the participants. Projects can focus on orphan care, feeding programs, social work, construction, the arts, sports, medical assistance & more. All programs include airfare, accommodations & meals, so they are easy for families to plan. Incorporating FTI's volunteer programs (of any length) can even reduce the overall cost of your trip by giving you access to discounted humanitarian airfares.
Volunteers can choose from FTI programs in countries throughout Central America as well as Brazil, Israel, India, Cambodia, Vietnam, Romania & countries in eastern & southern Africa. (Columbia & Thailand will be coming soon.)
Our newest, family-friendly program in Cape Town, South Africa is sure to please all age groups. Cape Town is a beautiful city that offers acres of white sand beaches, miles of walking trails and tons of places to visit. Families will stay in guest house accommodations in the southern peninsula of Cape Town. This is about a 30-minute drive away from the city centre. There will be opportunities to volunteer, including helping in underprivileged schools and community upliftment programs. The family will also enjoy side excursions to:
- Visit Robben island
- See penguins at Boulders Beach
- Go on a big 5 safari
- Go to Cape Point
- View the city from the top of Table Mountain
Click here for more information about the various types of volunteer programs we offer, and get your family involved today!