Make a list of at least 10 areas in the world that you would like to travel to and 10 causes that you feel passionate about. If you don't want to travel to a location or you don't feel passionate about a cause, it will color your travel and volunteer experience poorly.
Use this list while researching the many potential volunteer opportunities. One example of a program is Geekcorps, which places IT experts in foreign countries for one to six months with all expenses paid. Another example is the Financial Services Volunteer Corps, which puts finance and business professionals in developing countries in a guidance role.
Write down at least three programs that you are interested in applying to. Visit their websites and research as much as you can about each program. If you decide that one of the programs is not for you, cross it off your list and find another program to fill your list back out to three.
Follow each program's procedure of application, which may be as simple as an inquiring email or as complicated as a typical job application. Applying to three programs at once gives you a better chance of getting accepted to at least one.
Respond to any acceptance materials that you receive, and if you receive multiple acceptances, narrow your choice down to one or ask whether you can defer one program until later. Clear out your schedule for the needed time by taking off from work and subletting your apartment or condo. Take care of any necessary financial obligations. Enjoy your free travel and volunteering experience.
