Obtain your parents' permission. You won't be able to volunteer abroad (or get a passport) without it. If your parents need convincing, prepare an argument for why volunteering abroad is a worthwhile cause. Some reasons include bolstering college applications, learning another language and helping others.
Apply for a passport if you don't already have one. This is a time-consuming process and can takes months to complete, so it's best to get it out of the way early. For minors under 16, certain restrictions apply, including the presence of a parent or guardian during the application process and documentation that confirms their relationship.
Research volunteer programs. There are numerous options available, some of which cater specifically to teenagers. Opportunities range from building water treatment facilities in Kenya to working with schoolchildren in Belize. Start with a specific focus (such as education) or a specific region (such as South America) in mind, and then research programs that serve those areas. Good places to start searching include Transitions Abroad (Transitionsabroad.com) and Go Abroad (VolunteerAbroad.com).
Apply for your chosen program well ahead of time. Some programs fill up quickly, and others might have lengthy application processes. Give yourself at least six months before you want to leave to find and apply for the right program.
Raise funds, if necessary. Unless your parents are willing to pay for your travel expenses, you will need to raise money for airfare and program fees, which can vary widely from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Write letters to family members and friends, hold a bake sale, organize a carwash with friends, and ask to share your cause with community organizations and teachers.
Visit the doctor. Make sure you are up to date on shots, have extra supplies of medication if needed, and check to make sure you have health insurance that will cover you overseas.
Go! Have fun, take a camera and document your experience of a lifetime. Send postcards or letters to any family members or friends that donated to your trip.
