Last year saw some of the most severe natural disasters on record and the demand for international disaster relief volunteers has never been greater. For many volunteers, their motivation to serve stems from a desire to help create positive change for others. But what if you could achieve this while creating positive change for yourself too?
Disaster relief volunteer work is difficult, but both necessary and fulfilling.
From opportunities to grow as a person and get to know yourself, create meaningful connections and learn new skills, disaster relief volunteer work can positively impact your life as well as those in the communities you are supporting.
If you’ve been considering stepping forward to help in the wake of a natural disaster, here’s our insider knowledge on how to become a disaster relief worker.
How to volunteer for natural disasters
1. Assess your capacity to help
Ask yourself, “What time can I commit?,” “Which countries can I travel to?” and “What type of assistance could I offer?”
Flexibility is key during disaster relief volunteer work and it’s important to consider how organizations are responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Before being impacted by the challenges presented by COVID-19, many disaster relief organizations strived to empower anyone with the compassion to help to do so when disasters strike, regardless of their experience level, age, or availability.
Now, some have adapted their approach; for example, All Hands and Hearts launched DM12, a volunteer initiative that enables them to meet the needs of the communities they serve in line with CDC guidance. (Those programs are structured to welcome one cohort of 20-40 volunteers aged 18-65 with no pre-existing health concerns; they remain on program for 8-12 weeks to reduce potential exposure points to COVID-19.)
Depending on your age, health status, residential location, and travel restrictions in place in the country you want to volunteer in at the time you are available, there may be some organizations you would be unable to volunteer with due to the adaptations they’ve made to mitigate the risks presented by COVID-19. Be sure to do your research!
2. Find an organization to support
Choosing the right organization for you is crucial to your experience.
There are dozens of disaster relief volunteer opportunities at NGOs that are seeking support on varied global recovery programs, from rebuilding damaged homes, schools, and infrastructure, to assisting with medical care and education.
You can gain a sense of how an organization’s mission and vision are aligned with your values by browsing their website, and it’s important to consider how well regarded they are within their industry. It can be a good idea to read program reviews or reach out to program alum when possible.
Another important consideration is how an organization supports local communities and works with partners. Ethical humanitarianism requires working in a collaborative, sustainable way that empowers communities to build resilience.
As you navigate how to volunteer for natural disasters during the pandemic, it’s vital you understand the steps an organization will take to reduce the risk of placing a burden on local resources and prioritize the safety of its volunteers and staff.
3. Do some research
Once you have found an organization offering the type of disaster relief volunteer work you’re seeking, make sure it’s right for you. This should be taken as seriously as finding the right job. The main objective here is to understand what’s being asked of you.
For example, some organizations provide incoming volunteers with access to a resource hub which lays out practical information, such as what to pack, directions to program placements, and what a standard work day involves. If that sounds like something you would want, be sure to ask if your chosen organization offers it!
Don’t book a program without knowing exactly what you’re getting.
Organizations should also be clear about what support, resources, and opportunities for learning new skills will be available to help you get the most out of your volunteering experience, detailing program benefits and expectations.
Also look into whether or not your chosen organization clearly recognizes that disaster environments can be tough on one’s mental health and that communal living can be tiring and stressful. Look for in-person support from the local staff on a program, and whether volunteers have access to a 24-hour counselling helpline service for in-the-moment emotional support.
4. If you’re on board, give it your best
Volunteering in a disaster zone may push you to the limits of your comfort zone, but it will be a unique experience which should encourage personal growth and introduce you to other people who want to enact positive change. So make the most of it!
If you’re volunteering to experience disaster relief work before seeking a full time job, seize every opportunity to network with fellow volunteers and staff members.
5. Reflect on your experience
After completing your disaster relief volunteer work, be sure to take time to look back at what you learned and consider how you can leverage the highly transferable skills you’ve gained. Now that you know how to volunteer for natural disasters, you might want to consider how to become a disaster relief worker full time.
Disaster relief volunteer work may have a deep impact on your life.
Consider if there is scope for staying involved with the organization you volunteered with as a member of their alumni community or find out if there is a point of contact for discussing potential employment opportunities.
Supporting alumni with their career development, empowering them to continue to activate purpose in their local communities, and routinely hiring from the alumni community are some of the best practices an organization can have. Hopefully your program provides volunteers with ongoing guidance and opportunities to remain a valued member of the team.
Translate your experience in a meaningful way; volunteering experience can be an impactful addition to your resume.
Get matched with 5 international disaster relief volunteer programs
5 ways to be an international disaster relief volunteer
1. All Hands and Hearts
All Hands and Hearts brings people from different walks of life, belief systems, and values together to safely and effectively respond to natural disasters. By living in and working alongside the communities they serve, they have identified that long-term investment in resilient infrastructure is the most effective way to support their recovery.
In their 15 years responding to natural disasters, they have launched 122 disaster programs across 20 countries, impacting more than 1.2 million lives and allowing more than 113,000 students to return to school. Their 61,000+ volunteers have become a global community of passionate change-makers.
2. Westcoast Connection
Westcoast Connection specializes in programs abroad for a slightly younger age range. Students from 13-17 years old can find opportunities across 70 programs and 25 countries. Currently, their disaster relief program is focused on relief in Houston in the continuing aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. It runs for 10 days and is limited to students aged 16 to 18 (sophomores, juniors, and seniors).
3. Rustic Pathways
Rustic Pathways has been named Best Youth Tour Operator in four of the past five years by World Youth Student, all thanks to their focus on safe and transformational service trips for students and families. Their disaster relief program in New Orleans allows participants to be a part of the recovery process post-Katrina through grassroots initiatives.
4. GoEco
GoEco is a renowned volunteer organization that offers dozens of unique experiences in conservation and medical projects around the world. Internships and volunteer placements are available in locations like Madagascar, Kenya, New Zealand, Belize, and more. Their disaster relief project in Nepal focuses on long-term construction and rebuilding projects near Kathmandu.
5. Projects Abroad
Projects Abroad sends up to 10,000 students around the world every year to participate in volunteer projects and internships in developing countries. They pride themselves on their in-country support for participants and on the real impact that their projects have. Their disaster management project in Jamaica is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to have a career in aid and relief.
Compare these programs side-by-side for FREE with MyGoAbroad
Find disaster relief volunteer work and help a community rebuild
Your time and effort will make a difference.
Anyone who has committed their time, energy and skills to helping others understands that volunteering is an act of love. If you’ve never volunteered before, now is the time to train your giving muscles. Compassion transcends ethnicity, political views and cultural norms; no matter the investment, international disaster relief volunteers willing to serve will earn back invaluable connections, unforgettable experiences, and feel part of something bigger than themselves.
Explore disaster relief volunteer opportunities on GoAbroad.com
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