Make an Impact as a Short-Term Volunteer in Palestine: Most people who volunteer aboard hope to make a difference. With the best intentions, volunteers travel to various places and work with various organizations with hopes to make a contribution. So, how can this be done well? What makes a valuable volunteer? How can you and the project/organization you are working with benefit the most from your volunteer work? We are sharing a few things to keep in mind to have a positive and significant volunteer experience.

First, when searching for a volunteer program in Palestine, try to find a program that is sustainable. Organizations that have long-term commitments to the population they are working with are great because once you complete your time volunteering, you can rest knowing that the program will continue on. As you are looking for sustainable volunteer projects, also try to find one that matches your skillset. The skills and background knowledge that you bring will benefit the organization greatly. For instance, if you have experience teaching English to non-native English speakers, then we advise searching for English teaching positions abroad. If you have a background in science or engineering, then find volunteer programs catered to those specializations. Not only will you enjoy the opportunity to use your skills, but the organization you volunteer for will appreciate what you have to contribute.

Once you get admitted to a volunteer program in Palestine, book your tickets, pack your bags, and arrive at your destination, there are a number of things to keep in mind while volunteering. No matter what volunteer project you are working on, flexibility will be key. Organizations appreciate volunteers that are adaptable and can work well with changing schedules. When a need arises, volunteers may be asked to step in and help. At times, you may be asked to participate in something you are unfamiliar with. It may be challenging, but this is always great experience to get outside your comfort zone and try something new. This adaptability is a very valuable quality in volunteers. When volunteering aboard, don’t be afraid to stretch yourself and try new things.

Another way to make an impact as a short-term volunteer in Palestine is to maintain a willingness to learn. As you volunteer abroad, there are countless opportunities to learn – from the new place, new culture, and new people you are surrounded by. When volunteering with the Excellence Center, for instance, international volunteers meet other internationals as well as local Palestinians. We highly encourage volunteers to meet as many people as they can and keep learning, both while working on their project and outside of their volunteer project. There is no better way to learn than being immersed in a new place and culture.

Over all, to make an impact as a short-term volunteer in Palestine, find a sustainable program to participate in, remain flexible, try new things, and be open and willing to learn. Volunteering abroad may have its challenges – particularly if you are volunteering in a place you are unfamiliar with – but it also comes with great joys and cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Volunteering in Palestine can be highly rewarding for you as the volunteer and the organization that you work with.