Volunteering abroad is a great way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while gaining valuable life experiences. One of the best opportunities is to volunteer at an elephant sanctuary in Thailand. Many sanctuaries need help caring for rescued elephants by feeding, bathing and exercising them. You get hands-on experience with these gentle giants in a natural setting. The Elephant Nature Park is one highly reputable organization that accepts volunteers.

Another meaningful option is to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and help build homes for those in need. They operate all over the world, from Asia to Africa to Central and South America. As a volunteer, you’ll work alongside locals to construct simple, decent homes. No experience is required and it’s a great way to make a tangible impact on a family’s life.

If you want an educational experience, consider volunteering to teach English. Programs like DaLaa and uVolunteer place volunteers in schools and community programs in Cambodia and Thailand. As an English teacher, you’ll help students develop language skills that can open up more opportunities. It’s a rewarding experience that allows for cultural exchange.

For those interested in wildlife and conservation, volunteering at an animal sanctuary or with wildlife conservation efforts can be highly meaningful. The Jane Goodall Institute operates sanctuaries and conservation programs across Africa that accept volunteers. You may monitor chimpanzees, assist with animal rescue and release, or help raise awareness about poaching. These programs give you direct exposure to wildlife and environmental conservation work.

Volunteering in a healthcare clinic or with medical outreach programs is also impactful. Organizations like Doctors Without Borders and Healthcare Volunteers International place volunteers in short or long-term positions at clinics and hospitals around the world. If you have training as a nurse, doctor, dentist or other healthcare professional, your skills and services would be greatly appreciated. Even those without medical training can assist in other capacities.