Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of an ABV Volunteer

Volunteering with A Broader View (ABV) is a unique and unforgettable experience that provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in local cultures, contribute to community development, and make a positive impact in our world. In this article, we will take you behind the scenes to explore a typical day in the life of an ABV volunteer, highlighting the various activities, projects, and experiences that make up an enriching and memorable volunteer journey.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to ABV Volunteering
2. Morning: Preparing for the Day
3. During the Day: Working on Projects
4. Evening: Winding Down and Reflection
5. Weekends: Exploring Beyond the Project
6. Conclusion

Introduction to ABV Volunteering

At A Broader View, the emphasis is on providing meaningful and impactful volunteer experiences. This is achieved through a diverse range of projects, which are carefully chosen to address the needs of local communities while offering volunteers the opportunity to develop their skills, empathy, and global awareness. As an ABV volunteer, you can choose from a variety of programs in over 32 countries across Africa, Asia, Central America, and South America.

From teaching English to children in Nepal to assisting in wildlife conservation efforts in Costa Rica, each program is designed to encourage sustainable development and foster positive change. And while each volunteer experience is different, they all share a common goal: creating connections between people from different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives in order to enrich lives and build a more inclusive and understanding world.

Morning: Preparing for the Day

A typical day for an ABV volunteer begins with an early morning. Depending on the project and location, this may be as early as 6 am or as late as 8 am. The morning is a time for personal preparation and mindfulness, as volunteers often find that maintaining a routine helps them feel more centered and present in their volunteer work.

Breakfast is usually shared with the host family or other volunteers either at a homestay or a nearby cafe. This is a great time to get to know your host family members and fellow volunteers, as well as enjoy some delicious and authentic local cuisine. Conversations around the breakfast table often revolve around upcoming plans, cultural insights, and shared observations about the project and location.

During the Day: Working on Projects

Beyond breakfast, the day is largely spent working on your chosen project, whether it’s teaching, medical support, community development, or one of the myriad other opportunities available through ABV.

Education and teaching programs

Volunteers who choose to participate in an education or teaching program typically prepare lesson plans, engage with students in the classroom, and participate in cultural exchange activities. From leading games in English to sharing stories about your home country, your goal is to create a fun, engaging environment that inspires a passion for learning within your students.

Medical and healthcare programs

For volunteers in medical and healthcare programs, your day-to-day responsibilities will vary depending on your expertise and the specific needs of the community. You might spend time shadowing local healthcare professionals, assisting with patient care, or participating in public health initiatives. The goal is to support local healthcare systems while gaining valuable firsthand experience in your field.

Conservation and community development programs

In conservation and community development programs, you may find yourself working on construction projects, joining environmental cleanup efforts, or implementing sustainable initiatives. These projects aim to empower local communities by addressing various challenges they face while fostering a sense of global stewardship among volunteers.

Cultural and social outreach programs

Alternatively, you might choose a program focused on cultural and social outreach, working with marginalized or vulnerable groups to provide education, support, and community-building activities. These programs encourage cross-cultural understanding and challenge volunteers to break down barriers and create lasting, meaningful connections.

No matter which project you choose, each day spent with ABV is an opportunity to make a difference, bond with like-minded individuals from around the world, and develop valuable skills that will serve you well in your personal and professional life.

Evening: Winding Down and Reflection

As you wrap up your work for the day, it’s important to take the time to unwind and reflect on your accomplishments and experiences. This might involve engaging in group discussions with other volunteers or writing in a personal journal. Reflecting on your day can help you process your emotions and increase your understanding of the cultural complexities around you.

Evenings are also an excellent time for further cultural immersion by sharing a traditional meal with your host family and learning more about their customs, beliefs, and everyday lives. By connecting with those around you, you’ll develop a deeper sense of empathy and broaden your view of the world.

Weekends: Exploring Beyond the Project

While weekdays are primarily focused on volunteer work, weekends offer a chance to explore the local area and engage in recreational activities. Many ABV volunteers seize this opportunity to visit historical sites, natural landmarks, or nearby cities while also taking part in local events or festivals.

Weekend excursions provide a respite from the intensity of volunteering and allow you to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the culture and environment you’re immersed in. It’s important to remember that volunteering with ABV is not just about the work you do; it’s about the connections you make and the experiences you have while discovering and appreciating the world around you.

Conclusion

A day in the life of an A Broader View volunteer is filled with rewarding challenges, meaningful interactions, and personal growth. From the moment you begin your day to the moment you lay your head down to rest, every experience you encounter contributes to the transformative effect of volunteering abroad.

As you dream of the impact your efforts will have, both on the lives of others and on your own personal development, hopefully, this glimpse into a day in the life of an ABV volunteer helps you envision the rich, vibrant journey that awaits you when you choose to volunteer with A Broader View.