There are already loads of online resources, books and magazines about volunteering that suggest opportunities to folks who are looking for meaningful ways to give back while traveling. The team at Lonely Planet has recently joined the club with their own Guide to Volunteering — a handbook meant to inspire and help travelers make a difference as they move through this world. The guide offers advice on how to choose the right volunteer experience, raise the funds and extend the goodwill once you get home.
Traveling responsibly means looking for ways to make a difference, whether it’s a small act of giving back while on holiday, committing to a long-term overseas assignment, or establishing a grassroots movement or charity. The book has case studies and interviews with dozens of volunteers, and is organized by type of experience: structured or do-it-yourself. If you are considering a volunteer encounter on your next trip, this is a great new resource to turn to for ideas on how to get started.