A wee story about the joys of volunteering in another country. Rather than traveling. Even as a backpacker… And by “volunteering” I mean: living and working with people. That’s all.

United Planet is really happy to announce a new program where international volunteers can help at a sports camp that serves kids in South Africa who are at risk/disadvantaged.

For the past few years, United Planet has been delighted to work with Flagstone Reinsurance, based in Canada, to send groups of employees on Short-term Quests to several countries.

The center provides care and meals for 40 – 70 children, ages two to 12, who need attention; their families are missing fathers, or struggling with alcohol and drug problems, or suffering from disabilities. Many single moms drop off their kids while they cobble together work – selling food on the streets, cleaning. The center is jumping with life, but existing on a shoestring.

At the elementary school w the teachers from Boston; they’ll be doing English immersion with the best and brightest students… Here’s the deal: teachers are WONDERFUL. It’s so easy to say, Teachers are our Heroes, and then begrudge them what they need to do their jobs. But they are so dedicated, and smart, and giving: and now these teachers are giving even more.