Why you should get involved with housing projects abroad

Students who may be looking for something fulfilling to do with a gap year should consider working on housing projects.  There are thousands of these around the world, and they seek volunteers of all skill levels to help provide housing facilities for local communities.  Projects of this type are a great way to learn new skills, make new friends and make a contribution to people in need.  It is not only third world countries that appreciate this type of help; there are projects in the USA and parts of Europe that welcome volunteers.

The benefits of getting involved include being able to go at any time of year, and to spend as much time there as is required.  There are short-term projects which students can join for anywhere between one to twelve weeks, or there are longer-term projects lasting from six months up to a year.  Generally there is a minimum age of 18, but in some countries students as young as 16 can take part.  Training is provided for the project work, and accommodation and food are usually included in the cost.  However, every project involves different conditions, and these should be examined carefully beforehand.  Participants also get a chance to spend time exploring the country they are visiting, and to learn about its culture and traditions.

Helping the community

There are many reasons why housing projects are beneficial to a community.  While the main priority is to provide homes for those who need them, other outcomes include the creation of jobs for local workers.  Further benefits are an improvement in existing housing conditions, and fostering a community that is welcoming and safe to live in (since deprived areas often have higher crime rates).

In developing countries, housing projects are often aimed at providing basic accommodation in severely disadvantaged areas.  Many countries in Africa and Asia have millions of people living in makeshift dwellings, and with the help of volunteers this can gradually change for the better.

Building homes around the world

In Chile there are projects to provide homes for families with little or no income.  These are underway both in the capital Santiago and in more rural areas.  The homes being built are intended to replace temporary structures that families currently live in.  As well as contributing to the construction work, students will have the opportunity to get to know some of the families that they are assisting.

In countries such as Romania, construction activities may centre around orphanages.  Some existing orphanages only have basic facilities and require extra space, so the project may be working on upgrading buildings, or adding new structures.  Students might also get the chance to develop additional skills such as helping with childcare.

In the USA, projects vary in size and are typically aimed at helping residents to become independent.  Projects might be located at an existing facility, or may begin with a land auction to start the project from scratch.  There are currently projects in most of the US states, and in other localities such as Puerto Rico.

Photo Credit: Charles & Hudson

Category: Featured, Travel