Many of you are struggling with the challenge of deciding whether or not to make a volunteer trip.  Often we hear from nurses asking if the short time you have to spend in another country makes a difference.  We found these insights from many who have volunteered to be helpful and hope you do as well.

In a perfect world, the ideal time for a volunteer experience is at least six months.  This would give volunteers the opportunity to learn the culture and the language, build relationships and develop long-term sustainable goals.
The reality is that very few nurses who are working or studying can afford that type of commitment let alone the cost.  As a result, short-term volunteer trips have become prevalent and popular.  There are, however, some challenges that volunteer nurses need to be prepared for, but with the right preparation, every trip can be fulfilling and memorable. Here are a few of the challenges.
–Limited interaction and immersion – it may take several days for local residents to warm up to you and feel comfortable interacting with you.
–Limited impact – some types of volunteer work simply are not as effective for short-term volunteers, like teaching, for example.
–Feeling rushed – in short-termed commitments, nurses do not always have the opportunity to explore the areas where they are working since there is limited time for your work.
Now let’s look at the solutions.
1. Choose a program conducive to shorter trips – selecting a program such as a specific medical mission, gives volunteer nurses a greater sense of accomplishment and impact in a short time.
2. Research – read about the history and culture of the location where the volunteer opportunity exists. Take some time to learn some of the language so integrating into the community will be easier.
3. Develop a strategy to stay healthy – start adjusting your sleep habits before leaving, if possible.  Stay awake on arrival and retire with the rest of the community.
4. Be proactive – look for opportunities to be helpful and friendly.  Use free time to build relationships by talking with the residents, playing with kids, or asking for language lessons.
5. Keep a positive mindset – don’t let enthusiasm give way to frustration.  Recognize your limitations and make the best of the experience in the limited time available.
Every volunteer can be meaningful and effective, even if time is limited. Simply anticipate challenges, prepare and stay positive.  And, know that when you return home you will have made a difference in the lives of others.
I personally have traveled to Haiti with Hispaniola Mountain Ministries and to Peru with ReSurge International and have found the experiences to be life changing.  The people we worked with were so grateful. It was truly humbling and I wish every nurse and every individual had the opportunity to experience something similar.
~Michael and Frida Donner