Peace Corps Alternatives - Programs Similar to Peace Corps

There are a number of Peace Corps alternatives but the trick is finding one that meets your needs. The Peace Corps has the experience and resources to take amazing care of its volunteers. Programs similar to Peace Corps may not and it's largely up to you to figure which one is best for your situation. Many programs similar to Peace Corps are run through universities and non-profit organizations that are very respectable and can deliver what they promise. It's even likely that they have former Peace Corps Volunteers on staff. But you need to be very careful and do your research. There are also a lot of programs that are poorly run or even just out to get your money.

A few things to think about when considering Peace Corps alternatives:

How long do you want to volunteer for? A few weeks, months, or longer?
What skills do you have and what do you want to do?
Are there any language requirements?
How much will it cost? Even though you'll be volunteering there will be significant expenses involved.
Most often you need to come up with the money yourself. And in general it's not cheap.
What is covered in the cost? Airfare, food, lodging, medical, ...?

It may make sense to start by searching the web for terms like "Peace Corps Alternatives" or "Overseas Volunteer Programs". See if you can find programs like the Peace Corps that match your interests. Then search the web for people who have volunteered through these programs and read what they have to say. They are often blogs and posts to forums about their experiences with volunteer organizations. Look for trends in what is written and keep a list of what you've learned.

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You may also want to search the web for looking local universities for "semester abroad" or "study abroad" programs. Some will have programs similar to the Peace Corps that might meet your needs. Often you can earn college credit for these programs.

Finally, one Peace Corps alternative you may want to consider is volunteering in your local. You'll gain new skills, meet lots of interesting people (probably even some returned Peace Corps Volunteers), and get a better sense of what you might do overseas. Americorps is a good example. Idealist.org is also a good place to start. They also have useful information on volunteering abroad.