‘Voluntourism’ blends altruism, tourism

Kiwanians who enjoy exploring exotic locations can combine their passions for service and travel. Through the Ambassadors for Children’s (AFC) “voluntourism” program, Kiwanians can rebuild Thai villages devastated by the December 2004 tsunami, work side-by-side with El Salvador Kiwanians to build homes for needy families, deliver medical and dental aid to people in the Dominican Republic, or work with at-risk students in Mexico schools. And soak up incredible beaches, extraordinary culture, and fabulous fellowship.

Operated by the Ambassadair Travel Club, the four Kiwanis/AFC projects include:

•  Dominican Republic, medical and dental mission, December 1-4, 2005. Dentists, doctors, and other medical professionals are needed, but other volunteers can help deliver medical care and basic hygiene training to at-risk youth. Volunteers also will enjoy sun, sand, and surf at a Puerto Plata beachfront hotel.

•  Mexico school program for at-risk children, February 21-25. Deliver much-needed school supplies and spend time with street children at a rehabilitation center, while you savor the tropical splendor of Puerto Vallarta.

•  El Salvador Villa Kiwanis, March 11-18, 2006. Join Salvadoran Kiwanians in their continuing efforts to serve children whose families were left homeless by a 2001 earthquake.

•  Thailand tsunami relief, June 8-18, 2006. Projects may include beach and reef cleanup, teaching English to schoolchildren, and building homes. Participants also will tour Bangkok, including boat cruises through the Thonburi klongs (canals), which earn the city its reputation as “Venice of the East.” Click here for a news release about this event.

For more information, including costs and travel itineraries, click here.