Peace Corp kinda things?

[KathieK]

Mike, I applaud your desire to want to volunteer. The world needs more volunteers! But perhaps you can find something closer to home, here in the US, that would appeal more to your parents. There are many opportunities to serve. Many newspapers run a column for organizations looking for volunteers; civic and religious organizations sometimes have volunteer projects you can get involved in (Habitat for Humanity, Appalachian Service Project are two that my own family have become involved with. If part of the appeal of Peru was the travel to a distant country, start with something in another part of the region or country; you will be amazed at the differences in different parts of this country!

First you should consider what type of work you are good at - construction type projects, tutoring younger students, working with animals, etc. and then look for an opportunity that would match your interests. There's nothing worse than being a volunteer at something you don't enjoy doing - it doesn't benefit anyone. If you're considering a possible career path, try and find a volunteer position in that field - it's a good way to find out if it still interests you or not! (I volunteered beginning at age 16, in a hospital, and soon discovered that the medical field was NOT something I was cut out for!)

Good luck with your volunteer "career" - the benefits you may reap are better than any job in the world!