Why volunteer for agriculture?
Agriculture provides food which keeps the human race alive. We don’t stand a chance without it. According to Food and Agriculture Organization, more than 40% of the population in developing countries are employed in the agricultural sector which makes it the largest employer worldwide. By 2050, the planet will count 9 billion people indicating a need for 60% more food. The FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) stresses the need for sustainable agricultural practices to support this growth.
Sustainability
Unfortunately, not all communities can rely on sustainable practices and in many cases, lack the know-how. The FAO states that success in sustainable agriculture lies in efficient use of earth’s resources and action to conserve, protect and enhance them. Inability to sustain their own community has become one of the prime reasons for hunger in developing countries. Hunger and poverty have led communities to engage in environment threatening activities like logging, mining, and poaching. Volunteer for one of the projects and teach communities agricultural practices that will allow them to fulfill their needs. Become an agriculture volunteer and work with communities to transfer knowledge about crops and how they can grow them for their own use.
Awareness
In the developed world, we are becoming more and more unaware of the process of agriculture. We don’t know the source of our food. People don’t fully appreciate the abundance we are offered in supermarkets which are conveniently located just a stone’s throw from our homes. Going back to the farm is a great opportunity to connect with nature again and increase your understanding about the food supply. Learn how to plant, grow and harvest crops during this enriching experience abroad.
Culture and Traditions
Some local communities have kept up long standing traditions and maintain agricultural practices which are centuries old. Conservation of these practices is vital to keep them alive. Agriculture volunteers can support local communities with daily tasks ranging from farming crops to fertilizing. Grasp the chance to learn about medicinal plants, plough the field with the help of oxen and milk cows old fashion style. You will be connected with the local community and interchange skills. Teach English and introduce them to your culture while immersing yourself in theirs. Look at the various programs available to see what you can do to support the conservation of agricultural practices.
What will I do as a volunteer for agriculture?
Ready for some dirty work? Lather on some sunscreen and pick up a shovel or hatchet. This will be a hands-on experience where you will be helping with tasks such as:
- Crop farming
- Animal farming
- Fertilizing
- Teaching techniques to the community
- Making chicken coops
- Compost stations
- Seedling boxed and station
- Organic farming
- Ecological farming
- Teaching
Teaching
Most of the farming on the projects will be done in the morning or later in the afternoon when the sun isn’t at its hottest. During the heat of the day, volunteers may be asked to assist with teaching. Teaching locals English is a great opportunity to connect with the community and escape the scorching sun.
Sustainable Agriculture
Certain projects focus on sustainability and being self-sufficient. This will involve the volunteer to help with daily task and increase awareness. It gives volunteers the chance to learn sustainable habits and take them home with them. By joining one of these projects, you are supporting the community by taking part and lessening the load. You will also be contributing to the conservation of some of the oldest agricultural practices.
Agricultural Development
Other agriculture volunteer projects are set up to support communities that are lacking agricultural skills and know how. The task of the volunteer is to teach agricultural practices and help communities become self-sufficient. Volunteer for agriculture and increase the quality of life within the local community. Some of the things you will be teaching during a project focused on agricultural development are:
- Efficient use of the land
- Natural pest control
- Soil conservation
- Income generation from agriculture
Volunteer for agriculture and learn how crucial it is to humankind. Learn invaluable (organic) farming techniques and take the opportunity to connect with the local community while helping them grow.
What language skills are required?
English is the main language on all projects so it’s important that volunteers have a good understanding of English. This is important to communicate with the staff at the project center and other volunteers. For projects in South America, it would be great if you gain a basic knowledge of Spanish prior to going. Knowing some Spanish words will kickstart your volunteer adventure.
Best places to volunteer for agriculture
If you aren’t afraid of breaking a sweat and you want to discover some of the most magnificent places in the world, volunteer for one of the many programs. Become one with nature by spending time on a farm, learning more about the importance of organic crops and connecting with the community. Embrace the restorative impact of this experience.
Latin America
Volunteers eager to brush up on their Spanish can head to Latin America. Guatemala, Brazil, Peru, Chile and more have agriculture projects that rely on the help of volunteers. Join a sustainable farming project or support an organic coffee farm. Take in your exquisite surroundings while you plough your way through the day.
Africa
Support farmers in rural villages. Assist the communities in building agricultural practices in places like Ghana, Kenya, Uganda and South Africa, just to name a few. Volunteer, pack your sunglasses and prepare for a project in amazing Africa. Plant some seeds in Africa and watch them grow.
Asia
Nepal, India, and Indonesia will welcome volunteers for agriculture with their warm hospitality. Discover these colorful gems, get close to nature and support the community by joining one of the programs.
There are plenty of projects focused on agriculture. Pick the one that calls out to you and dedicate your time to growing greens and allowing the local community to flourish. Go abroad and join a farm, it will be an experience you’ll never forget.
Top 5 benefits of volunteering for agriculture
It’s hard to name drawbacks when talking about volunteering opportunities. It’s always associated with feelings of positivity. Volunteering for an agricultural project with one of the projects is an excellent cause. You will support local communities with their agricultural activities or supply them with the tools to do so. But let’s take a look at what is in it for you:
- Valuable Learning Opportunities
Volunteering for agriculture abroad will teach those who have never grown a crop in their life, a lot about farming. You’ll learn more about sustainable living and at the same time, gain insight into a new culture. Programs are also focused on the conservation of agricultural practices which you get the chance to learn. This unique experience will also teach you a lot about yourself.
- Meet other people
Those who like to work independently in peace and quiet will find volunteering for agriculture a relaxing experience. However, it will also be a social experience. You’ll connect with the local community and other volunteers who have similar values and interests as you. Get ready to plant the seeds of long-lasting friendships.
- New Experiences
Volunteering is a brilliant way to expand your perspective of the world. Issues that seemed huge problems before, may seem trivial after your volunteer experience. Life experiences make you stronger which will empower you for the future and stand your ground in a world which is constantly changing.
- Health Improvements
Nature and volunteering are two important ingredients to achieve happiness. Nature has proven to have a positive impact on health factors in people while volunteering has shown to increase feelings of purpose and happiness. Volunteer for agriculture and enjoy this healthy cocktail while doing something wonderful for this world.
- Travel
This is your chance to explore the world and discover some of the most interesting places the world has to offer. You’ll be doing this while contributing to a meaningful cause. What are you waiting for? Get out your luggage and start packing!
How do I get started as a volunteer for agriculture?
You want to go abroad and get your hands dirty and get close to nature? Select a few projects that spark your interest to begin with. Once you’ve done that, let’s take a look at the first 3 steps which will send you on your way to volunteering for an agricultural project:
- Check whether there’s a match between you and the agriculture project by looking at their requirements.
- Take a look at the location of the project abroad and decide whether it would be a location you are excited about.
- Get in touch with the organization and see whether your expectations and your schedule match up.
Once this is sorted. Let’s take a look at the practical steps:
Insurance (Health & travel)
We recommend getting both health and travel insurance. In fact, this is even a requirement for all volunteer programs abroad. Get in touch with your program’s contact person to find out if an insurance plan is already in place for volunteers.
Visa, Passport and Documentation
Once you know your destination, take the following 3 steps before setting off on your life-changing adventure!
- Look into the visa requirements for the country you will volunteer in abroad.
- Make sure you have a valid passport considering the requirement of the host country
- Make sure you prepare the correct documents to fulfill the visa application
You’re all set to start your life on the farm. Pack your sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses and get ready to plant, grow and reap the benefits of this incredible experience abroad. Africa, Asia, South America or even Europe are awaiting your application
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