Workshop: Volunteerism vs. Voluntourism

Many of us have participated in or been on service trips that seek to improve a community that is outside of our own. We bring resources, knowledge, and experiences that are distinct to those in the community of service. The question is, is this kind of service productive? Does it allow communities to construct their own sustainable solutions to problems that they have the capacity to solve on their own? Or does it provide a flimsy infrastructure that collapses after the service trip ends? This workshop will explore the important distinctions between volunteerism and voluntourism and how to ensure that the service you partake in does minimal harm and leaves a positive lasting impact.

Sponsored by GW Alternative Breaks.