Voluntourism, Good or Bad?

[Gregory Matthews]

See:

http://atoday.org/voluntourism-more-harm-than-good.html

[Unchained]

Gregory, that link you posted apparently requires you to be a subscriber.

But you're probably referring to this text? http://spectrummagazine.org/article/2014/12/02/voluntourism-does-more-harm-good

I remember that article, I found it challenging and timely. A good read!

 

Edited September 4, 2015 by Unchained

[Naomi]

Prior to a new volunteer going to  any developing country they should receive instruction on how to handle these situations.  We are  not accustomed to new acquaintances being so open inn asking for gifts, or our personal property.  The cycle has been established by those who have gone before us and it is a difficult issue to deal with.   Our no has to be no ... but explained in a way that will help them understand. 

Anyone who has been in that situation will understand how difficult an issue it is ... you will even receive written heart breaking request after returning home.  Sadly, not all are for guanine reasons

 

[debbym]

unless i have sought and received the wisdom of Christ and His love and grace... i am no better at representing him to members of my home than anyone would be representing Him in any mission post in a foreign land, without His Spirit.  I really believe we can ask and receive, and make mistakes and learn and be guided.  the grasping and struggling to survive human energies cannot be underestimated in their potential to seek gratification and rewards, whether it is a college student  seeking fulfillment, or a disadvantaged child trying to make it in their challenging life.  I don't think any of us are that far apart in our humanity.