Programs Similar to Peace Corps?

Programs like the Peace Corps for people under 18?

• I am 15 1/2 and I would like to know if there is any program in or like the Peace Corps that would enable a minor to serve in a third world country. That doesnt charge a high tuition fee.

• Answer:

  There's going to be a fee, so it depends on your definition of "high." It also depends on what you think the Peace Corps is, because I'm pretty sure you're looking for something different. Peace Corps takes college graduates and highly skilled people in the workforce and has them teach people in developing countries for two years how to do things like create networks, teach English, plan sustainable communities and the like. And you walk into a situation where you have to create your own job. It sounds like you're hoping for somewhere you can go in and work in an existing, pre-planned program. Those are great, but remember your "high tuition" goes to that pre-planning. Cross Cultural Solutions, IFRE Vacations are two I've done. I also planned an itinerary for another company called Rustic Pathways. Global Volunteers is another, but there are hundreds. You can narrow them down by figuring out how long you'd like to serve and what you'd like to do. I've seen places where you can work with kids, build trails, restore coral reefs and work with animals. You can start with searches like "volunteer vacations turtles." Research thoroughly and involve your parents. You're not going anywhere without their approval, so be sure to ask former participants and their parents for testimonials. Legit organizations will be happy to set you up with people who will vouch for them. Happy hunting and good luck.