As the summer heat bears down on a number of areas this week, many of us have thoughts of visiting the beach or just relaxing at home. There are, however, others that seek a more charitable goal by taking a volunteer vacation either in the U.S. or aboard. Such volunteer activities at charities can range anywhere from teaching English to assembling storage sheds, building ramps for disabled persons, or playing with children in an orphanage.  In many cases, these activities require participants to pay for their travel and in some instances their room and board as well. Of course prices can vary considerably depending on the destination, length of stay, and other factors.

Here are some tips to consider before making arrangements for a volunteer vacation:

• Check out the charity on Give.org to see it meets the BBB Standards for Charity Accountability
• Find out who pays for the transportation
• See if your medical insurance covers costs incurred abroad
• Find out if immunizations are needed
• Learn about the living conditions and physical requirements 

Video of the Week 

As part of our Building Trust Video Series, we are pleased to provide a video featuring Michael King, President & CEO, Volunteers of America(a BBB Accredited Charity) which is a faith-based organization that works to help those in need live healthy, safe and productive lives. The organization's programs are designed to support seniors, people with disabilities, at-risk youth, men and women returning from prison, homeless individuals and families, those recovering from addictions, and military veterans.  

Recent Reports 

We are always working with charities to publish or update reports for donors. Visit Give.org or local BBBs to check out any charity before giving. Our recently evaluated charities include:

• National Osteoporosis Foundation
• Operation Smile
• Project Concern International 

Finally, remember to let us know by going to https://give.org/charity-inquiry if you are  interested in seeing a report on a charity not on the list and we will do our best to produce one.   

H. Art Taylor, President & CEO
BBB Wise Giving Alliance