Volunteering abroad is an enriching experience that allows you to give back to communities while immersing yourself in a new culture. Whether you’re teaching English, working on environmental projects, or assisting in local healthcare, the impact of your efforts can be profound. However, as with most situations, your experience is heavily reliant on your accommodation and how comfortable you feel in a new country while participating in these projects. The environment you choose to live in can significantly influence your overall experience, shaping your interactions and your ability to adapt.

EUROACE offers a wide range of accommodation options to help you feel comfortable and secure whilst taking part in these projects but our top recommendation is to combine your volunteer program with a stay with a host family.

This way, you’re not just engaging with fellow volunteers and teams; you’re also coming home to a warm and inviting environment – something that shared apartments or hotels often cannot provide. Our blog today goes a bit deeper into the advantages of our volunteer program and shows you how combining a volunteer program with a host family is the ultimate choice for a transformative journey.

Support and guidance

Navigating a new country can be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the language or local customs. A host family can provide essential support and guidance, helping you acclimate to your new surroundings. They can offer insights into the best local spots to visit, tips on public transportation, and advice on cultural norms. This support system can make your transition smoother and more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on your volunteer work and personal growth.

One of the joys of traveling is experiencing the local cuisine, and what better way to do that than through home-cooked meals and recommendations from locals. Staying with a host family means you’ll enjoy authentic Spanish dishes and have the chance to share them with your family. Sharing meals with your host family also provides a wonderful opportunity to bond and share stories, making your experience even more memorable.

A unique perspective on volunteering 

When you stay with a host family, you gain a unique perspective on the community you’re serving. Your hosts can share their insights about local issues, challenges, and triumphs, enriching your understanding of the impact of your volunteer work. This perspective can deepen your commitment to your project and inspire you to make a more significant difference during your time abroad.

For instance, if you’re volunteering in an educational program, your host family can provide you with insights into the local education system, the challenges students face, and the cultural factors that influence learning. They might share stories about how access to education has changed over the years and the ongoing efforts to improve literacy rates in the community. This deeper understanding can help you tailor your teaching methods to better meet the needs of your students, making your contributions more effective and meaningful.

Deeper connections

Volunteering is about making a difference, but it’s also about building relationships. Staying with a host family allows you to forge deeper connections not only with your hosts but also with the local community. You’ll have the chance to meet a community of different people and maybe even some family members and friends, creating a network of relationships that can last long after your volunteer program ends. These connections can lead to lasting friendships and a more profound understanding of the community you’re serving.

Language practice

For those looking to improve their Spanish language skills, living with a host family is invaluable. You’ll be surrounded by native speakers, providing you with the perfect environment to practice your language skills in real-life situations. This immersive experience allows you to engage in everyday conversations that go beyond textbook phrases and grammar rules, enabling you to learn the nuances of the language as it is spoken in daily life.

As you navigate daily interactions—whether it’s shopping at the local market, asking for directions, or participating in family activities—you’ll gain confidence in your speaking abilities. This newfound confidence can significantly enhance your effectiveness in your volunteer program. For instance, if you’re teaching English or working on community projects, being able to communicate clearly and effectively with locals will allow you to connect better with the people you’re serving. You’ll be able to understand their needs, respond to their questions, and engage in meaningful discussions about the impact of your work.

In addition to verbal communication, living with a host family also provides opportunities to improve your listening skills. You’ll hear different accents, speech patterns, and conversational styles, which can help you become a more attentive listener. This skill is crucial for effective communication, especially in a volunteer setting where understanding the community’s needs and feedback is essential for making a positive impact.

Conclusion

Combining a volunteer program with a stay with a Spanish host family is a decision that can transform your experience from a simple trip into a life-changing journey. The cultural immersion, language practice, support, and connections you gain from living with a host family will enhance your volunteer work and create lasting memories. As you plan your next adventure, consider the profound benefits of embracing the warmth and hospitality of a Spanish family. Your heart—and the community you serve—will definitely thank you for it.

Are you interested in volunteering this year? Get in touch with us to start your application!