Be a volunteer--anywhere in the world: 'Through ... placement organizations, students can arrange to care for children in an orphanage in Ghana, build homes in South Africa, or uncover an ancient Inca settlement.'.

• Author: Slowe, Peter M.
• Position: Americans Abroad

THIS SUMMER, thousands of high school and college students will Wade in their beach vacation gear or internship office attire for backpacks, hiking boots, and passports. With the concept of volunteerism continuing to grow in popularity among young Americans, more and more students are traveling around the globe and rolling up their sleeves to make a difference in underdeveloped countries, experiencing a new culture and gaining invaluable work experience.

Through volunteer placement organizations, students can arrange to care for children in an orphanage in Ghana, build homes in South Africa, or uncover an ancient Inca settlement. By riving with host families, they become fully immersed in the local community and culture--and it is not just students who are getting involved. Volunteers also include a rapidly rising number of "career breakers," retirees and out-of-work professionals burdened or restrained by a persistently high global unemployment rate. Many are seeking to keep their professional skills sharp as they beef up their resumes, make new connections, and perhaps acquire the skills needed to support a career change.

This growing trend became known as "taking a gap year" in the early 1990s, as volunteer programs quickly sprouted up around the planet, with progressively more students and professionals opting for academic and work-related breaks. With many developing countries in need of self-funded volunteers, the timing was perfect.

In today's globalized business world, employers increasingly are looking for candidates with hands-on experience in their field, as well as an understanding of and sensitivity towards, other cultures--plus proficiency in more than one language.

In October 2011, our group will begin its second 27-week Global Gap program for recent high school graduates. This seven-month initiative spans three continents, five countries, and 12 service projects--from human rights efforts in South Africa and teaching English in Peru to assisting with marine conservation in Thailand. Designed for recent graduates who want to spend a meaningful year away from their studies, Global Gap allows participants to explore the world and perhaps spark interest in a future career.

Full-time students ages 16-19 can participate in specially-designed two-week summer sessions. Students will work with their peers on projects such as teaching, handling research and observational duties, and participating in evening activities like dance...