By Simone Butler
Vacations are the epitome of relaxation, self-renewal and amusement, as they distract us from the normal hustle and bustle modern living has swung our way. Arizona is known for its amazing resorts—some paired with impressive golf courses, spas and gourmet dining experiences—so indulging in a relaxing staycation is always a great option for us Arizonans. Consider, however, a trip that allows you to meld philanthropy and pleasure—a “working vacation” where you can assist in community building and learn about certain trades, places and lifestyles. There are opportunities galore to help you combine feeling good and doing good in your next venture.
Typical working vacations require that you work a certain number of hours, but you are free to explore and make your own plans the remainder of the time. Often sponsored by non-profit organizations, vacations such as these charge a set fee for the entire trip that is usually less than what you would pay at a hotel/resort. Packages tend to include meals and lodging for the duration of your stay. Transportation fees (such as a means of getting there and automobile rental) are typically arranged by you, and paid separately.
Working vacations can take you around the world on a dime, and can impact not only you, but also the locals from the area you choose to help. But did you know there are a lot of working vacations you can take part in right here in Arizona? Check out some of the service projects coming up in 2014.
Shash Diné Eco Retreat, Page
facebook.com/ShashDineEcoRetreat, Paul and Baya Meehan, 928-640-3701
Reside in a Hogan and experience an off-grid lifestyle on Navajo Nation soil. This self-sustaining bed and breakfast requires assistance with projects that range from teaching and language practice to assisting with outdoor projects including farming, building structures and tending to animals. Close to Lake Powell and the Grand Canyon, living there is free, but voluntourists must pay for their own meals and transportation.
Wilderness Trail Maintenance in the Superstition Mountains, Tonto National Forest
Through Wilderness Volunteers Group, wildernessvolunteers.org
If you fancy hiking or backpacking and want to do service in a national park, the Wilderness Volunteers group would be more than happy for you to tag along. This is a more strenuous trip, however, with miles of backpacking and trekking across streams, and work includes cutting back overgrown vegetation and working on trailheads. During free days, there are day hikes and wildflower viewings. This trip’s meals are vegetarian (meat can be requested), and smoking is not permitted.
March 23-29 | $299
Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF USA)
wwoofusa.org
If you have a green thumb and agriculture is up your alley, WWOOF USA can set you up as an assistant on a host farm, with room and board included. As a cultural and exchange program, WWOOF USA is a great way to learn about modern sustainable practices in farming, and to learn more about American agriculture in general. Currently, there are 36 farms across Arizona that are in conjunction with WWOOF USA. No money is exchanged between the hosts and the volunteers, but there is a mandatory membership fee of $30 in order to gain access to their directory.
Other organizations such as Sierra Club Outings, The Nature Conservancy, Grand Canyon Trust and the American Hiking Society sponsor vacations throughout the year that help combat climate change, preserve wildlife and their habitats, and support those who need it most. So before booking the four-star hotel for your next vacation, why not consider traveling in a novel way for the New Year?
For a more comprehensive list of organizations involved in “voluntourism” adventures, visit arizonaguide.com, and search “Ecotourism-volunteer.”
Simone Butler is an editorial intern, working towards a bachelor’s degree in English with an emphasis on literature and environmental humanities. simone.butler@greenlivingaz.com
