The experience of disabilities is not exclusive to certain countries or populations of people; but that does not mean, unfortunately, that disabilities have become “normal” and easy to manage. Many societies have stigmas against people with disabilities or lack funds, education, and resources to help support those in need of physical, mental, or emotional assistance in their daily lives. The silver lining in the field of disabilities is that volunteers can choose to go to a variety of places and work with a range of ages. Here are some of the top locations to volunteer abroad with people with disabilities:
Cambodia is a country where physical disabilities are high due to the prevalence of stray, active landmines. There also tends to be a stigma about people with disabilities in Cambodia, so they are often seen as being weak and untrustworthy. While it is safe to volunteer in Cambodia currently, its past history of civil wars has not helped its people grow or have access to education and healthcare. Volunteers who decide to work with people with disabilities in Cambodia will find they are often assisting individuals who have been physically affected by the war (such as amputees), by working with them on mobility and morale improvement exercises.
Morocco is another country where stigmas about people with disabilities (mental and physical) are quite common. There is a lack of community support, as well as government support, so volunteers are highly sought-after to work with children and young adults with disabilities to help improve their conditions and day to day life. Volunteers can expect to help with a variety of programs, ranging from teaching English to simply playing with the children and offering support and friendship.
Romania is yet another location that is suffering from lack of support by its government and communities. Volunteers can expect to work with children and young people outside of classrooms to simply help motivate them in their daily lives. You may do so by planning educational activities and games while also working as a counselor if they need emotional support.
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