For most orphaned African children, angels are very real people. They experience brief encounters with them- people who come in and out of their orphanages, their squatter camps and their lives -- and for very fleeting moments they stay.

Here are some of the common problems I have seen in the voluntourism market and some tips for travelers on how to choose the right program.

While giving a speech to a prep school in New York, I was asked an awesome question by a high school senior looking to volunteer in an orphanage. He w...

While the vast majority of volunteers have the best of intentions, some do not, and child protection experts say unregulated volunteering is happening at the risk of everyone involved.

It can be hard to hear that after one year of service things will make more sense and come together, but that sentiment has rung true for many Peace Corps volunteers.

That mix of nervous anticipation and unbridled excitement reminded me of freshman orientation, but for the hundreds of students aboard the MV Explorer this semester, they are experiencing a cultural baptism by sea.

This recession sucks, and with no clear end in sight, it's time for some drastic actions. Come volunteer. It could be the best adventure of your life.

The experience of moving to another country to volunteer has a way of stripping you naked, forcing you to look at yourself without as many distractions or escape routes that are present in the States.