As you consider your disability-related needs for a potential volunteer abroad experience, remember that many people with disabilities have successfully coordinated a variety of supports in order thrive in international volunteer settings. Some suggested strategies for selecting a volunteer experience that meets your needs include:
Enlist the support of volunteer program staff (if planning to do a formal program) in the U.S. and abroad to identify potential barriers and disability-related resources in the destination country
Find out more about the specific tasks involved in the volunteer experience and identify adaptations or alternatives for tasks that are not independently manageable
Approach disability organizations in the host country about local resources, such as refrigeration for medications, bicycle repair shops for wheelchair repair or counselor
Consider your strategies for managing disability concerns, and then make an informed choice about a program’s suitability See more: http://www.miusa.org/resource/tipsheet/volunteer-abroad
