It is Village Volunteers’ expectation that all participants in a volunteer program be respectful of local laws and customs while overseas. Volunteers should keep in mind that they not only represent Village Volunteers and their home country, but that they may also be regarded as a role model for the local village youth.
All volunteers should maintain a modest appearance and conduct themselves in a manner that complies with the expectations set by Village Volunteers and the partner organizations. Below are some guidelines:
- Female volunteers are not to wear tight-fitting, see-through clothing. Shorts, skirts that are above the knee, and midriff-baring or low-cut shirts should be avoided. Women are encouraged to wear loose-fitting shirts and skirts that extend past the knee. Those going to Nepal or India should cover their arms and legs.
- Male volunteers should pack collared shirts and pants along with other items of clothing. Please note that shorts may not be appropriate in rural villages in India.
- For volunteers with visual tatoos and facial piercings, please consult with our team regarding appropriateness in each culture.
- Public displays of affection are prohibited and one should be discrete about sexual orientation.
- Possession of drugs and participating in drug-related activities are strictly prohibited.
- Volunteers should not consume alcohol while in India or Nepal.
- Volunteers are not to take children from their homes or villages without permission.
Should you have any questions, please contact our team.
Interested in becoming more culturally competent?
Sarah Bergdahl, a specialist in intercultural relations, can help volunteers move toward cultural competence through an Intercultual Development Inventory.
While some cultural values are visible through clothing styles, architecture, food and music, the majority of cultural beliefs and values are held within and taken for granted as "normal". By taking the short and simple online Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) volunteers can gain insight into their own orientation to differences and gain valid information to use in their own plan for learning. The IDI gives participants a meaningful understanding of their intercultural experiences.
For more information, go to www.mainstreetintercultural.com and mention "Village Volunteers" for a special discounted price!
