Erin Dowd

Erin Dowd

Go Overseas Writer

Erin is a New Jersey native who has spent time on 6 of 7 of the world's continents, some of which as a volunteer in both Tanzania and Honduras. Learn more about her travel adventures at Dowd Travels, Amster Dowd, or on Twitter @eedowd27 and Google+.

My Reviews

Erin Dowd
Erin
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

First India Then Honduras

Moving Worlds is amazing! They provide connections to volunteer opportunities all over the world targeting specific skills, and they also support through online training and a comprehensive document that becomes the pre-departure conversation between the volunteer and the organization. While I can only speak for the two organizations I volunteered with, I had experiences that both benefited my career and gave me new ideas for future endeavors.

In my first placement I was the ESL coordinator at Vanavil Trust in India tasked with setting up a computer lab, training teachers in English instructional practices, working with students, and providing recommendations for improvement. Everyone I worked with cared deeply about the children in the program, and I felt safe and at home immediately. I still plan to work with them on future projects.

When I got home I didn't feel like I was done volunteering so I checked out the Moving Worlds website again to find a fantastic opportunity to further develop my skills in curriculum writing and consultation. I began working with Honduras Child Alliance. I was able to visit the project site twice and write an entire curriculum. I was then able to train volunteers and program staff and observe my project in action.

Because of Moving Worlds I have been able to extend my global network, deepen my skills, and explore a new career option.

Erin Dowd
Erin
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Tanzanian Adventure

My experience with the CCS Tanzania program was a great one. The staff was absolutely amazing, and I considered them to be my family away from home. In addition to the volunteer placement, I was able to go on safari and to nearby Zanzibar on the weekends. This was an experience that I will never forget. The town Bagamoyo (where I volunteered) means "lay down your heart," in Swahili. I definitely left part of my heart there.