- 1). Select a cause. Find something that you care enough about to devote your vacation time to it. If you need inspiration, visit Travelocity's Voluntourism page. It features a selection of the top trips booked through their charitable partners.
- 2). Search for grants. Start by applying for one of Travelocity's $5,000 Voluntourism grants. Travelocity awards eight grants annually. You can apply as an individual or as a team. The total award is capped at $5,000. In order to qualify for this grant, you must plan your trip with one of Travelocity's Travel for Good partners. The application asks about your history of service, whether your financial circumstances would determine your participation, who would be served by the trip and what makes you or your group stand out from other applicants.
- 3). Talk to the leader of the organization you volunteer with locally. There may be local funding or fundraising opportunities available. If there is no local grant, your organization may be able to refer you to a state or regional grant program.
- 4). Check with your local chapter of the United Way and similar charitable organizations. They may have grants available that are not advertised.
- 5). Look for national organizations related to your cause. For example, if you are interested in doing environmental work during your vacation, join an organization like the Sierra Club. The organization provides grants to chapters and individual members for volunteer vacations. If you are interested in hiking, there are similar opportunities available with the American Hiking Society.
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