Looking for a volunteer vacation in the U.S.? Well, BestVolunteer.org has put together a list of the top five organizations to help you make the best decision possible. From planting cacti in the grand canyon to hiking beautiful trails in Hawaii, there are volunteer opportunities in some of the most gorgeous places in the United States. FYI, BestVolunteer.org is not sponsored by any of the organizations listed.
1. The Grand Canyon. Re-greening the South Rim of The Grand Canyon is critical for restoring the native vegetation that has experienced alarming decline in recent years. The planting of cactus and other indigenous plants takes place both outdoors and in the nursery, while other work includes the construction of fences to protect degraded areas from further decline. Being physically fit is strongly recommended, as day packs and water must be carried at all times, and temperatures can vary from very hot during the day to very cold at night. Vacations take place in September, and the cost includes meals, tools, and instructions. http://www.sierraclub.org/outings/national/brochure/11339a.aspx
2. Maui, Hawaii. The island of Maui offers a number of volunteer vacation opportunities, including maintaining and clearing paths along the Na Ala Hele Trail, stabilizing the north shore around Ho’okipa Beach Park, and reef conservation through work with the Reef Environmental Education Foundation. Many of these projects require work to begin as early as 7:30 am, with work often lasting between 3-7 hours. Physical fitness may also be required for some of the restoration projects, particularly in the restoration of the 500-year old Ko’ie’ie native fishpond. Although meals and lodging are not included, volunteers may enjoy discounts in return for their efforts. http://volunteer-on-vacation-hawaii.com/hawaii-volunteer-vacations-projects.htm
3. Chugash National Forest, Alaska. A volunteer vacation at the Chugash National Forest will typically last a week, and it will focus on the removal of invasive species of plants along the Summit Creek Trail located on the Kenai Peninsula. Maintaining the trails and their surrounding areas are other skills that will be learned and taught during the excursion, and constructing or restoring bridges may be necessary in some areas. Physical fitness is required due to the nature of the projects, although no previous experience is required to join the project. However, day packs and water will need to carried by participants. Check out all volunteer vacations AmericanHiking.org as to offer. http://www.americanhiking.org/volunteer-vacations/
4. The Appalachian Trail. A volunteer vacation along the Appalachian Trail can take place anywhere from Maine to Georgia, as the trail itself stretches 2,175 miles and crosses 14 states. The type of work and required skill level will vary according to the location, with some of the heaviest work being done by the Rocky Top Crew, which maintains the trails across the Smoky Mountains. Lighter volunteer vacations can be found with the Maine Trail Crew, which maintains trails through 280 miles of scenic woodland. Although meals are usually provided, housing will vary according to campsite locations. A list of what to bring will be provided upon registration. http://www.outdoors.org/volunteers/
5. New Orleans, LA. The Common Ground organization was founded following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, and it is still in tremendous need of volunteers. The organization focuses primarily on rebuilding, and welcomes volunteers with skills ranging from construction and technology to legal issues and advocacy. Volunteers are also able to work for a period as long or as short as they prefer, making this one of the most flexible volunteer vacation opportunities available. Dorm-style housing and most meals are provided in the residential community located in the Lower Ninth Ward of the city, and remains open year-around for a very small cost. www.commongroundrelief.org.