Volunteer adventures

An important part of my travel program for 2009 includes volunteer programs. I have volunteered with many organizations over the years, but recently have not felt connected to any specific opportunity.

I had originally planned on including several programs into my schedule along the way. Over the course of designing my trip I was forced to make some significant changes to those early plans. In the end I have boiled it down to a couple of programs in South Africa focused on my love of the the water and marine animals.

I have been accepted into the following two programs managed by Enkosini Wildlife Santuary.

1. Great White Shark Project (learn more)

Gansbaai, South Africa
April 15 - 29, 2009

I will be working within an Eco-tourism program to explore and conserve the world's greatest predator, the Great White Shark, and its environment. I will be able to experience first hand the awesome power and mystical nature of these amazing beasts. Althought I have never been a huge shark fanatic, when I read about this oppotunity, I just couldn't pass it up. I will be sure to keep all my fingers and toes inside the cage. I definitely need to find an underwater camera for this one.


2. Whale & Dolphin Conservation Project (learn more)

Plettenberg Bay, South Africa
April 30 - May 15

I will be working with marine specialists to support this thriving coastal environment by combining education, conservation, community development, science, and tourism. After spending time with the sharks, the majestic nature of the dolphins and various species of whales will be a welcome calming change. This program is focused as much on the community of Plettenberg Bay as the marine programs themselves. There is a ecology centre in the town that requires support as well as several community outreach programs to help sustain the pristine environment. I do hope to get in the water with some of these creatures and will definitely post lots of photos.



Each of these programs require a fee to support the needs of the program and cover my costs while participating. I am hoping to raise $5000 to support my involvement, however, I am prepared to manage the costs on my own if needed. In the past few years, I have converted all of my charitable donations into sponsorships for people who are giving their time and energies to programs that they feel passionate about. So if you would like to participate in my adventures via a donation, I would be very happy to include you within my fundraising efforts. You can use the Donate button below to add funds to my PayPal account (I promise it won't be used on eBay), or if you'd prefer you can contact me directly.

You don't need to have a PayPal account to use this system. You can provide your donation via a credit card or bank account.

Thank you so much for your consideration. I appreciate any form of support and encouragement.