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There has been considerable growth in the volunteer vacation
concept in the U.S. since around the mid-1980s. The increased
demand has been attributed to an increased sense of global
awareness among the Baby Boom generation, along with a growing
willingness to make a contribution to other societies while
on vacation. This study consisted of two parts, the first
of which was an identification and description of some of
the major organizations in the U.S. providing volunteer
vacation opportunities. Next the concept of the mini-mission
or “mission lite” was described as a potential
means for tour operators to build volunteering into itineraries.
An exploratory study was conducted to determine the potential
demand for the mission lite concept, which could be instrumental
in significantly expanding participation in volunteer vacations
in the future. A survey was conducted among a sample of
members of the Ambassadair Travel Club, the largest organization
of its type in the U.S. The study’s results indicated
considerable potential demand for adding a volunteer component
as part of the overall vacation experience. The activities
in which the respondents had the greatest interest in participating
on volunteer vacations were arts and crafts, chaperoning
orphans, educational activities, building projects, physical
fitness activities, and medical assistance. There appeared
to be certain characteristics of those who are likely to
be more interested in volunteer vacation participation.
These included people who volunteer in their home communities,
and those with higher levels of education, especially postgraduate
degrees. Additionally, those who vacation more frequently
and with higher household incomes may be more likely to
participate. |
