Cost Benefits VCV vs Paid Employment for a Retiree
Author Name: Susan Guggenheim, VCV Volunteer
Side-by-side comparison of volunteering with VCV versus a Paid teaching job for a retired person on a public/private pension or retirement savings. Note that volunteers may stay for a shorter period of time – perfect for those retirees who want to travel cheaply but not move to a foreign country.
Not included in the table above are these additional benefits:
Personal Growth
- Enhanced communication skills, confidence, and cultural awareness.
- Opportunity to develop teaching skills in a diverse classroom setting.
- Experiencing Vietnamese culture firsthand through interactions with locals and immersive living arrangements.
- Gaining valuable experiences in teaching without the need for prior teaching certificates or experience.
- Building lifelong friendships with fellow volunteers from around the world.
- Exposure to a variety of teaching environments, from community classrooms to partner schools and online classes.
- Flexibility to volunteer for durations ranging from two months to one year, accommodating diverse schedules.
- Participation in cultural and social activities during Sundays, offering an immersive experience in local customs and traditions.
Practical Benefits
- Free accommodation in a safe and accessible area with necessary amenities like WiFi, laundry, hot water, and more.
- Two main Vietnamese home-cooked meals are provided daily. Additionally, we occasionally offer opportunities to taste local Vietnamese cuisine during parties, food tour and food exchange events. Breakfast foods are provided for volunteers to prepare for themselves.
- Access to teaching resources, including teaching materials, computers, printers, and transportation for classes further away.
- Assistance from local teaching aides in community classes and primary schools.
- Support from staff members available from 9 am to 9 pm, M-F for any assistance required.
- Monthly community outreach activities to contribute to local communities.
Cultural Immersion
- Living in Nam Từ Liêm district of Hanoi, surrounded by local amenities and within walking distance to cultural sites, markets, and entertainment options.
- Opportunity to engage with students, share experiences, and explore Vietnamese cities during day trips or outings.
- Experiencing Vietnamese traditions, including local markets, museums, and social gatherings.
At VCV Vietnam we offer you a free opportunity to volunteer from a reputable NGO in Hanoi with amazing benefits. Are you ready to connect with us? We hope so!