Episode 133: The Power of Voluntourism During the Teen Years interview with Tobie Spears, Founder of Be Humanitarian
- Author
- Alli
- Published
- Tue 08 Apr 2025
- Episode Link
- None
About Be Humanitarian
- Founded by Tobie Spears 13 years ago to provide basic needs (education, nutrition, English classes) to communities in Guatemala
- Name is a "call to action" encouraging others to find ways to make the world better
- Focuses on supporting whole families, helping parents thrive so children's lives improve
Benefits of Teen Volunteerism
- Builds empathy, confidence, leadership skills, and sense of purpose
- Exposes teens to global challenges and different cultures
- Creates lasting memories and bonds between participants
- Helps with college/job applications by demonstrating initiative
- Fundraising teaches valuable skills like communication and perseverance
Trip Activities and Logistics
- Combine service work with cultural experiences and fun activities
- Examples: Hiking volcanoes, releasing baby turtles, participating in festivals
- Stay in vetted Airbnbs/hotels, use trusted local drivers
- Trips planned around school breaks, can be tax-deductible
- $20/month sponsorships available to support ongoing programs
Tobie's Background
- Grew up with single mom on welfare, experienced receiving donated gifts/food
- Realized developing countries lack social services, motivated to help
- Started with coat drive as teen, learned value of collective action
- Now takes groups to Guatemala multiple times per year
Connect with Be Humanitarian
Email: [email protected]
Check out these books!
A Path Appears - Sheryl WuDunn & Nicholas Kristof
Half The Sky
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