CSS? No, CCS...

So, I may or may not have mentioned in passing that there is this huge scholarship/grant I am going to be applying for to do a photo project in a country of my choice that I have to write a paper proposing including a budget, etc., and why it is important for me to go and photography there. And I also may or may not have mentioned my interest in documenting the life of the women who sell flowers on the beaches and the poor children who beg and do menial tasks for the smallest bit of money in India. And my intention of creating a photo book that I would sell and have part of the proceeds go to helping these people.

Well, okay, so if I didn't mention it, there it is. Just an idea.

Here's another idea - http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/
Brazil, China, Costa Rica, Ghana, Guatemala, India, Morocco, Peru, Russia, South Africa, Tansania, Thailand. I think there should be something interesting in at least one of those choices. And through fundraising (which is apparently how most of the volunteers get their money) cost shouldn't be an issue. Also you can go as groups, so if anyone else in interested (nudge nudge, Becca, Brittany, Derek nudge nudge) that would be interesting as well. Also interesting to note that if you have a particular field of interest and proficiency that is not noted in any of the regular programs (photography art and writing were some examples) then they will work with you to find you a suitable way to use those skills while you're there. Also they take you sightseeing and to cultural landmarks, museums, etc. Basically it sounds like any other time abroad, except you're volunteering as well, and can choose how long you stay for.

HMMMM.

Anyway, it's an option, and I like to keep my options open.

the Peace Corps is not an option because I really can't commit to 2 years in the same place for the same organization. Plus CCS seems more geared toward students and 20-somethings, although absolutely anyone can participate. But 2-12 weeks seems a bit more manageable than 2 years, and also as a non-profit and non-U.S. Government funded program they're not funded by any specific country and have no ulterior motives etc.