You may have noticed a new button the lefthand side of this blog that says “Feedback.” It’s a pretty straightforward ask: we’d love to know how we’re doing. La Vida Idealist was created in August with the goal of better supporting you, from helping you take that first s[...]
Author Archive
$1 Million for Idealist – Vamos!
This post was originally published on Idealist.org by blog editor Julia Smith. By now you’re probably aware that Chase and Facebook are running a big contest this week, which will result in one nonprofit organization winning $1 million, and five runners-up winning $100,000 each. With your hel[...]
Helping Haiti: Things to Consider
Originally published on the Idealist.org homepage, this post has three sections: Donations; Volunteering Locally to Support Efforts in Haiti; and Volunteering in Haiti. Idealist staff Jeremy MacKechnie, Amy Potthast, Erin Barnhart, Eric Fichtl, Scott Stadum, and Julia Smith contributed. The outpouri[...]
All-Female Transport in Mexico
Growing up as a tomboy, I loathed the color pink. I associated it with baking and kittens and babies and lipstick – every stereotype as a woman that even then I subconsciously knew I couldn’t stomach. Even though I now love the color pink (and I don’t wear make-up or feel affection[...]
What’s New in 2010
This past August, we excitedly launched the blog you are reading right now. This was the first time we attempted to pull people’s experiences into one blog, and to be honest, we weren’t sure how it was going to go. But because we have such an awesome team of devoted bloggers – who[...]
How to Volunteer Abroad: A One Minute Explanation
Thinking about venturing into the world of international service? But not sure where to start? Check out this one-minute how-to! Erin Barnhart, Idealist.org’s Director of Volunteerism Initiatives and mastermind behind our International Volunteer Resource Center, gives a brief step-by-step gui[...]
Can You Spare a Vote?
This post was originally published on the Idealist.org homepage by blog editor Julia Smith. Idealist has the chance to win $25,000 or more. If you have a Facebook account, will you take a moment to vote for us? http://apps.facebook.com/chasecommunitygiving/charities/1147901 If you haven’t alr[...]
International Volunteer Day Event in Buenos Aires, December 4
Do volunteers really make an impact in communities? What lessons learned and best practices do volunteer coordinators have to share? What are the benefits and challenges of working with international volunteers? If you’re up to discussing these questions and more, join Idealistas.org on Decemb[...]
Write for Us!
Are you about to embark on an altruistic adventure in Latin America? Or currently in the region and involved in your community? If the answer to either of these questions is “yes,” join us and share your experiences! If you’re a frequent reader of this blog, then you know that La V[...]
Meet-Up for Volunteers in Buenos Aires on November 11!
Every year, more and more expats are settling down in Buenos Aires, Argentina, whether for a few months or an indefinite period of time. Most come to hone their Spanish skills, some to perfect their tango moves, others to study at a university or simply embark on a new adventure. Whatever their reas[...]



