A few years ago, photojournalist Rachel Harbut saw a video on the Tsunami that struck Indonesia. Compelled by its message and images, she showed a friend the same video. Equally mesmerized, the friend proceeded to ask her what had happened. Given that the tsunami tragedy was one of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history, not to mention its status as headline news, Rachel was stunned. She says, “Not hearing about a natural disaster wiping over 230,000 people really says something about your world awareness, if not character.”

Inspired by the video, Rachel was on to something big. Her love for newspaper publication and passion for world awareness, left her no choice but to go digital. With just her laptop and YouTube, she started creating media presentations to promote world issues, educate her peers and encourage people to get involved. “I want people to know how fortunate we are in the U.S. and how easy it is for us to help. We have so many resources,” Rachel says.

Want to make a difference but don’t know where to start? Rachel suggests starting with the Internet. “It’s as simple as using Google. You’ll be amazed the little effort it takes to make a huge difference,” she says. Supporting an organization through online participation is an easy way to make a difference. Rachel recommends Nabuur.com, an online volunteering platform that links online volunteers with local communities in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Through the site, volunteers and local communities learn about each other, share ideas and find solutions to local issues.

Social networking sites are another great resource because they help establish connections and enable us to reach a global audience. Facebook Causes, for example, is a simple and easy way to make a difference in the world around us. “Use the Internet for good things and be a part of something that lasts. The Web’s resources can make a positive impact across the globe… it’s simple. It’s logical. It’s only fair,” stresses Rachel.

The crisis in Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is one of the world’s largest humanitarian crisis and an issue dear to Rachel. This global issue is responsible for  45,000 deaths each month and reigns supreme for committing the world’s worst crimes against children and women. Considered the most deadly war since WWII, the conflict in DRC is in need of urgent attention.

Have the desire to help but find it difficult to donate? “You can still help even during hard times and the recession. It’s not always about money. Spread knowledge and be compassionate about something other than yourself,” Rachel says.

Through videos, Rachel hopes to redirect the world’s attention and focus of the media. “Don’t be fooled by the Britney Spears image. There’s much more to life than that. For those that thrive on peace building or just willing to help, here’s an opportunity to make a big difference. Collaborate with others, encourage healthy ways of living and promote peace. Don’t forget to share it with the rest of the world,” Rachel advises.

Check out one of Rachel’s videos:

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If you’re planning to travel this summer, consider embarking on a volunteer vacation. Whether you hope to stay in the States or head abroad, programs are popping up all over that offer the opportunity to fulfill your wanderlust while contributing to humanitarian and environmental causes.

Many service excursions are structured to be all-inclusive and accommodate their participants, often at a high cost to the organization. Vacations usually include a place to stay, meals and transportation throughout your trip, the coordination of volunteer placement according to your goals — not to mention training as well as ensuring your comfort and safety. So, it’s no surprise that most volunteer vacations can actually be expensive, as groups pass the cost along to the volunteer. There are projects out there, however, offering lodging deals and discounts for a little beach clean-up or hiking trail repair.

To find a trip that best matches your altruistic tendencies and your budget, check out these select organizations:

Build. Take a Global Village trip and contribute to the building of a home, a community and new beginning for those in need — all while immersing yourself in the local culture of the urban or rural location of your choice. http://www.habitat.org/

Strengthen. Receive college credit or arrange a customized group experience to aid in the empowerment of individuals and communities through Amizade.  http://www.amizade.org/

Discover. The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation will put you to work for a day or a week on the trails of Montana where you will hike, explore and learn the skills necessary to manipulate the backcountry scenery along the Continental Divide.  http://www.bmwf.org/

Grow. Work on an organic farm from North America to the Middle East in exchange for lodging, meals and the opportunity to learn about farming, gardening and sustainable living.  http://wwoof.org/

Teach. For less of a tourist vacation and more of a true humanitarian expedition, work with the villagers of Nepal, Kenya, Mexico, Guatemala or Bolivia to end poverty by leading and connecting them with important resources and skills.  http://choicehumanitarian.org/

Even though you’ll be working instead of just relaxing, your soul will feel revived after giving back.

photo by dirk’s photography

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