Voluntourism may seem like a cute righteous moniker but its end result is often detrimental [...]]]> In less then two weeks I take off on a once in a lifetime backpack trip to South East Asia and beyond. ONCE IN A LIFE TIME!  Those few words come with a ton of pressure and a lot of research.

Voluntourism may seem like a cute righteous moniker but its end result is often detrimental to local communities in developing nations. So how do you find the perfect balance?  A foreign adventure with exposure to developing nations, as well as an opportunity to help?

Not the easiest entity to find.

So, it was a treat when I stumbled upon PEPY, a beautifully transparent organization that basically did the research for me.

PEPY is a wonderful social venture that is comprised of two subdivisions working harmoniously together. PEPY Ride is an international non-governmental organization with idealistic views and realistic practices.

PEPY says  “we want to live in a world where everyone has access to quality education, increased health and environmental awareness. Through our programs in Cambodia, we are committed to making improvements in education, the environment, and health by investing in a local team of dedicated leaders and connecting them with the tools to help deliver the changes they want to see in the world”

How do they do it? With PEPY Tours. PEPY Tours offer custom or pre-packaged tours throughout Cambodia and South East Asia that help fund PEPY Ride. They believe ‘travel should be adventurous, educational and fun but also benefit local communities.’

Courtesy of www.pepytours.com

And so do I! I have just submitted my application to PEPY to tag along on their week long March Experiential Tour. The tour includes visits with their NGO partners, local schools, the usual tourist destinations and volunteer activities.

PEPY’s financial structure is clearly presented. In addition to a set fee, there is also a fundraising component of $500 that directly supports the non-profit/Pepy Ride.

In an effort to raise $500 I will be hosting a fundraiser Wednesday February 10^th, 2010.

Everyone’s invited to get PEPPED ABOUT PEPPY!

There is no mandatory donation for guests so don’t feel obligated to reach into your pockets if they’re feeling a little lighter then usual.