How can I volunteer to help in Myanmar and China in 2008?

Question: How can I volunteer to help in Myanmar and China in 2008?

Answer: In the wake of any major natural disaster, a natural inclination is the wish to hurry there and help -- however, it's not usually a quick process to begin organizing for rebuilding. You may eventually be able to volunteer in Myanmar and China to aid victims after the 2008 destruction in Myanmar following Cyclone Nargis and the May earthquake centering in China's Sichuan province, but in the meantime, About.com's writers living in Southeast Asia and China have put together lists of charities and relief organizations on the ground in Myanmar and China, and you can get started with the volunteer possibility research or donate now if you like:

• About.com SE Asia: "Charities in Myanmar - Caring for Victims of Cyclone Nargis" -- great list of charities and organizations on the ground in Myanmar now
• About.com Guide China: "In the Wake of China’s Disastrous Earthquake, Travel to Area Not Advised"

You may also want to read a bit to understand Myanmar's politics, and why relief given to Myanmar cyclone victims may be slow in actually getting into the hands of those who need it:

• Mike Aquino (About.com's Guide to Southeast Asia): "Should the World Intervene in Myanmar?"
• MTV: "Myanmar: As The Cyclone Death Toll Soars, Why Aren't Relief Efforts Bigger?"

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity may be among the organizations ready for you to volunteer in China this summer. Putting any volunteer building efforts together anywhere isn't quick, but Habitat, for instance, says of central China that it's team is "...in the area now assessing needs and will work with local governments and other organizations to develop long-term reconstruction plans," and that "...once the area is cleared and building permits are in hand, Habitat will begin initial reconstruction in partnership with local authorities and partner organizations."

• Learn more about Habitat for Humanity and volunteer possibilities in Myanmar and China

Good luck and good giving.

_{Related reading: Pictures from Myanmar Cleanup -- Photos of Volunteers in Myanmar | Volunteering and Travel for Students}