These guys are right on the money with their advice. A few more things:
1). Don't confuse college with vocational training.
2). You don't need to spend big bucks to get a college degree. There is no need to spend $30-60k a year when there are many state supported schools you can attend at a fraction of the cost.
3). Not everything is an either/or. Some of the humanitarian items you mentioned can be accomplished while pursuing higher education. No reason you can't combine many of the things you mentioned to create your own education experience that also includes a college degree.
4). Learning is a lifelong experience. You don't have to knock out college in 8 consecutive semesters. Create your own experience that still produces a college degree. Recruiters will take notice.

Good Luck.