Info

On this Care project, you'll work with some of Kenya's poorest and most disadvantaged children, providing them with care and support, as well as informal education and any other assistance that is needed.

There are many, many children living in Kenya that have been orphaned by the HIV/AIDS virus and by Malaria. These children are often left without surviving relatives that can look after them and with no means to look after themselves. We work with a number of different orphanages with young children through to 18 year olds. You may help with all ages. If you prefer a specific age group, we will try and arrange that for you.

The main objective of these projects is to improve the lives of street children in any way possible. Your work helps the carers with the day to day running of the homes/centres, as well as assisting with some basic care of the children. The other important aspect of the placement is to give attention to many of the children who have come from very traumatic backgrounds by interacting with them in an informal setting. Anyone with any medical knowledge would also be greatly appreciated at the Centres' dispensaries.

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN FROM DOING THIS PROJECT:

* An exciting, never-to-be-forgotten adventure into Africa and the many diverse cultures in Kenya.
* The enormous satisfaction of helping disadvantaged children and knowing that you made a difference to them.
* New skills, more confidence, a greater understanding of a different culture, invaluable personal and professional development.
* An entry on your CV or résumé that will put you head and shoulders above most others in the job market
* And best of all ... an unforgettable experience!

"A lot of the volunteer work at our orphanage and other places is being done by gap year students – the most fantastic bunch of people who deserve so much praise for what they’re doing." Steve and Jennifer Chilingirian

WORK CONTENT:
Generally the type of work you will be allocated will depend to an extent on your own abilities and capabilities, which is understandable given that you will be dealing with children’s health and safety. You will normally sit down with the supervisor when you arrive to set up an informal timetable for your placement. The hours may vary, but normally you will work from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m., from Monday to Friday with the option of working weekends. You may also prefer to work mornings or afternoons only, which can be catered for.

It is difficult to be specific about your day-to-day, but you will get a good general feel of the orphanage by working and/or observing. The level of education of the children is generally very poor so you should have discussions with your supervisor to ascertain the best use of your time and skills with the different groups of children. But the most important thing you can do is to give the children lots of love, care and attention.

You'll be given help and direction from the staff, but your workload will depend on you and what you put into it. Your work as a volunteer may include:

* Preparing food for the children and helping them eat.
* General cleaning, washing dishes, etc.
* Helping the permanent staff care for the children.
* Bathing the children and washing their clothes
* Organizing and facilitating games and plays for the children.
* Playing with the children - here you can use your imagination and involve them in lots of different activities
* Helping some of the children with their homework.
* Getting involved in drawing and painting or even music if you have skills in that area.
* Working with the younger children/babies – helping to change them, feed and bath them.

If you are interested and feel you have the ability, you may also be asked to help with arranging fundraising for the institute.

What will the local community gain from your assistance?

As a result of your volunteer work, the orphanage, the workers and the society at large will benefit directly or indirectly by having the opportunity to interact with you and all our volunteers, thus learning about foreign cultures and the wider world

They will have access to a free workforce and invaluable service which you provide them as a volunteer.

Their traditional knowledge and skills in care work are supplemented with initiatives, skills and ideas which they will get from you and all our volunteers. Fresh eyes and a different way of doing things can be of tremendous benefit to them.

Duration

From 2 weeks to 1 year, subject to visa requirements. Available all year round. Our placements are very flexible, you can choose your own start and finish dates.

Start Dates

Flexible start and finish dates you choose. Our placements are flexible and can be tailored to match your preferences. For availability please contact the office.

Costs / Benefits

Costs vary depending on length of placement, but starts at £675 for two weeks. You can participate for up to one year, subject to visa requirements.

Included is full support from the moment of booking and throughout your placement to your return home. There are support staff 24/7 in all our destinations worldwide and a 24 hour emergency international telephone line direct to the Head Office. All meals are provided, unless otherwise stated. Accommodation is provided (whether a rented house, a hotel/hostel, homestay, apartment or flat).

You’ll be met at the nearest airport on your arrival by our in-country manager who will take you to your accommodation and give you a full induction into the area. He/she will also be on call 24/7 and you’ll see them frequently.

Pre-departure you’ll receive comprehensive information about every aspect of your placement and necessary preparations, ranging from what to pack, to visa information, to what to do on your weekend travel in the country. Your safety, well being and happiness throughout your placement are our primary concerns and we will keep in touch with you throughout. International flights not included.

Requirements

No qualifications or previous experience are necessary, just a good dose of enthusiasm! Everyone is welcome on a Travellers programme, whether gap year, undergraduate, on a career break - or even retired! From 17 years old upwards, and all nationalities.