How to Volunteer in Africa
- 1). Decide what kind of work interests you. It may be a no-brainer, such as working with children. But it may take some soul-searching to come up with the experience you're looking for.
- 2). Consider using an online database such as Volunteer in Africa, Volunteer 4 Africa, or Volunteer Africa to find current opportunities.
- 3). Pay membership fees to join certain databases, such as Volunteer 4 Africa. This allows you to access project information, such as location, contact person, age requirements, website, and commitment.
- 4). Join databases such as Volunteer in Africa for free. There, you'll find a list of organizations with volunteer opportunities in African cities such as Ghana and Madagascar.
- 5). Choose the opportunity that fits you the best. For instance, through Volunteer in Africa, you can care for abandoned children and orphans, cook for them, and show them love. Or, you can work alongside a teacher and teach children math, the English language, and other subjects. There's also a volunteer program that allows you to teach children sports such as basketball and baseball.
- 6). Volunteer at African newspapers and publications if you're a journalist. Law students can do volunteer work in the court system.
- 7). Sing or play instruments, or be an announcer, prayer warrior, or worship leader through a religious volunteer program in Africa. Christian ministers and pastors are needed to help with work as prophets, pastors, counselors, deliverance ministers, and preachers at churches in Ghana. There must be at least seven people in a group to participate, and they must be willing to work two days a week.
- 8). Pay a fee for many volunteer programs. The amount will depend on the organization and the length of time you're staying in Africa. For the fee, you receive the cultural experience, three meals a day, two bottles of water, lodging, airport transportation, orientation, and staff support.
- 9). Consider Volunteer Vacations, such as those offered through Global Service Corps. Upon arrival in Africa, you receive orientation, then go to your home stay. There you will volunteer in Tanzanian schools and orphanages, caring for and teaching English to underprivileged children.
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Upload a resume and one-page personal statement to be considered for a Volunteer Vacation through Global Services Corps. You must also print and mail an application form and deposit, which will be refunded if you're not selected as a volunteer.