Working at an Orphanage
Program DescriptionFor orphaned children one of the most beneficial things for them is to be able to have access to education as it will provide more opportunities for them in the future once they have to make their own way in the world. Resources are often scarce so if they have access to a teacher it will be a great advantage to them.
Depending on your own expertise and interests, you can also teach drawing, songs, music, dance, cooking, or any number of activities, and generally just spend quality time with the children.
Some orphanages can provide accommodation for volunteers; alternatively you can stay with a local host family and work at the orphanage during the day/evening. Your duties will include many things, basically taking care of the needs of the children, teaching them, helping with cooking, getting them ready for school. Consequently it can be challenging but also one of the most rewarding experiences you can have, as you are improving the lives of the children.
Your day will consist of teaching for a few hours in the morning and in the evening, and in the afternoon looking after the general wellbeing of the children. Alternatively in the afternoon you can go to the local school and teach there instead of staying at the orphanage.
Most orphanages also welcome assistance from volunteers for the organizations themselves. This involves working with staff to develop marketing, fundraising, and program strategies for the orphanage.
Working at the orphanage home includes: Helping children with their school work, encouraging the children, teaching them English and other activities.
Requirements - There are no specific requirements for the program. The best things you can have are patience and a genuine desire to teach and help the children; plus a sense of humor!
Program Dates - Are very flexible, the minimum time for the program is one week and the maximum length of stay is 5 months.
Suggestions - Depending on the subject, volunteers can bring along teaching materials such as picture books, instruments, flash cards, art supplies, and songs. It\'s also useful to have sweets or chocolates to reward the children when they do well in class.
Accommodations - A simple room with a bed. We advise you to bring a sleeping bag and mosquito net with you or you can always buy here which is 2-3 times cheaper than back home.
Meals - Breakfast occurs at 6:30am and consists of a cup of tea and biscuits. Lunch is served at 11:30am and is usually dal/bhat (rice, lentils, and vegetables). Dinner is at 4:30 pm and is also dal/bhat. The food is very simple but also extremely tasty and filling. Additional food such as biscuits can be bought at the local shop if you should still be hungry.
Location - Kathmandu, Chitwan, Pokhara
Volunteer Programs
When I organized my trip to Nepal, little did I know what an enriching
cultural experience I had in store for myself. As a student of
sociology, I was drawn to the cultural differences in Nepal, as well as
the opportunity to help others. Traveling...
Jill Rifkind
Comborne
UK
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