volunteering solutions...3urjudp 5htxluhphqwv 7kh yroxqwhhu qhhgv wr eh dw ohdvw \hduv ri djh dw wkh...

$: Volunteering Solutions...3urjudp 5htxluhphqwv 7kh yroxqwhhu qhhgv wr eh dw ohdvw \hduv ri djh dw wkh wlph ri mrlqlqj wkh surmhfw 6krxog eh lq jrrg khdowk 0xvw eh prwlydwhg wr pdnh$
2015BROCHURE

KENYA

www.volunteeringsolutions.com

VOLUNTEER INTERN TRAVEL

ContentsCover01

Contents02

Masai Volunteer Project08

Your Accommodation09

Accomodation and Living10

Cost and Start Dates11

What am I Paying for?12

What am I Paying for? (Contd.)13

Things to Do14

Volunteer Story15

How to Apply - The Process16--18

Get in Touch19

Kenya and Nairobi Overview03

All Programs04

Teaching English Program05

Orphanage Project06

Healthcare Project07

VOLUNTEER


Kenya is a picturesque and cultural vibrant country in the Eastern

part of Africa. Its Indian Ocean coast lies between Somalia to the

north east and Tanzania to the south. Its other surrounding

countries are Ethiopia and South Sudan to the north and Uganda

to the west.

RenownedRenowned for its wildlife sanctuaries and the Masai tribe, a visit to

Kenya is a must for people looking for a glimpse of traditional

African culture and witnessing an exuberant variety of wildlife.

From the “Big 5” of Africa to the Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi, the

country has a lot on offer for travel enthusiasts.

AA different aspect to the beautiful country of Kenya is its poverty

stricken people and a region that needs better healthcare services

and increased employment opportunities. Volunteering Solutions

provides volunteering opportunities in Nairobi, the capital city of

Kenya in different fields that lets aspiring voluntourists get a

wholesome travel experience and also contribute in the

betterment of the lives of the Kenyan people.

VolSolVolSol also offers medical volunteering and internship projects for

medical students and professionals to get an an international

exposure in the medical field and also contribute in the healthcare

services of Kenya.

Kenya Trip Highlights

Enriching Cultural experience with the Masai Tribe in the Masai Volunteering Project

From Nairobi National Park to the Lake Nakuru National Park and its active volcano

Rock Climbing at Hell’s Gate National Park Near Nairobi

Meticulously Designed Medical Internship and Volunteer Opportunities

Weekend Add-On Tour At the Masai Mara National Park

Kenya and Nairobi Overview


03


Teaching English Program

Orphanage Project

Healthcare Project

Masai Volunteer Project

NAIROBI

Kenya - All Programs04

Program Requirements

The volunteer needs to be at least 17 years of age at the time of joining the project.

Should be in good health

Must be motivated to make a difference

Under this program, volunteers teach different subjects in Kenyan

elementary and high schools. We can also provide placements in

community schools and orphanage schools. Volunteers can teach

English, mathematics, science, geography, social sciences, history,

physical education, art and music and can lead their own class. All

assistance is provided to volunteers to lead their own classes. Please

note that Kenyan school holidays are in April, August and end of

NovemberNovember - December. No school teaching will be available during this

period. During this period volunteers will be placed in orphanage and

youth programs. This project is highly recommended for aspiring

teachers. No formal certification is required for this project.

I enjoyed working at the

project and placement where

I had the possibility to work.

My experience was very

good, I would repeat it if I

have the possibility to do it.

-Jose Manuel

Teaching English ProgramStarting from $270


05

Add On Tour

Masai Mara Tour ................................................... 2 Night/3 Days

Amboseli Camping ................................................... 2 Night/3 Days





Volunteering with children is undoubtedly the most rewarding

experience for anyone. We provide hands on work involvement with

the children. Volunteers will work in tandem with local staff and help

children in feeding, dressing, helping with homework and keeping

them active with games or other such activities. Aspiring volunteers

should be prepared to hear heartbreaking stories about the orphans

in these centers and also dedicatedly try to bring a difference in the

liveslives of these people. Volunteers can also assist the management team

in the proper functioning of the orphanage. Volunteering Solutions

provides orphanage volunteer placements in and around the city of

Nairobi as well as its suburban areas. We have a variety of placement

options wherein the volunteers lend their support and love for the

disadvantaged children. Some orphanage placements are also located

in Ngong region.

I was in Africa for two weeks

and I keep wishing I had

more time there. I met some

amazing people, had the

experience of a lifetime . I

have memories that are so

deeply engraved in me i

trultruly believe i will never ever

forget them.

-Peggy Bedoyan

Orphanage ProjectStarting from $270


06

Add On Tour

Samburu Camping ................................................... 2 Night/3 Days

Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru Tour ................................................... 3 Night/4 Days



Should either be pre-medical, medical, nursing student or a medical/nursing professional



The living conditions of the people living in slums and suburbs of

Nairobi is very poor which in turn leads to widespread diseases. The

healthcare facilities are neither easily accessible nor are of very good

standards. Our volunteers in the Healthcare program work in medical

clinics, dispensaries and hospitals in and around the city of Nairobi.

Volunteers' tasks vary and depend on the level of experience,

qualifications and medical training. This project is a very good

opportunityopportunity for medical students to get some “hands on” experience

and also for medical professionals to contribute in health care system

of Kenya.

I loved my placement. Most

of time they had enough

work for me to do, and when

they didn't, I started

cleaning rooms. Working

with orphans and Cleaning

burn wounds were highlights

frofrom my trip.

-Mitchell Standing

Healthcare ProjectStarting from $270


07

Add On Tour

Samburu Camping ................................................... 2 Night/3 Days

Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru Tour ................................................... 3 Night/4 Days





This program is recommended to those who are interested in knowing

more about the Masai people and their way of life. Our volunteers will

stay with Masai local people and families and learn the traditional way

of living as well as experience their culture. You will teach them English

language to improve their conversational English. Volunteers can also

get involved with community development work in the Masai region.

This project is highly recommended for cultural immersion and for all

aspiringaspiring travelers eager to make a difference in the lives of Masai.

Volunteers can join our program from any Monday of the month any

time of the year as our placements are open throughout the whole

year. Our programs are open for everyone and you don’t need any

special qualification to join our programs.

Masai Volunteer Project Starting from $270


08

Add On Tour

Masai Mara Tour ................................................... 2 Night/3 Days

Amboseli Camping ................................................... 2 Night/3 Days

Your Accommodation


09

Accommodation Highlights

Fully Furnished and Clean

Breakfast and Dinner included (except for the programs where it is mentioned separately)

Close to basic amenities

Volunteers in Kenya are provided accommodation in a Volunteer

house. The volunteer accommodation is located in Kikuyu ,

suburb of Nairobi where the participants stay in a well furnished

house. The volunteer house is taken care by local host mother

and has all the modern amenities available to ensure a

comfortable stay for the volunteers. Some of the facilities

available are showers and refrigerator in the kitchen and a lounge

areaarea for the volunteers. Volunteers are provided with 2

meals(Breakfast and Dinner) on weekdays and three meals during

the weekends. Typical meals include Ugali, Chapatti, Chai (Tea),

Bread and rice with vegetables and fruits. Also, volunteers joining

the Masai program stay in a masai family in Dol Dol region near

Nakuru. Any exceptions or special requirements should intimated

to the management before hand. Apart from the accommodation

and meals, cost of living is very low compared to western nations. and meals, cost of living is very low compared to western nations.

Anything between $50-$60 approximately would be enough to

last one full week. However, this amount may vary depending on

personal expenditure habits.

The homes allotted are close to useful amenities like, banks,

ATMs, money changers, restaurants, cafes and shopping centers.

All placements are around 10 - 30 minutes from the homes and

volunteers travel to the placements everyday and come back

home in the evenings. Information about the amenities and local

markets would also be shared with the volunteers during their

orientation session. An exhaustive pre-departure kit is provided to

thethe volunteers after they apply to prepare them well for the

project and share all relevant details about the city.

During the free time volunteers can visit the local markets, visit


Accommodation and Living10


Cost and Start Dates11

1 Week 2 Weeks 3 Weeks 4 Weeks 5 Weeks 6 Weeks 7 Weeks 8 Weeks Program Name Extra Weeks

$390$270 $490 $590 $690 $790 $890 $990 $110Teaching, Orphanage, Medical and Masai

Cost

Please Note: -An application fee of $225 is charged over and above the program fee as an application payment.

Airfare

Mobile connection and recharge

Entry fees to sightseeing places (if not included in program)

Transportation and local travel

Visa Fee

Personal expenses

Return Airport DropReturn Airport Drop

Expenses other than program fee

Program Start Dates for Masai & Teaching Program

Program Start Dates for Orphanage & Medical Program

Kenya Program Costs (in USD)

Most people are surprised to hear that they have to pay to volunteer abroad. What they often do not realize is that there

are significant administrative costs involved to arrange for a worthwhile volunteer abroad placement. Volunteering Solu-

tions is not supported by any government funding and runs its programs entirely from the fee that volunteers pay to take

part in the volunteer programs. Volunteering Abroad, involves incurring of many costs such as food, accommodation,

transportation, transfers, project selection etc. The program fee charged by us, goes into providing you all these services.

The money that you pay to us is distributed at various stages to provide you a meaningful volunteer abroad experience.The money that you pay to us is distributed at various stages to provide you a meaningful volunteer abroad experience.

VOLSOL Program Cost IncludesAdvertising Online/Offline Credit Card processing charges

In country maintenance of offices, vehicles etc.Staff recruitmentVolunteer recruitmentMaintaining office and other expenses

Salaries for staffNGO financial helpCommunication with volunteers and partners, by phone/email etc.International travel done by our staff to monitor projects and attend local meetings with partnersWebsite maintenance.Government taxes.


What am I paying for?12

Administration Cost

In Country SupportProject Development

Project Support &Field Cost

Food & Accommodation

It is necessary for an organization to employ full time staff to recruit and manage volunteers. There is lot of work that goes

side by side ensuring that you are supported before and during your program. We are dedicated to make your volunteering

abroad a memorable experience and ward off of all possible hunches at every steps. Our administration cost is 28% of the

total cost which include advertising, staff salary, website maintenance, taxes, volunteer recruitment and other expenses.

The application processing fee is part of your administrative costs, unlike many other volunteer travel company we do not

chargecharge any additional credit card processing fee. These companies can charge as much as 6% on your application fee taking

it to a difference of almost $100 extra. We have a flat rate and that is what we charge.

Administration

You may be endowed with exceptional skills and acumen in your area of expertise but to figure out your exact role in the

placement agency and to gain insights of its operations require training. To know cultural practices and etiquettes is of sub-

lime importance to carry out your tasks. So you need someone who could impart training and dispel your doubts at every

step, obviously he/she doubles as your friend and trainer.

Training and orientation

We charge for food and accommodation based on your preferences. You may decide to do home stay or group accommo-

dation or relish the cuisines cooked by host family and pay them. You may cook for yourself if you find it economical or your

placement organization may provide you lunch. You have plethora of options to choose from and charges are determined

accordingly. Host organization provides a safe and welcoming atmosphere for the volunteers. Food and accommodation

charges cover 40% of your total expenditure.

Food and accommodation

Volunteer service organization often employs in-country staff to provide local support and to make your volunteering

abroad experience memorable. As long as you are volunteering outside which may take up to six months, our staff is con-

tinuously working for you behind the screen. So we pay them from program fees we receive despite other sources like

grants and donations.

NothingNothing can be more discomforting than to struggle for getting basic services like healthcare, banking or even visa review-

ing in a foreign land that otherwise would have been comparatively less difficult in an English speaking country. As a volun-

teer, you have not been tied up to the agency only but you may roam around the city to watch historical places, zoo, movies

etc. and should have total access to everything in order to distress yourself. VolSol has incredible in-country support

(around 12%) to ensure your trip runs smoothly.

In country support

The most important part of the volunteering fees is on the project which you have chosen. Program fees help fund the proj-

ect activities and resources. Thus organizations need paid staff member to ensure continuity of your program and adminis-

trative duties. Project development involved 11% of the total program fee.

Project Development

What am I paying for? (Contd.)13

An overwhelmingly diverse culture endowed with beautiful landscape and enchanting wildlife, Kenya is truly a traveler’s

paradise. One of the most bustling town of Kenya is Nairobi. Pick your favorite things to do while volunteering in the capital

city.

African Elephant, Black Rhinoceros, Cape Buffalo, African Lion and African Leopard are the big five of Africa. Visit the royals

of Africa at the Nairobi National Park and pay your respects. This activity has to be an “absolute must” feature in your

itinerary.

Pay a visit to the “Big 5” of Africa

Maasai Market in Nairobi is one of the most famous markets of Kenya and can be visited to buy local Kenyan handicrafts

and accessories. Kenyatta Market, in another shopper’s paradise in Nairobi which is well known for its African souvenirs.

Visit the bustling local markets

Bass thumping music, tv screens and shouting touts adds to the thrilling matatu culture in Nairobi. Get affordable rides

across the town in Matatu and experience the local Kenyan Fervour.

Experience Thrill Rides on a Matatu

Well, you can enjoy some ice cool skating in the hot and humid town of Nairobi. The ice rink, located at the Panari Sky

Center is well known throughout Africa for some fine ice skating.

How about some ice skating in Nairobi ?

The Nairobi Animal Orphanage in Kenya lets you visit a wide variety of animals and also adopt one or two at a small price

to help in animal welfare.

Adopt an animal at the animal orphanage

Home to many kinds of reptiles, you can visit the Nairobi park to witness a wide variety of wildlife and also know about

them in great detail.

“Reptilophillia” at the Nairobi Snake Park

From the well known Carnivore Restaurant, to Indian bajias, ethiopian food and of course the local street food, Nairobi has

everything for a foodie. The Smart Village Restaurant Nairobi is a good option to eat in.

Feast on the Kenyan Food

The Kenyan nightlife is vibrant, fun and diverse. From affordable bar options to upscale options, one can find good clubbing

opportunities in the capital. However, it is advisable to not venture alone and drink to a safe limit. You can also try some

adventure activities like nature hiking, biking and riding amidst the Ngong Hills of Kenya. Contact the project coordinator

for more details and arrangements.

Explore Kenyan Nightlife and Take Up Adventure Activities


Things to Do in Kenya

14

Trip Notes

Volunteers should be flexible and should try to adjust to the Kenyan style of living.

15


Jacob Custer is from Washington, DC and currently recruits quality teachers for

a network of schools working to close the achievement gap that exists among

races in the United States. He is 26 years old and has a bachelors degree from

Michigan State University and a masters degree in education from The George

Washington University. He volunteered twice in Kenya in 2010 and once in

Delhi, India in 2011 with Volunteering Solutions.

Meet Jacob Custer

Here in America, I work in education reform and my everyday work involves making sure that every student in American, regardless of

race or background, receives a quality education. Unfortunately, there is a huge divide in America among white and black students. I am

working to close that gap here and assure everyone receives the education they deserve. I feel as if my work is a service to both my

country and the fight for equality.

ThisThis work has led me to want to help out beyond my country's borders. While a lot of disparity and inequality exists here in the USA, it

also exists in many countries around the world. I chose to volunteer in Kenya and India (and soon Vietnam) because I want to give back

and make some sort of impact--no matter how big or small. I have a passion for travel and learning about other cultures, and I am able

to bridge that passion with my passion to make this world a better place by volunteering abroad. I think I will continue visiting other

countries and volunteering for the rest of my life.

Why did you decide to volunteer abroad with Volunteering Solutions in Kenya and India?

Kenya and India are very different places, but both are places where the people are very warm and welcoming, and unfortunately, a need

exists for an increase in the quality of life and education of its citizens. Kenya was unique because there is a strong sense of community

and a deep warmth to people. The people of Kenya work extremely hard working and are really dedicated to making their life, and often

those around them, better and prosperous. India is a very busy place full of people who are excited to see you there. People from many

backgrounds and religions live in India, and are very open to visitors. I enjoyed working with children in a street shelter and helping them

with math and other gateway skills they needed support with. Indians are very peaceful and who are always on the go.with math and other gateway skills they needed support with. Indians are very peaceful and who are always on the go.

What made this volunteer abroad experience unique and special?

I continue to want to make the world a better place, both in my home and abroad. My experience volunteering has really opened up my

eyes to the immense amount of need in other countries, and has really grounded me in knowing how much privilege I have and how im-

portant it is to both give back and not take things for granted. Now that my eyes are open, I can work to help open other eyes and make

sure I continue to be part of the solution.

How has this experience impacted your future?

Volunteer Story

How to apply - The process16

From the drop down select either Volunteer Abroad, Intern Abroad or Summer programs abroad.

If you are already familiar with the website and are visiting just to apply ignore this step and simply click on the Apply Now button at the

end of the drop down header.

Where it will ask you to create a login and password for your My Account login. Your email id would be treated as the username or user

id. Click on the proceed to next step button. The next step button will take you to a form that you have to fill to pay your application fee

of $225. This application fee will book your seat in the placement until you pay the entire program fee amount. If we fail to provide you

the placement we will refund you the money.

**Points to Heed

**If you are a past volunteer and already have my account user id and password then login to your my account section directly.

**If you are a returning volunteer within a year, then you do not need to pay the application fee again. **If you are a returning volunteer within a year, then you do not need to pay the application fee again.

01

When you click on the apply now button, you will get a window like this:

02



Fill out the forms marked 2 to 4 and submit application, it will be redirected to your payment gateway, where you can make the payment.

If you make the application fee payment now, your My account login would be activated as soon as we receive the payment. In case of

any glitches if your My account login is not activated, please inform us and we will do it manually.

You will receive a Thank you mail for booking the application or making your my account

login. You will get this email irrespective of full payment made or not.

03

04

This email would be followed by a Welcome mail and a community email with platforms to

help you connect with our past volunteers. If you are using gmail, please check your

promotions folder or spam folder and mark them not spam and shift them to your inbox.

Actively participate in VolSol Facebook page and Groups and also join the social

community made by volunteers, that will help you better prepare for the trip.

05



One month prior to your booking you will get your pre departure booklet. The pre-

departure booklet would contain all the details about your project and project location.

While on the project, we will send you an email to check on you, whether you are doing fine or not. You can send your pictures, blogs or

videos or anything related to your ongoing work to us and we will share it with other prospective volunteers.

After the completion of your project, we send you a feedback form, fill this form out and help us improve our services.

06

If your placement is confirmed you will get an email from us stating the same, along with

the final payment due amount.

You can pay your program fee from your my account section or from payment page. The

links for the same would be provided in the email. Payment details would be updated on

your my account page.

05

Joe(Country Director - Kenya)

Joe has been working with Volunteering Solutions since the company was established in 2007. He holds

a Masters in International Economic Law from University of Warwick , United Kingdom. He coordinates

all the arrangements for the volunteers in Kenya to ensure their safe and comfortable stay. He holds a

considerable personal volunteering experience in both Kenya and UK. He loves travelling to different

parts of Africa, playing tennis and swimming.

Know your coordinator


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