Description

South India: famous for its tropical jungles, white beaches, magnificent temples and a fantastic vegetarian cuisine, is everything you've imagined and more. Explore this unique region and its fascinating culture through ELI's extraordinary volunteer opportunities. We can place you with the most respected humanitarian organizations throughout South India. Choose from working with orphans, the mentally disabled or the elderly. Share your skills and experience with women's empowerment groups, join historic preservation efforts, get hands-on experience health clinics, hospitals and schools or tell us what you'd like to do and we'll try to custom-design a volunteer adventure just for you.

ELI's base in Chennai (formerly Madras) includes outstanding in-country support from English-speaking coordinators with years of experience in volunteerism. You may choose from a variety of destinations throughout the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala, described by MSNBC as "lovely, incredibly cheap and one of the most peaceful places on the planet." The whole region is considered safe for travel by Westerners and English is widely spoken so language barriers are minimal. Discover this exotic destination, and discover yourself within its rich culture. We promise an unforgettable experience.

Highlights

Participants in India experience India's vibrant culture in one of the most exciting parts of the country. The rich cultural heritage of South India is evident in the colorful festivals, elaborate temples and daily rituals.

ELI participants work with local organizations and have a rare opportunity to gain insight into the day to day workings of Indian organizations. All ELI programs are set up on a completely individual basis according to the interests and skills of each participant and the current needs of the local organizations we work with.

Qualifications

Participants must be 18 years old, enthusiastic, and adventurous!

Intern Types

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Costs vary. Please contact us for details

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

* Pre-departure Support: ELI's expert staff will be happy to assist you with planning your trip

* Airport Pickup: Participants are met when they arrive at the airport in Chennai and brought to the program accommodation

* In-Country Orientation: Each program starts with a 2-3 day orientation to help participants get their feet on the ground and able to navigate South India

* In-country Staff Support: ELI's India coordinator has years of experience working with Volunteers, Interns, and Study Abroad Students. He is very resourceful and on call 24/7 in case of emergency.

* Accommodations: Participants stay in housing associated with the project and are provided with three basic vegetarian meals a day.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

There is no typical ELI volunteer. We work with people from all over the world and a variety of backgrounds. ELI has placed volunteers ranging in age from 18-81. Successful volunteers are flexible, upbeat, energetic, and inquisitive.

Age Range

18-70

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

ELI-Experiential Learning International's Mission Statement

ELI's full name, Experiential Learning International, reflects our philosophy. We believe that the most compelling life lessons come through experience, and that international experiences are among the most profound influences on our sense of self and our view of the world. ELI facilitates flexible international learning programs for independent travelers by partnering with local organizations to give participants the opportunity to experience and contribute to sustainable ongoing local projects throughout the world.

Year Founded

2001