Description

The population of Usa River includes many widows and abandoned women, as a result of HIV. Social stigma means that on many occasions a woman who admits to having HIV will be abandoned by her husband, although it may be from him that she contracted the infection. Often, the community turns its back on such women and their children, who will then have to fend for themselves. Lacking skills, these abandoned women are rarely able to find jobs.

Our local partner's goal is to eliminate the social stigma associated with HIV/AIDS through social and sex education, and to provide the widows with job skills so that they can support themselves and their families and be re-integrated into the community.

Currently 45 women are enrolled on the one-year program, which focuses on learning about agriculture. This helps them understand how to grow vegetables from seeds in order to sell the produce for a profit; to construct animal housing and purchase chicks and piglets to be raised and sold. Financial skills are also taught. By the end of their year on the program, the women have money in the bank and are able to stand on their own feet financially.

The following year we accept a new group of 45 women who are fostered and mentored by the group that just graduated. This creates a supporting community in which women can work together to generate revenue and put their children through school.

For this project volunteers are sought who have experience with small business or project management. We also need volunteers who can teach personal finance, agriculture and sexual education. We also welcome volunteers in Tanzania who lack experience but have a desire to learn.

Highlights

* Love Volunteers is a not-for-profit organisation that provides fun, rewarding, safe and affordable volunteering opportunities in developing countries around the world.

* Since Love Volunteers is a not-for-profit organization, it is one of the most affordable ways to help out in a developing country while being immersed in the local culture.

* Volunteers stay with host families. The volunteer rooms are comfortable and may be shared with one or two other volunteers in Tanzania. Accommodation is usually within walking or cycling distance of the project or a short bus ride away.

* Having flown into Kilimanjaro International Airport, or having arrived by bus at Arusha's Central Bus Station, volunteers are picked up by our partners. They receive an introduction to all of our partner's projects, are helped to settle in. This includes help with orientation around the towns of Usa River and Arusha and with the purchasing of various essential items such as mobile phones, food, as well as with the location of internet cafes. Support staff are on hand 24/7. Orientation can also include some Swahili lessons, if desired.

* Volunteering in Tanzania during the weekends is possible alongside local teams or you may visit orphanages where the children will be delighted to be entertained. Otherwise, this is your time to relax, perhaps just chilling at home or you could arrange to explore Arusha or travel further into Tanzania. Extended weekends can be easily arranged to allow for safari trips, if so desired, or expeditions farther afield.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Prices as low as USD 315 for 2 weeks

Cost Includes:

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

Program Fees Include:

Includes accommodation, food, an airport pick-up, orientation and 24/7 in-country support

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Other
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

48 hours

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad

Love Volunteers's Mission Statement

We are a not-for-profit organization that provides fun, rewarding, safe and affordable volunteering opportunities in developing countries around the world. Whether you're planning a week helping a local community as you travel around a country, six months learning the local language, or putting your gap year to good use, Love Volunteers has a program that will give you the best possible experience.

Year Founded

2009