Description

Volunteers are hugely welcome in the health care sector in Senegal where their assistance is required in clinics and hospitals. A wide spectrum of individuals can sign up to medical programs, including qualified medical personnel, medical students, pre-med students and unqualified individuals wishing to help in the health sector.

Volunteer placements are tailored, where possible, to the level of experience and the interests of the individual, as well as to the size and type of hospital or clinic best suited to their preferences. Opportunities exist in Nursing, Midwifery, Dentistry, Traditional Medicine and Physiotherapy.

Volunteers in Senegal's hospitals get the chance both to observe and assist doctors and nurses directly, which includes accompanying them on their rounds.

There will inevitably be a striking contrast between the medical service delivered in developed countries and that of developing countries. Volunteers in Senegal can encounter many medical conditions that have been left untreated over time and are in advanced stages. While this can be harrowing, it can also be instructive.

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 electing to go to Senegal have the advantage of staying with local Senegalese host families for the duration of their stay. Accommodation of this sort provides a unique opportunity to experience first hand what life is like for the ordinary people of the country, while gaining an insight into customs and values. Another benefit is having members of the host family on hand to offer help and to introduce you to the local area. Your host family will provide you with breakfast and dinner (and with three meals if you are at your accommodation during weekends).

* The format of the orientation depends on your arrival time. Most volunteers in Senegal tend to arrive in the evening. In this case, the orientation begins the following day with a talk at the volunteer house or local restaurant about the country, security, transport, the project and local health issues. You will be taken to the local town and shown around places of interest such a supermarkets, internet cafes and restaurants. You are also given time to change money, buy bottled water, snacks etc. If time allows, you will be taken to the project and have project orientation the same day.

* Volunteering in Senegal during the weekends is possible 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 the local town or travel further afield. Extended weekends can be arranged to allow for safari trips, but remember our local team need plenty of notice.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Prices starting at USD 400 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