Description

Our partner's purpose is to provide a model for experimental sustainable living in the West Bank. They strive to re-purpose all the rubbish they create, to develop and use alternate forms of energy, and to live using only the resources which are available to them. Living conditions might seem "uncomfortable" to the western world because emphasis is put on living sustainably rather than living luxuriously.

For example, only compost toilets (not western style flush toilets) are used. There is no TV, fridge, washing machine, or dishwasher on site. There is no central heat/air conditioning system. Another issue to consider is water. Because of water shortages inside of Palestine, volunteers (as well as local staff!) will not be able to shower daily. During the summer months, a weekly shower might not even be possible. We know this sounds tough, but this is quite normal for local people who struggle with about one-third of the daily water allowance that the UN recommends.

Instead of attempting to gain more access to water, our local partner strives to re-examine how much water they use, why they use it, and how to better conserve it. The idea of better resource-use is central to the local teams mission.

Volunteers will do everything from gardening, irrigation, construction, learning and teaching permaculture techniques, working with local Palestinian communities, as well as cooking and cleaning alongside local staff. In summer months volunteers can choose to sleep in the guest house or in a nearby cave.

Please note that volunteers will need to find their own way to the farm. This can be organised by way of a taxi, which will cost about USD 85 from the airport to the farm. Or by shuttle followed by a 10 minute walk and a 10 minute taxi, which will cost about USD 20 in total.

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.

* Accommodation for volunteers is self-catering in the form of a fully furnished apartment with either two or three bedrooms. No more than two occupants in total are assigned to one room. Ample breakfast ingredients are supplied, including cereal and eggs. Other meals are provided as follows: sandwiches for lunch accompanied by the hummus, as well as other traditional dips or falafel. For longer term volunteers, on at least one occasion a traditional Palestinian evening meal will be provided.

* Upon your arrival in the Palestinian Territories, ideally during a weekend, you will spend time with staff being settled in and finding out about your volunteering in Palestine, local surroundings and flat-sharers. Representatives will fill you in on local customs, safety, rules and recommendations and, of course, what to expect from your volunteering experience. You should get to see the local area, get to meet other volunteers in Palestine and plan how some of your free time is to be spent while in the Palestinian Territories.

Qualifications

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old at the start of the placements (unless accompanied by an adult). A good command of English is required. Arabic is, of course, a bonus, but certainly not required.

In any case we recommend volunteers take the inexpensive Arabic lesson provided by our local partner.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Prices as low as USD 300 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, a walking tour of Bethlehem and Jerusalem, orientation and in-country support on call 24/7. Airport pick-up from Tel Aviv airport is available for USD 30 (Euro 23) (but is free for volunteers spending more than a month on a program).

Arabic lessons cost USD 15 per class but the cost can be shared among up to 4 volunteers, if numbers on the project permit.

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

• Apartment/Flat

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