Description

Whether you are volunteering on a gap year, between semesters, or for a career break or vacation, if you want to get your hands dirty and see physical results from your international volunteer work then our Community Building Project may just be for you.

Building volunteers work in Cape Town in the townships of Lavender Hill, Grassy Park, and Imizamo and are involved in helping to construct buildings for local orphanages and care centers in the communities we work with.

Volunteers work alongside local workers assisting with all levels of building and construction. The buildings are made using an eco-bag system. Eco-bags are filled with sand and using this technique it is possible to build better quality houses for less money, while also using Earth-friendly materials.

These construction techniques are simple to master and are ideal for sites with limited facilities. No electricity is required at the site and only minimal amounts of water and cement are necessary.

Many of the projects also focus on improving existing structures that are in inadequate. Our volunteers work to make big improvements, whether by building a new classroom for a kindergarten or a new bedroom at an orphanage.

Highlights

The volunteer work will vary, but includes digging a foundation in the sand, mixing and pouring cement by shovel and wheelbarrow, placing cinderblocks to build walls and rooms, building a roof, or putting the finishing coat of paint on the completed house.

The building work takes place early in the morning and late in the afternoon so you'll have plenty of time to get involved in township life. Each site is overseen by a qualified builder from the community. This person will help volunteers and homeowners with the construction process.

You do not need previous building experience to take part in this project. Anyone who does have any relevant skills will be very welcome and will be able to take on a more specialized role. All volunteers should be in shape and prepared for working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.

Type of Programs

• Community Service / Volunteerism

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

please go to our website for prices.

Cost Includes:

• Emergency evacuation services
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Medical insurance
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Registration fees
• Written materials abroad
• Written materials pre-departure

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

• Building Maintenance
• Community Development
• Community Organizing
• Homelessness
• Population Issues

Typical Volunteer

Open-minded, eager to explore, help, and learn.

Age Range

16-70

This Program is open to

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

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

10 days

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

Projects Abroad's Mission Statement

As part of the global economy, Projects Abroad helps create local employment wherever we send volunteers. Employing local staff overseas and using their talents and knowledge is important to us. This local knowledge and support enables the organization to channel the skills of the volunteers from more affluent countries to regions around the world where they are needed. Volunteers also learn from their placements and the people they meet, and they gain experience in a chosen field. In the 21st century, we believe this mutual respect is what cultural exchange is all about.

Year Founded

1992