Description

From world-famous vineyards to miles of coastline, bustling cosmopolitan cities, desert, mountains, wildlife parks and more, South Africa is a vast country with widely varying landscapes and an equally diverse population. A former Dutch colony, South Africa has 11 official languages, but English is the most commonly spoken language in commercial and public life.

Compared to its neighbors, South Africa enjoys a strong economy, a well-developed infrastructure and modern amenities. Wine and gold are the countrys biggest exports. While, domestically, South Africa is still healing the wounds of apartheid, the country is a major player in regional politics. Despite this, many South Africans still live below the poverty line. As with many sub-Saharan African countries, South Africa is also suffering from the AIDS pandemic. As a volunteer in South Africa, you can support health and education initiatives aimed at raising the local standard of living.

*Sports Coaching Quest:
Volunteers play and coach sports for at-risk youth players who are passionate about football/soccer, cricket, rugby, hockey, netball, tennis, basketball, swimming and more. As part of the program's life-skills curriculum, volunteers promote good citizenship and health awareness.

*Social Quest:
Volunteers can work in a number of social projects including teaching, arts and crafts, or orphanage care work projects. Volunteers use creativity and compassion to broaden opportunities for sick, disabled or underprivileged children in the Port Elizabeth area.

Highlights

United Planet's Volunteer Abroad programs are 100% cultural immersion experiences. United Planet Quest programs run year-round and are available to individuals and groups of all ages, skill levels and nationalities. We have no doubt it will be life-changing and provide lasting memories.

*Visit to Kragga Kama Game Reserve  Port Elizabeth

*Authentic evening meal under the stars at the Bushcamp Boma  Port Elizabeth

*Traditional dances and drumming performance and workshop

*Living with volunteers from around the world

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support

Credit Available

yes

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

People of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to join us. We are extremely proud of our international volunteers. Each and every volunteer strives to be a good ambassador through their flexibility, courage, open-mindedness, positive spirit, and genuine desire to make a difference. To help prepare you for the predictable and unpredictable aspects of your time abroad, you will be offered comprehensive pre-departure training and in-country orientations, as well as personal support from our Program Coordinators. We will work with you to help you gain the tools you need for a fun, safe and successful volunteer abroad experience.

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

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Phone/Video Interview
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

24hours

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network

United Planet's Mission Statement

As an international non-profit organization, United Planet (UP) strives to create a world in which all people understand, respect, and support one another. United Planet's global network of leaders and volunteers fosters cross-cultural understanding and addresses shared challenges to unite the world in a community beyond borders. In 2008, United Planet was one of only ten organizations selected by CNN to be part of its "Be the Change" initiative.

Year Founded

2001