Description

There are a vast number of interesting volunteer projects available in South Africa. Many of them are very close to the beautiful city of Cape Town. Although applicants may indicate a preference for the kind of project that they would like to participate in, the placement depends on the skills the applicant has to offer and on the specific needs of the host project. Volunteer SA applicants will be students of progress, for the struggle for equality, and (naturally) of having a good time!

Project Areas

Environmental - Many old nature reserves are being redeveloped and re-launched. Archaeological excavation sites are being displayed to study evolution and the cradle of mankind. Alien vegetation is being cleared to make way for the rich diversity of indigenous plant species to grow and flourish.

Tourism - Another important area of development is that of tourism. Tourism is the lifeblood of certain parts of the country, for without it, there would be no funds for the construction of necessary schools, hospitals and homes. Help build up tourism, by lending a hand in the building of museums or by helping with the restoration of old churches and town halls in historic little towns. There are also projects bringing tourism to rural villages and local communities.

Education - There are several schools in and around Cape Town where volunteers are desperately needed to 'roll up their sleeves' and interact with the children, assist in teaching basic English, coaching sports or even help to create and maintain school gardens. Schools, such as the Chris Hani Literacy Centre are one of many projects struggling to provide better education for township children. The world-renowned American opera singer Simon Estes, founded the Simon Estes School of Music in Lansdowne, especially to accommodate musically talented students from underprivileged backgrounds.

Social Welfare - As much as society must progress, it must be nurtured. There are many social projects and non-profit organization that seek to readdress the damages of Apartheid and support the budding South African democracy. These organizations train community members to assume leadership roles, and volunteers are now being placed within these projects. Many hospitals and clinics are also desperate for the help of volunteers in centers around Cape Town.

Highlights

Referred to by some as 'the world in one country' South Africa is a land of extraordinary beauty, mystery and adventure. Although this expression alludes to the varying climatic conditions, vegetation and the abundance of animals, it can also be used to describe the diversity of cultures, languages and religions, and the extremes of first world development next to third world difficulties.

Qualifications

- 18 - 35 years of age
- Must have at least completed High School certificate
- Tertiary training would be an advantage
- Flexible, talented and skilled individuals willing to work hard
- It is important for applicants to be able to speak, read and write English quite well. However, some communities, particularly those around Cape Town have Afrikaans as their first language (Afrikaans is surprisingly close to Dutch)
- An ability to live and work in rural communities where conditions may be less comfortable than those to which the applicant is used

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Program Fees Include:

- Comprehensive pre and post departure orientation
- Food and lodging for full duration of placement (8 weeks)
- One weeks hostel accommodation in orientation week
- Daily excursions during orientation
- Mail holding facilities
- Internet use
- Ongoing support in Country of Volunteering
- Regular Get Togethers

Salary/Pay

Benefits of the Volunteer SA Programme: - A seven-day orientation when you arrive in the beautiful city of Cape Town. You will learn about the country, cultures, languages, how to travel safely, medical issues and how to prepare for living and Volunteering in South Africa. - Accommodation for the seven days orientation in Cape Town - The support of the partner Organization, SASTS Working Adventures, whilst on your project. This includes services such as mail holding/message taking, drop-in resource room with computer facilities, notice boards, and staff to deal with queries. - Applicants are open to use SASTS telephone (for local calls) and computers to send e-mail, check out websites or type letters home between 9-12 in the mornings. - SASTS will provide information and advice on how best to explore the rest of South Africa after the completion of a project Additional benefits - Pre-placement in a development project - Meals and accommodation while at the project site - Transport to and from the project - Accommodation for one night in Cape Town at the end of the project

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

Independent traveler who is flexible and caring and can communicate in English

Age Range

18-35, except US citizens 19-35

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Application Process Involves

• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Resume
• Written Application
• In-Person Interview when Feasible
• Letters of Reference
• Phone/Video Interview

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network

Volunteers for International Partnership's Mission Statement

Volunteers for International Partnership offers each international volunteer an opportunity to learn a culture from the inside while doing valuable community service, peer to peer, in a stimulating new environment. VIP is committed to: *Careful selection and preparation of the volunteer, host family and Host Organization. *Emphasis on the education and self-awareness gained through international community service and volunteering. *Planning the volunteer's intercultural experience to highlight enrichment from cultural differences. *Full immersion in the host culture through orientation, language training, worksite and housing selection. *Individualization of volunteer placement design to take full advantage of volunteer differences in skill, age, experience and diversity. *Effective evaluation of the experience and the Host Organization. *Strong efforts to enhance the volunteer's social adjustment to regional habits and customs. *Choosing volunteer service projects that are worthwhile, safe, meet the needs of the local community and are conducted responsibly with regard to environmental, social and local issues.