Street Children Program in India

I’ve taught in Southeast Asia many times in the past, but this was my first experience teaching in India. I was traveling on my own and arrived in Jaipur not knowing quite what to expect, but the entire experience was thoughtfully curated from beginning to end by the volunteer coordinator, Rohit, and the rest of the team. Rohit in particular — along with our driver — was incredibly attentive, kind, and welcoming, and truly made the experience feel one of a kind. The organization itself was also very well run, while still giving me the freedom to bring creativity into the way I taught English and math. The children and classrooms were an absolute joy to teach in — the students were curious, energetic, and full of personality, which made every day genuinely fun and memorable. By the end of the program, it was honestly difficult to leave and say goodbye to them. The homestay was another highlight: it was run by a wonderful mother and daughter-in-law who made me feel completely at home and even helped me with errands around Jaipur. Overall, it was an incredibly meaningful experience, and I would highly recommend it.

This was a truly wonderful and meaningful experience. I was fortunate enough to meet some truly inspiring people in India who wanted to make my time there so special. I include all the staff from Volunteer with India who went above and beyond to help me and to introduce me to their culture. I very much look forward to returning.

We spent two weeks in December 2025 volunteering with VWI as part of the Family Volunteer Program. It was a life changing experience for my family, which consisted of my husband and I and 3 children aged 7, 9 and 11 years. We were volunteering at a boys shelter and teaching English and Mathematics to children aged 6-17. The program was well organised and we couldn't have survived without Pradeep (Program Director) and Shekar (our driver). Pradeep and Shekar were so accommodating and made us feel so welcome. Over the two weeks we developed beautiful relationships with the boys and felt that we were doing something that made a difference in the world. The purpose of our trip was to provide our children with greater insight into the lives of others and to make a meaningful contribution. It was the most authentic rewarding experience of our lives where we lived in Jaipur for two weeks and we are able to explore the city, while also participating in the volunteer program. I would highly recommend the program to other travellers who are looking for a different experience while travelling.