Volunteer Programs in Chennai, India

On the southeast coast of India resting pristinely on the Bay of Bengal lies Chennai, the country’s largest Southern city and an important industrial, cultural, and educational capital. Volunteering in Chennai will expose volunteers to a dense and flourishing urban life like they have never experienced – one that is both immensely culturally enriching and shockingly laden with poverty. As a volunteer in Chennai you will have the rare opportunity to contribute to a community in need while also exploring a beautiful and inspiring culture which is certain to expand your life perspective.

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1 Volunteer Programs in Chennai, India

American India Foundation

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Banyan Impact Fellowship for Service in India

The Banyan Impact Fellowship (formerly AIF William J. Clinton Fellowship) is a fully funded 10-months program in India. By facilitating exchange and collaboration between young professionals from India and the U.S., the program aims to shape the next generation of leaders committed to positive and sustainable change and creating a lasting US-India relationship. Fellows serve with civil society organizations in various thematic areas including environment protection, climate justice, public health, education, livelihoods, arts, culture, and more. Fellows receive a stipend, health insurance, language training, mentoring, professional development, international networking and career opportunities. Fellows benefit from in person conferences, and they engage in workshops, reflection exercises, and skill building activities. Apply by February 20, 2024.

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A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Chennai

Projects & Placements

Most volunteer placements in Chennai will be focused on alleviating the burdens of poverty among the city’s poorest inhabitants. Since Chennai is such an important economic and industrial city, many rural villagers migrate to Chennai in search of work and are left homeless in need of basic necessities, such as food, shelter, and healthcare. There are many volunteer programs in Chennai that work closely with local volunteer organizations and NGOs, placing individuals on the ground to volunteer in community centers, orphanages, health care clinics, and other such social welfare institutions.

It is also possible to volunteer in Chennai in fields such as women’s rights and social justice. India is in the midst of broad-sweeping cultural change, and more and more women are coming to enjoy equal rights and education throughout the country. The problem of gender inequality still lingers in many traditional facets however, and those who volunteer in Chennai can work to spread awareness through women’s empowerment by teaching uneducated women valuable life skills, such as reading, computing, and speaking the English language.

There are countless volunteer opportunities in Chennai which allow volunteers to help improve the lives of overlooked communities. Placements can last anywhere from a few weeks up to a whole year, so volunteers will have much flexibility in customizing their own volunteer experience. Chennai is fairly hot and humid throughout the whole year, being in a tropical zone, so whenever you choose to go prepare to sweat.

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Latest Program Reviews

Most Supported Program to work in India

January 31, 2024by: Syd G - United StatesProgram: Banyan Impact Fellowship for Service in India

Through this fellowship, I've been able to work on UNICEF and UNESCO environmental education training and capacity-building projects. While the project placements vary, my experience has been one that could not have happened any other way, as an American citizen figuring out how to work and live in India. The entire AIF team is so supportive, and while I would say the experience of living and working in India is not for the faint of heart, this is the best way I can find for anyone to do that, and to come away with incredible professional growth and experience to show for it. I highly recommend this program to anyone who is interested in the development sector but only those who are ready for a challenge.

My first ever job will be my best ever job.

January 25, 2024by: Aashritha Murali - IndiaProgram: Banyan Impact Fellowship for Service in India

I joined the AIF BIF fellowship as the class of 2023-24. Sitting through a round of online applications and rounds of interview was one filled with doubt, but extremely satisfying. From the very first step, from the interview, candidates are provided help, for example, the website and the work of the fellows gives a fantastic picture of what the fellowship will be like. The team is also extremely helpful and prompt to respond to mails as well. Although I do not have as much experience in the development sector, I was provided this opportunity to serve with an NGO whose work I really liked. My host organization is very supportive as well. The team always makes sure there is ample support and resources that fellows have for learning during their fellowship and contribute to their projects. The regular check-ins, the training and orientation provided before starting our projects help us transition well into our host sites. Health insurance, other resources related to health and safety- the team provides information about everything, contacts and support system that you can reach out to. The team really makes sure that you learn and contribute to your best in the fellowship. My motivation has only increased to serve in the development sector after joining the fellowship, and it is an experience of a lifetime. I will wholeheartedly recommend this fellowship to anyone who wishes to work in the development sector.