Volunteer Programs in Kisumu, Kenya

I travelled to Kisumu alone, a new country, a new culture and language not knowing what to expect, but it was the best experience. Each day was so different, and I quickly became accustomed to the laid back “Kenyan time”. When people hear about the trip the first thing they ask is “What was your favourite part?”, and I never know how to answer. It was the people, the lessons and the laughs shared that made the experience so special. We spent lots of time in the children’s remand home. In a time of such uncertainty in these young people’s lives seeing how eager they were to broaden their knowledge was honestly eye-opening. Getting to spend every evening chatting, playing lego, listening to music or being taught Kiswahili by the children are the little moments I will never forget.

It brought me so much joy to soend time with the kids. It felt like we built a geniuine connection right away and i miss them very much. I am very thankful, that i was welcomed dearly by everyone. They made me feel like i belonged there and were always so hapoy to see me. I loves the walk to the waterfall and the hike on our last day. The view from up there was incredible and i loved being sorrounded by all those lovely people. I also enjoyed our trip to the lake. We danced and sang, it made me feel so nostalgic and it got me to really think about the future, and where and how i wanna spend my gap year after i graduate. I loved the whole experience and defenitly wanna come back.

I truly had an amazing time volunteering with Better Me. The program is beautifully organized, with volunteers staying in a comfortable home, enjoying great food, and, most importantly, being surrounded by wonderful people. The staff is incredible—they are welcoming, caring, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in making sure every volunteer has a meaningful and memorable experience. The variety of opportunities offered throughout the week was so enriching and allowed me to connect with the community in so many different ways. Every child I interacted with was incredibly smart, kind, and full of personality, and in so many ways, they taught me more than I could have ever taught them. My time with Better Me was truly one of the most meaningful and enriching experiences of my life. I learned so much, grew in ways I never expected, and gained memories and relationships that I will carry with me for a long time. I genuinely wouldn’t trade this experience for the world. What is your advice to future travelers on this program? Try everything! Better Me has so many different opportunities and experiences available to volunteers, and the staff is incredibly open-minded and supportive if you want to create and lead your own activities. One of the other volunteers led guitar lessons, while I helped lead Zumba with another group of kids. I also got to help with social media, create my own lesson plans, and teach my own classes. Better Me also collaborates with so many different organizations, which gives you the opportunity to attend their events and meet other staff members and volunteers. Outside of volunteering, make sure you take advantage of being in Kenya! Go on a safari and explore different parts of the country. The staff has so many connections and is incredibly helpful.

My time in Kenya was amazing. The most beautiful moments were the time with the children. One meaningful moment was the time when I came back from town and the children ran to you with a bright smile. Their joy and energy surprised me every day and made me feel welcome all the time. This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone and will stay with me forever. I'm thankful for the amazing people and the support of everyone. I already miss the children and the kindness from everyone. It was an opportunity to connect with great people and learn about a different culture. Kenya will always have a special place in my heart.

Spending time in Kisumu with Better Me was probably the most meaningful and formative experience for me. Amongst others, I had the opportunity to lead workshops at the Kisumu Children’s Remand Home and to prepare activities for children at the Korando Educational Center. During my second stay I wanted to gain insight into healthcare in a different setting and therfore I did a clinical orientation, which better me supported from the very beginning. Thanks to them I left with a much broader perspective, especially in an emotional way. Working alongside local healthcare professionals showed me how adaptable and thoughtful medical practice is when resources are limited. Beyond the clinical environment, everyday life in Kisumu itself had a strong impact on me. I was struck by the sense of community, the openness in conversations, and the warmth I experienced in daily interactions. All in all, better me left me with the feeling of having a second family on the other side of the world and with experiences that I will cherish forever. Asante !!!!

I‘m so glad I could do this program and on top of that, share it with 3 friends of mine from university. It was a magical and unforgettable time there, I already miss all the people, the kindness, the positivity, the laughter from the children, the funny and the not so funny moments together - everything about it! Being part of this family and having the chance to be in the middle of it all had a great impact on me. Seeing how the kids live there, but still being so positive and full of life, playing with them, eating chapati with them, learning how to cook the best meals and trying local food, going out with the other volunteers, to dunga beach or karaoke bar, going on little adventures together like a sunrise hill walk or to the Equator - it was all unbelievable. I also had the opportunity to do 2 weeks of clinical orientation in the Kisumu County Referral Hospital, which was a great experience for us as medical students from Austria. Talking with other students and doctors, seeing the procedures and operations done differently, and overall, the whole hospital and health care system was very interesting to see. Thanks to everyone for making this time unforgettable :)

Taking part in this program was an extraordinary experience that had a significant impact on me both personally and professionally. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed and included, and I quickly realized that this was going to be more than just a temporary involvement. It became a journey of personal growth, cultural exchange, teamwork, and self-discovery. Looking back, I can confidently say that the time I spent with this organization has shaped me in ways I could not have anticipated, and it is an experience I would wholeheartedly recommend to others. One of the aspects I appreciated most was the way the organization tailored projects to the individual strengths and interests of each participant. Instead of assigning tasks randomly, there was real thought given to where people could contribute most effectively and, at the same time, develop their own abilities. I was given the opportunity to work on different projects that challenged me to think creatively, solve problems, and take responsibility. This approach not only made me feel valued but also allowed me to explore areas I had never worked in before. It gave me the chance to step out of my comfort zone, while still feeling supported every step of the way.

I spent a few weeks volunteering with Better Me in Kenya in 2025, and it was one of the most memorable parts of my travels. The main thing I was doing was going to the Kisumu Remand Home, where I taught English grammar and writing. I also led yoga classes for kids who had never tried them before. Teaching 20+ kids without yoga mats may sound chaotic, but it forced me to get creative, and the kids' enthusiasm made up for it!! The kids were on break from school, so I imagine that the schedule was a bit calmer than usual. However, this allowed time to spend time with the kids at the center, and have some time for myself as well. This program is also an incredible way to get to know Kenya, which you won't see otherwise if you go to Maasai Mara and leave. The staff at Better Me are incredible. I don’t have words to describe how kind and supportive they were. Living arrangements were simple but comfortable, and the meals were healthy and filling. I heavily recommend this program!!

My daughter Jane went at Better Me for the thirth time and she asked me to come with her, I was hesistant at first but I'm so glad I went along. As a 50year old Belgian father, I was surprised by everything I saw on arriving in the African continent: another world opened my eyes, a culture shock! I don't have experience in education or teaching, so I proposed to help as a handyman. The first days I gave a helping hand to Lawrence by making concrete, installing doors and a new closet in the kitchen and while we worked, I made connection with the little boys and we played together...football, painting, coloring, hide and seek, catcher,...I made them laugh, they made me laugh...unforgettable those little faces! When they had to work in the garden, I was with them to help and little by little also the bigger boys opened up more and more. One day the bigger boys and girls guided me to hike up to the hill: a challinging walk with a beautifull view over Kisumu and Lake Victoria as a reward...I was one of them :)... In the evening when the boys went to sleep, I was not always sure: should I cry or laugh? As a father from the wealthy Europe I was effected by the situation buth finally I am convinced that despite the minimal comfort, these kids are doing well: they have education and school, they have good food, they receive love from the many employees and volunteers...they have a future, thanks to Better Me! A lot of thanks to my daughter Jane for taking me along and off course to Better Me for the big work they do everyday and for the unforgettable experience they gave to me. One day, I will be back! Guido from Belgium.

I had an incredible time during my three weeks at BetterMe, to teach, play, and learn from the children at the school was simply amazing! The support from the BetterMe team was amazing, they surely helped with making this time more fun, memorable, and entertaining! Looking back at this period, it greatly helped me with getting out of my comfort zone and becoming more confident in myself. Personally, I visited together with my girlfriend. It was a great experience to share together. For the solo travellers: they have a good intake process, and will let you know how many volunteers there will be at the time you plan to go.

I spent one month with BetterMe. The team and the kids were amazing and the experience is unique. Molly’s cooking was delicious. As you have a lot of time for yourself, you will also get a taste of Kenya, especially on the weekends. The trips are organised from the Team, so you have no effort. Only thing to consider is the amount of spare time, it may be too much for some. Some days, there was nothing to do for the volunteers, so we had to look for something to do. As I am a teacher, I expected a little more to do.

I loved working with Better me even though I only worked there for 2 Weeks! I can only recommend helping them with the education and the integration of children in kisumu, it is a very fun but demanding experience which makes it more rewarding. I hope someday I can return after I am done with university :) I would really love to know how some kids have evolved in the Programm! My only problem would be the price since you are paying for voluntary work but I would say the great experience you will make makes up for most of it! (And your money supports all the amazing programs!)

I loved my stay there. From the activities we did to the people I met. The clinical orientation wasn’t what i expectet but I‘m glad I did it. Overall I had a lot of fun. I loved how all the people where openmindet and happy all the time. The kids where so sweet and I always was looking forward going to chapati night on thursday with them. The team was really nice to us as well and from the moment we met they wellcomed us to the familiy and you felt like a part of the group. Thank you for everything.

Better Me Kenya and Korando Education centre become my family from the first day I volunteer with them! I’ve been volunteering with them already 3 times and I promise I’ll go back million of times more!! Very trusted organisation, amazing local community and fantastic vibes, what those guys and the volunteers are doing over there is such as an impressive, inspiring and important project for all the community! “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world"( Nelson Mandela)

Volunteering with Better Me in Kisumu, Kenya, has been an experience I can highly recommend. I returned for a second time and immediately felt welcomed back into a familiar yet dynamic environment. Many activities, like the Art Class with the Korando kids or teaching at the Remand Home, were already known to me, but each day still brought something new. A highlight this year was helping at “Mama Ngyna,” where I supported with simple but meaningful tasks like feeding, dressing, or playing with the children. What stands out about Better Me is that volunteers are integrated into everyday life and contribute in ways that feel both practical and impactful. The work is varied, the atmosphere is supportive, and every visit offers valuable insights. For anyone considering volunteering, Better Me provides a structured yet flexible setting where small contributions can make a real difference.

I learned so much from my time with BetterMe. From cultural and language immersion to national history to the nonprofit and education systems, the program created such a rich learning environment. Working with BetterMe means working on an international, intercultural team of people who are passionate about youth mental health and wellness. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone who is looking to work in international relations, psychology, philanthropy, education, or who is simply excited to experience the beautiful world of East Africa.

My experience with Better Me has been life changing. I have gone the past two summers and plan to continue returning because of how incredible it is. The people you meet here are so kind and supportive. The children are so beautiful and I am inspired by their courage. If you love working with children and traveling… THIS IS THE PLACE TO GO!!!! My favorite part of the whole experience is those little moments you have where you just feel so connected to the kids. Reading, swimming, and painting with them are just a few of the many ways that I developed such close bonds with the children here.

Volunteering with Better Me was a truly life-changing experience. The local team was professional, supportive, and deeply committed to their mission. From day one, I felt welcomed and guided, while still having the freedom to contribute meaningfully. The projects were well-structured and impactful, focusing on the needs of the community rather than quick fixes. I especially valued the emphasis on teamwork and the respectful collaboration with local staff, which made the work sustainable and authentic. Beyond the project, the organization provided excellent support with logistics, cultural integration, and opportunities to explore the country. I always felt safe, cared for, and part of something bigger. I would highly recommend Better Me to anyone seeking not only to give, but also to learn, grow, and connect across cultures.

Volunteering with Better Me in Kenya has been nothing short of a fantastic adventure one that has touched my heart and broadened my horizons in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Working with the children was the highlight of my journey. Their energy, laughter, and curiosity were truly inspiring, and every day I felt that I was learning just as much from them as they were from me. Beyond the meaningful work with the kids, this experience was also a deep dive into Kenyan culture. From sharing meals and learning local traditions to exploring the vibrant community, I gained a new appreciation for the warmth, resilience, and generosity of the people. Each interaction felt genuine and welcoming, and I was constantly reminded of the power of human connection across cultures. The program itself was very well organized, with the Better Me team offering guidance, encouragement, and opportunities for growth. I always felt supported, while also having the freedom to bring my own ideas and creativity to the projects. Looking back, my time in Kenya was not just volunteer work it was a transformative journey. I return home with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deeper understanding of both the world and myself. Hope to come back again for sure! Thank you team Better Me

My experience with Better Me is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I was nervous going alone the first time, but once I arrived, it became apparent that I had nothing to worry about. The warm reception from the staff and the children truly set the tone for the best adventure of my life. Of course, working with the children each day was the highlight of the experience, but being able to enjoy other activities that Better Me offers—like exploring the local area—made the trip unforgettable. The programme provides volunteers the freedom to be creative when preparing life skills lessons for the children. Volunteering at the local remand home was a standout part of my experience with Better Me. My time in Kenya really allowed me to detach from my worries back home and fully embrace the busy yet peaceful way of life at Korando, surrounded by beautiful people. I would encourage everyone considering the Better Me programme to take the opportunity with both hands. I hope I can return to home to Korando someday soon!