Water Projects Volunteering in Uganda

Coming from the busy city of London, this was a fantastic experience to open my mind, get to know a festinating culture while being able to reach out to people in need and support this honest, small charity led by Ivan. I have been able to learn a lot about the food, the way of living and about the people in Uganda thanks to BID. I was able to learn how to make bricks for the organization, plant vegetables for food supply and visit villages where vulnerable people are helped and women are empowered thanks to BID Uganda.

I enjoyed some of the activites , but not others. The rivre walk and the walk to the koppies was 10/10. No intrenet was challenging , so 7/10. Jane , Precious , Patrick and Lucas were 10/10. I woul recommend this project to anyone who needs a detox from Social media.

New culture, new people, New Life. When we exchange our perspectives, ideas and plans to make a world better place for everyone. It's good to go different places it helps me view life in many directions

Hice 5 años en haiti, me se su idioma, se toda su cultura, me gustaría volver y apoyarlos en todas las dificultades que tienen, ya que ameritan mucha ayuda de todos nosotros, para ellos poder sobrevivir

I would really like to volunteer. I am passionate about charity and showing kindness to the world. Please, give me a chance. Kindly provide Certificate of sponsorship too since I'm not able to provide for myself at the moment. Kindly put my request into consideration.

Volunteering with Murphy Charitable Foundation Uganda has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It is truly one of the best organizations to volunteer with abroad. During my time with them, I had the incredible opportunity to work closely with children and women in rural communities. The warmth, resilience, and joy of the people I met was deeply moving, and the entire experience was nothing short of amazing.

This an increasingly popular way for individuals to make a meaningful impact in communities around the world. With numerous organizations offering volunteer programs, it's essential to review and research these opportunities to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. *Pros:* 1. *Cultural Immersion*: Living and working with local communities provides an immersive cultural experience. 2. *Skill Development*: Volunteers can develop new skills and gain experience in areas such as teaching, conservation, and community development. 3. *Networking Opportunities*: Volunteers can connect with like-minded individuals from around the world. 4. *Personal Growth*: Volunteering abroad can be a transformative experience, fostering personal growth and self-awareness. *Cons:* 1. *Cost*: Many volunteer programs come with a hefty price tag, which can be a barrier for some. 2. *Safety Concerns*: Volunteers may face safety risks, such as health concerns or political instability, depending on the destination. 3. *Cultural Differences*: Adapting to local customs and way of life can be challenging for some volunteers. 4. *Quality of Programs*: Some volunteer programs may lack structure, support, or meaningful work, leading to a disappointing experience. *Recommendations:* 1. *Research Thoroughly*: Investigate the organization, program, and destination to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. 2. *Read Reviews*: Look for reviews from past volunteers to gain insight into the program's quality and challenges. 3. *Choose a Reputable Organization*: Select an organization with a proven track record, transparent policies, and adequate support for volunteers. 4. *Prepare Yourself*: Culturally, emotionally, and physically prepare yourself for the experience to ensure a smooth transition. By being aware of the pros and cons, doing thorough research, and choosing a reputable organization, volunteers can have a safe, rewarding, and life-changing experience abroad.

As a Social worker i often meet with clients to assess their needs, provide counseling, and develop individualized plans to address their challenges. This could involve sessions with individuals, families, or groups.

Spending time with the children and women in local Ugandan communities was truly unforgettable. The Ugandan people are so warm and welcoming, and I look forward to traveling there again in the future to support them in any way I can.

I previously participated in a trip abroad to represent my country abroad in the field of art and music, and we got third place in singing. I am a girl who loves to travel and help others, especially since I am a doctor. I am used to caring about the health of others. I strive to volunteer in many fields

My trip to Uganda with Ssamba Foundation was incredible. I went for six weeks, and enjoyed every moment of it!! The activities were explorative, the wildlife was mind-boggling, the scenery was awe-inspiring and the staff were utterly fantastic. This is not my first time volunteering but it is my first time volunteering anywhere abroad. At first, I didn’t know what to expect so I was a little apprehensive but pleasantly surprised when I got there. As an Aussie I can confirm this is the best free volunteer program in Uganda and in the world. The teaching out there is challenging and rewarding, especially when you get to talk to the locals and begin to understand how much difference you can make to improve lives. I can honestly say that “I really did not want to leave!”. I hope that, when you consider doing this project, you understand that yes it is an adventure and yes it is a once in a life time experience; but also you get as much as you put in. The whole experience was brilliant for me. Simply living in the rural jungle and going back to basics, cooking lunch and dinner for each other every day and enjoying a truly communal atmosphere was totally unique and wonderful. I learnt so much from the endless knowledge of the staff members, more especially Hon. Isaac Ssamba, the Founder and George my daily contact, and learnt even more about myself from simply going out there on my own and seeing how I coped. I took some excellent photos, I grew as a person and I made some now beloved friends in the process. I would highly recommend this project for anybody who is outgoing, adventurous and enjoys having simply an amazing time.

This volunteer trip to Uganda was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I stayed a total of three weeks in Mukono doing the childcare support work and it is the best travel experience of my life so far. I spent most of my days working on creative projects with “my” kids. The caretakers and volunteers at the children’s centre made me feel so welcome. The centre needs more volunteers, please join them. From the moment I stepped into Uganda, I felt like meeting long lost friends. I stepped out of the airport to a warm welcome from Sandie (my sweet little Ugandan sister). Mr. Ssamba’s family made me feel so comfortable living with them. The support stayed top notch as the everyday love from home to work was extraordinary. The living accommodation was comfortable and local dishes – wow! This program made me grow as a person and opened my eyes to the world. The weekends were always filled with trips and safaris, I got the chance to explore the Murchison Falls safari park too, Mr. Ssamba organized everything for us. I highly recommended Ssamba Foundation without a doubt!

My name is Julie; I am an American university student who volunteered with Ssamba Foundation this past summer. Isaac asked me to leave a review by sharing my experience with his organization, I am glad to do so. Like other participants who shared their experiences here, volunteering in Uganda was an amazing life changing experience, and I would 100% do it again given the opportunity. I was nervous going to a place so different from anywhere I had ever been before, without my family or anyone I knew, for four weeks, but the support from Isaac made it seem possible. From the get-go, he answered all my questions by e-mail and WhatsApp. He sent me all the information I needed to know, so that I felt prepared for my trip to Uganda. While in Uganda, I stayed with his family at Kalaji, a small town north of Mukono. Isaac also arranged the safari trips for the volunteer team to Queen Elizabeth and Murchison falls national parks, we also visited Jinja to see the source of river Nile. I worked with a microcredit program with local women groups in the surrounding villages of Kalaji, helping them design business plans. I was able to meet and work with the local people, as well as with other volunteers from all over the world. I would recommend Ssamba Foundation for anyone looking to volunteer abroad for the first time! The best moment of the experience- its free, I paid 200$ donation to confirm my stay and that was all (we paid for safaris separately). I covered my flights, visas, insurance and all logistics of the trip. Thank you Isaac and your team for the giving me the opportunity to serve and explore Uganda.

I joined the Ssamba Foundation program in Uganda for four weeks and found it to be the experience of a lifetime! Isaac the Founding Director was our coordinator and he did a fabulous job with everything from arrival to hosting at his home. He was very supportive and always available for help. I really enjoyed my hospital experience because I got to rotate through all the different departments in the hospital in Mukono on different days including surgery, pharmacy, pediatric care, primary care etc. My friend and I shared a room at Ssamba’s home. Sandy the “house manager” was fantastic! She made the most amazing meals, served us tea, took care of us and was there for us all day every day and night with a smile on her face. No task ever a problem! In a nutshell, volunteer program was fantastic! Very well organized and no hidden fees. My friend and I paid USD$200 each (for our 4 weeks’ stay). Overall this is one of the best organizations available and offers amazing value for money and donations! Highly recommended! Contact Isaac directly, he will work out the best placement for you.

Having spent the last couple of months on this project in Uganda, I can honestly say it has been one of the best and most rewarding experiences of my life. The location of the projects is fantastic, a remote Ugandan village covered in gardens and farmlands, the chance to mix with the locals and get a real feel for Ugandan culture. The home life is basic but is a welcome relief and is what traveling and project work like this is all about. Getting to eat local food direct from the land was fantastic and being able to cook as a family was great and a real bonding activity. The people you live with become your best friends and family and you get to experience so much together. I had an amazing time and really enjoyed this project, it was a culture shock when we first arrived however Isaac briefed us on what to do and where to go. I recommend future volunteers make sure that they carry more than enough insects’ repellant I can't recommend this project enough and look forward to coming back again soon! If you want to experience real Ugandan culture, make friends for life and contribute to a project that is really helping change people’s life and the environment then you should choose Ssamba Foundation, Isaac is doing some amazing work in his community!

The connections I made with other volunteers and the community members will never be forgotten. Mr. Ssamba (the founder) is incredibly kind and caring and made me feel so welcome and safe. I did the community outreach program with other local and western volunteers and this was awesome because the children and the women were so sweet and welcoming. This experience truly made me a better person, taught me new things and has allowed me to see the world differently. I was able to discover a completely new culture and community. Isaac offered us unbelievable support during our stay. Every concern or query we raised was dealt with immediately and he and his family went out of their way to make sure all our needs were met and we were comfortable and happy on all levels - offering physical and emotional support whenever needed. Sandy was fantastic! She made the most amazing meals, served us tea, took care of us when we were ill and was there for us all day every day and night with a smile on her face. Isaac also organized our Murchison Falls Safari which was fantastic, memorable and affordable! Very well organized, and wonderful sightseeing. Overall this is one of this is a great organization making real positive impact. Highly recommended to anyone interested in visiting Uganda!!

I probably had one of the best experiences of my life in Natuwa for a month, feeding the many animals that live there, taking care of them, discovering a different way of life than mine, more minimalist and peaceful. Rodolfo is an extremely understanding man who cares about the well-being of his voluntarios. We had the chance to do several extra activities outside the centre, such as snorkeling near to Isla Tortuga, or swimming at night with bioluminescent planktons, which were dazzling. The workteam is really friendly and allows you to feel integrated quickly and easily. However, you have to expect to work hard sometimes, for example planting trees, doing work to maintain the infrastructure, but this is only a part of the day. outside the centre

Volunteering with Beacon of Hope Uganda was an incredible experience. I met amazing people and learned so much about Ugandan culture by living with Isaac the CEO of the organization and his family. It was an excellent way to visit the country and become immersed in the culture while still being a tourist. My co-workers were fantastic and very helpful and friendly. Beacon of Hope arranged a 3 days safari to Murchison Falls for us and that was awesome, memorable and super affordable. I will recommend this project.

I had a time of my life i just want live the real life, compartir my time in this moment with real people. See other culture, expand my mind, compartir saberes, be a friend and connect with people a través the universal awareness.

Love Volunteers responded to this reviewMarch 24, 2019

Hi Rebeca,<br/>Thank-you so much for this enthusiastic review of our programs. We completely agree that volunteering is a fantastic way to connect with people and travel around the world doing humanitarian work.<br/>Thanks again for being a part of what we do here at Love Volunteers.<br/>The Team @ Love Volunteers

Tirana is a safe, interesting city with lots of places to visit and eat. The people are very respectful and friendly and transportation in the city is excellent. Albania is country full of history, with a variety of museums to visit, from history to art. There are a variety of restaurants, cafés and bars where you can eat and relax. The people are very relaxed and polite. Altin was very friendly and kindly provided airport pickup and departure. He also recommended places to visit. Maria is a lovely lady who cares deeply for animals and there is some really crucial work being done at the shelter such as sterilisation, rehabilitation and adoptions. There are too many animals at the shelter and not enough people to ensure all the dogs for example have enough environmental enrichment and exercise but of course I understand this is difficult and differs from country to country and hopefully will begin to change as the attitude improves toward animal welfare in Albania. TIPS: Make sure you go out into the city and sample traditional Albanian food, visit the attractions such as the museums. As for the project don't be afraid to suggest doing certain things, such as taking the dogs in the clinic outside for exercise as well as interacting and spending time with as many of the dogs as you can. Maria is very open and will listen to suggestions. Cleaning the shelter takes up a lot of time, however there are staff employed at the shelter which gives volunteers time for this crucial interaction.

Love Volunteers responded to this reviewMarch 28, 2019

Dear Rhys,<br/>Thank-you for this amazing review of our Animal Welfare program in Tirana, Albania. Your care for animals is so apparent in this account and your contribution on the program was highly valued by the local team.<br/>Reading reviews such as yours provides future volunteers an invaluable insight into volunteering and the crucial role that they can play in areas where help is so desperately needed.<br/>How amazing to be involved in such a rewarding project whilst staying in a city as historical and beautiful as Tirana! Great tips btw!<br/>Thanks again for your contribution to the program for being an amazing Love Volunteer!<br/>From all of us at The Team @ Love Volunteers