Supporting Africans
For Unity and Development - Supporting Them Support Themselves
Nile Village Volunteer
Mission
Nile Village Volunteer is a project run by The NILE African Development Organisation a non-profit organization that works in partnership with rural village and capacity-building programs to support the development of sustainable solutions for community survival, education, and growth.
Philosophy
Nile Village Volunteer was founded in the belief that partnership is a key factor in the renewal and healing of areas plagued by poverty and disease. Committed to preserving autonomy and cultural heritage, Nile Village Volunteer works in collaboration with village programs to support the achievement of their goals and objectives by integrating international volunteerism, sustainable community development projects, and program assistance.
To learn more about our philosophy and who we are, please contact us or read on.
Volunteer Approach
Through collaboration based on friendship and the commitment to human rights, volunteers have the opportunity to strengthen ties across the boundaries of international borders, race, gender, age, and culture. Nile Village Volunteer is dedicated to preparing volunteers to be culturally sensitive and educated about the goals and objectives of each community, inspiring a sense of global citizenship.
Guided by the communities we serve, Nile Village Volunteer offers the opportunity to work in areas such as:
| » | public health awareness (HIV/AIDS, malaria) | » | environmental conservation and appropriate technology |
| » | rural health care | » | building and construction |
| » | integrative health care | » | ethno-botany |
| » | natural medicine/homeopathy | » | cultural preservation |
| » | nutrition | » | micro-credit/enterprises |
| » | traditional medicine documentation | » | vocational training |
| » | empowerment for women and girls/gender equality | » | economic and business development |
| » | education | » | Memory Box Project |
| » » | adult literacy preschool for orphans | » | documentation of endangered languages |
| » | special needs education | » | community theatre |
| » | clean water projects | » | traditional arts |
| » | permaculture | » | documentary film/photography |
| » | GROW BIOINTENSIVE® sustainable farming methods | » | research |
The Volunteer Program is the result a collaboration between Nile Village Volunteer and our partner NGOs. We strongly believe that only our partners know what their communities need most, and so volunteers customize their own volunteer experiences in partnership with the Director of the NGO with which they have been matched.
It should be noted that the Volunteer Program is not a fit for everyone. It is not designed to provide participants with a highly structured program that guarantees 8 hours of volunteer work each day. Instead, volunteers may find that they participate in differing activities day to day, and they are encouraged to spend their “down time” immersing themselves in the community by getting to know those with whom they are working.
The volunteers who tend to have the most fulfilling experiences through our program are those who:
- are highly self-motivated and require limited direction
- are very flexible and willing to “pitch in” where needed
- truly understand that the pace of life is significantly slower than what they may be used to at home
- realize that “making a difference” may be as simple as making a child smile
For a sense of what a typical volunteer’s experience is like, we encourage you to read on.
Whether you work in a clinic, school, or orphan home, participate in building or agricultural projects, or simply assist in the day-to-day tasks of one of our partners, the camaraderie and friendships that develop enrich lives and create an atmosphere of renewal and healing. Volunteers may also have the opportunity to work on local research projects, work with traditional healers, musicians or artisans, or document oral accounts to capture and preserve cultural and family history for orphans.
Nile Village Volunteer works closely with each volunteer to ensure a comprehensive preparation that includes both an understanding of the people with whom you will be working, and all considerations necessary for travel overseas.
Nile Village Volunteer is committed to meeting the needs of our partner communities, and to placing volunteers in programs that provide safe and meaningful experiences.
Are you interested in being a volunteer but would like more information? Contact our team and let us know what your hopes are for your volunteer experience, and we will assist you in planning a meaningful journey.
About Nile Village Volunteer
Philosophy and Approach
Nile Village Volunteer works in collaboration with rural non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to implement sustainable solutions for community survival, education, and growth. Nile Village Volunteer brings together self-sacrificing and passionate community leaders who empower local people, rely on indigenous resources, and build upon their existing cultural and economic context.
Nile Village Volunteer acknowledges that there are many innovative villagers who know how to solve their rural communities' problems, but do not have access to the necessary resources and support. Rather than hindering village growth by creating a dependency on the management of Western staff members, the Nile Village Volunteer model is based on self-empowerment: all village projects are initiated, executed, and managed by locals.
Nile Village Volunteer supports local community efforts by providing grant writing assistance, developing income generating projects, and mobilizing the resources of volunteers worldwide. The skills and mandatory hospitality fees of Nile Village Volunteers' cadre of international participants directly support sustainable development programs in their host village.
From the Founder
In an increasingly interconnected world, what happens around the globe affects us all. The challenge of growing poverty and disease in developing countries can be addressed if we individually recognize our role as a global citizen and take steps forward to make a difference.
Nile Village Volunteer is dedicated to assisting village communities in their quest to achieve a healthy, sustainable life. By exploring ways to stimulate economic development, and always working in partnership with local villages, we are working to help insure sustainable self-sufficiency.
This vision of hope is possible with the help of people like you. All donations go directly to the rural village programs of your choice.
If you would like to become an international volunteer in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, or volunteer in UK, you may contact me directly at david@africanachievers.com.David B. Ndiwanyu
Founder & Executive DirectorWhat is Included in the Program Cost?
» Hospitality: The total cost includes your weekly hospitality fee, transportation to and from the airport, and transportation to and from one village progam. This fee also incudes your first and last night room and board accommodations in the Capital cities.
The weekly hospitality fee compensates the village program for your accommodations, meals, clean drinking water, and supervision. It also directly supports the rural village NGO with which you will be volunteering.
Please note that there will be an added expense for those who plan to volunteer in more than one village program due to the additional transportation costs.
» Personalized Placement: Nile Village Volunteer individualizes volunteer placement based on your interests and skills.
» Orientation / Trip Preparation: Nile Village Volunteer works closely with each volunteer to ensure a comprehensive preparation that includes both an understanding of the people with whom you will be working, and all considerations necessary for travel. It is true immersion done safely.
We offer the following online materials:
- Steps to Departure
- Tips for Travel Arrangements
- Travel Considerations
- Packing Guide
- Health Guide
- Fundraising for Your Trip
- Arrival Information
- Safety Guide- Etiquette Guide
- Language Guides
- Cultural Guides
- History Guide
- Tour Guide
- Sustainable Village Library of Projects
- Guide for Returning Volunteers» Communication: We are here for you and eager to answer any questions you may have. We will work to alleviate any of your concerns throughout your volunteering experience.
» Safety: Your well being while volunteering is a priority. As an immersion program, we take all steps necessary to make sure your trip is safe. The village Program Directors and In-Country Coordinators will provide whatever support you may need at any step along the way.
» In-Country Coordinator: Nile Village Volunteer provides an In-Country Coordinator who is available to oversee the needs and safety of each volunteer.
» Supervision: Our partner NGO will be there to support you and provide you with assistance in your volunteer activities.
» Guide for Returning Volunteers: Readjusting to life when you return can be surprisingly challenging. You are not alone. This guide will help you in your transition and give you ideas to effectively integrate your experience into a productive and rewarding direction. .
» Post-Trip Support: We know that you are going to feel very attached to the people and the programs in which you have volunteered. That's why we want to work with you when you return to raise awareness in your community and perhaps raise money for the projects you were involved with while volunteering. We provide all the materials you will need with our library of PowerPoint presentations on each village program that can be customized by adding your own photos and experience. 100% of the money you raise for projects go directly to the project of your choice and are tax deductible.
Volunteer Program Costs
The following program costs are valid until December 31, 2009.
Duration of Stay Total Cost (£)
2 Weeks £4303 Weeks £570
4 Weeks £710
5 Weeks £850
6 Weeks £990
7 Weeks £1030
8 Weeks £1270
What is Not Included in the Program Cost?
Nile Village Volunteer does not cover the costs for:
| - Airfare - Personal travel expenses - Excursions and tourist activities - Personal spending money - Phone calls | - Internet use - Visa and passport fees - Immunizations - Travel health insurance |
Why Pay to Volunteer?
You may be surprised to be asked to pay to volunteer. You will find that the vast majority of programs such as Nile Village Volunteer charge a fee to volunteer. The communities we work with have limited resources and are unable to support your costs for food, shelter, transportation and supervision. Your fee not only pays for the obvious needs of a volunteer but is also used to help create economic sustainability and community development. This can take many different forms such as providing skills, tools, knowledge and funding to create various health, educational and development projects that will work towards improving the quality of life for all in the community.
Nile Village Volunteer is committed to the long-term self-sufficiency of each of our partner villages. By working with local non-governmental groups, your fees directly contribute to the goals and needs of each community you work in.
Some of the many services we provide, in addition to placing and preparing volunteers, are:
»Grant writing and support to further expand local projects in each village.
»Fundraising to contribute to micro-credit enterprises.
»Fundraising for projects where 100% of all money raised is given towards a specific project.
»Advocating for appropriate technology by providing expertise for specific projects such as solar ovens, organic agriculture, bio-mass briquetting and water filtration systems.
»Research and shared expertise among participation villages.
»Provision of resources for volunteers and Non-Governmental Organizations to assist with the creation and implementation required for chosen projects.
»Access to a distinguished advisory board offering expertise and guidance in a variety of fields.
Fundraising for Your Trip
Here are a few ideas to help you earn money for your trip.
»Make a presentation in your community; clubs, place of worship, schools, family/friends, and workplace.
» Make sure the letter is limited in length to one page and it describes the village or program you are visiting and what you hope to do while you are there.
» Explain how this journey will positively affect your life and the people you are helping.
»Provide stamped return envelopes with each letter. Remember, you want to make the donation process as easy as possible for your sponsor. All they should have to do is write the check.
»Contact your local publications with a press release. If you provide your contact information and a special interest factor, you might have a feature article written that would bring in more donations!
»Create a brochure for yourself.
»Create a website or e-mail distribution list and send out frequent e-mails about your fundraising experiences, dollars raised, and details of your journey while you are gone and after you return.
»Hold an event, silent auction or even a series of bake sales. Make sure that people know what the money from the bake sale will accomplish. Be sure you put out a donation jar. We can send you photos to print.
»Contact your school's Financial Aid or Study Abroad Department. There might be funds available for you to tap into.
»Create a Donation Form. This form will list all of your contact information and several donor amounts your sponsor can choose from. Start off with an initial modest amount but also request large donation amounts and any amounts in between.
After you apply to volunteer, we will assist you with sample letters and press releases, a PowerPoint presentation and other media tools. We are happy to provide support and work closely with you throughout your fundraising efforts.
Age
The minimum age to volunteer alone is 20-years-old. Volunteers who are 18 or 19-years-old are required to volunteer with a companion their age or older.
Volunteers who are 17-years-old or less must be accompanied by a parent, a legal guardian, or a person appointed by that parent or guardian and must take full responsibility.
Families with small children, as young as 5-years-old, are welcome to apply and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Please keep in mind that extreme weather conditions and lack of basic facilities - such as plumbing and electricity - in some villages may be difficult for young children. Also, please note that childcare is not available for volunteers.
There is no age limit. Our eldest volunteer to date was 81-years-old.
Cancellations
A cancellation charge of 50% of the Volunteer Program fee will be assessed for cancellations made 22 to 30 days prior to the start of a Volunteer Program. Cancellation requests must be received by the Nile Village Volunteer office by mail or by phone.
Refunds will be processed within 14 days of Nile Village Volunteer receipt of the refund request. Bank or wire transfer transaction costs required to process the refund will be deducted. Program fees that were paid by bank or wire transfer will have the transaction costs deducted.
A cancellation charge of 100% of the program cost will be assessed for a cancellation or change in dates made 21 days or less prior to the start of a Volunteer Program.
Participants who depart a Volunteer Program early forfeit the program fee for the time not spent in the Volunteer Program.
Cultural Sensitivity Policy
It is Nile Village Volunteer's expectation that all participants in a volunteer program be respectful of local laws and customs while overseas. Volunteers should keep in mind that they not only represent Nile Village Volunteer and their home country, but that they may also be regarded as a role model for the local village youth.
All volunteers should maintain a modest appearance and conduct themselves in a manner that complies with the expectations set by Nile Village Volunteer and the partner organizations. Below are some guidelines:
- Female volunteers are not to wear tight-fitting, see-through clothing. Shorts, skirts that are above the knee, and midriff-baring or low-cut shirts should be avoided. Women are encouraged to wear loose-fitting shirts and skirts that extend past the knee.
- Male volunteers should wear collared shirts and trousers/shorts. Long shorts are also permitted.
- Visible tattoos and piercings must be covered.
- Public displays of affection are prohibited and one should be discrete about sexual orientation.
- Possession of drugs and participating in drug-related activities are strictly prohibited.
- Volunteers are not to take village children from their home.
Should you have any questions regarding these expectations, please feel free to contact our team.
Deposit Refund
100% of a Volunteer Program deposit is refundable if a refund request is received by the Nile Village Volunteer office by mail or by phone more than 60 days prior to the program start date specified in the Volunteer Program acceptance letter. If a start month is listed in the acceptance letter, in place of a start date, the start date will be considered the 1st of the start month.
Refunds will be processed within 14 days of Nile Village Volunteer receipt of the refund request. Bank or wire transfer transaction costs required to process the refund will be deducted. Deposits that were paid by bank or wire transfer will have the transaction costs deducted.
Within 60 days of the Volunteer Program start date, a deposit is no longer refundable.
If a volunteer would like to postpone his/her Volunteer Program, the deposit must be applied to a Volunteer Program that commences within 1 year of the original scheduled Volunteer Program. If the deposit is not applied to a Volunteer Program in this time, the deposit is forfeited.
Language
Volunteers must be fluent in conversational English or French.
Length of Stay
The minimum amount of time one is recommended to volunteer is 2 or 3 weeks, depending on the program placement.
The maximum amount of time one is recommended to volunteer varies by country, and is as follows:
Uganda- up to 6 months
Kenya - up to 6 months
Tanzania- up to 4 months
Rwanda and Burundi- up to 2 months
Travel health insurance is mandatory for all participants in a Volunteer Program.
Excursion Options
For those interested in excursions or tourist activities in:» There are different safari options, ranging from £100 to £300.
Please note that no portion of the costs for excursions or tourist activities are kept by Nile Village Volunteer. While the fees are paid through Nile Village Volunteer, all money is directly transferred to the individual coordinating the excursion or tourist activities (and Nile Village Volunteer absorbs all fees associated with sending the money overseas).
Testimonials
