Community work with orphans

Product Details

The stunning diversity of South Africa means volunteering in South Africa is an amazing experience full of countless opportunities. Working at a residential home for orphaned, neglected and abused children in Cape Town's Athlone suburb, this is a great chance to improve the lives of youngsters who haven't had the best start in life. You'll need to have a genuine love of children and a willingness to get involved in all aspects of their daily life, from playing games and organising activities, to feeding and changing nappies. TEFL certification is included to give you ideas for activities and help you make a real impact on these unfortunate yet enthusiastic children's lives.

Project details:
The home provides full residential for care children between the ages of 0-5. At the time of writing there are 50 children in the home but numbers will vary. The home aims to provide a healthy and nurturing environment for orphaned, neglected and abused children. The children have often had to deal with the stress of loss, abuse or neglect and so need lots of love and attention. The ultimate goal of the project is to re-home the children with a family in the community.

The older children attend an on site creche where they can learn basic colours, shapes, numbers etc. The centre is also able to provide specialized attention for any children that show behavioural problems but as local occupational therapy students also spend time here.

Why the project needs volunteers:
South Africa has an increasing number of orphaned and abandoned children this is one of the prices of the large numbers of adults infected with HIV/AIDS in South Africa. It's a rare opportunity to add to the lives of these needy children. The children at this centre haven't had a good start in life and this is your chance to make a difference to them.

Your role as a volunteer:
The centre provides full care for the children under their charge so you must be prepared to get involved in anything and everything. You may find yourself assisting with games and activities for the various age groups as well as bathing, feeding, changing nappies, wiping noses and playing with them.

Where the project is based:
Orientation is at Kommetjie, about 45 minutes from Cape Town centre on arrival. The project is based in Athlone, just a ten minute drive from Cape Town, one of the world's most beautiful cities. Accommodation is at a volunteer house in Fish Hoek, approximately 25 kilometres from Athlone and you will travel by train daily.

Please book your flight to arrive into Cape Town (airport code CPT) before 11am on the advertised arrival date to ensure your airport pickup.

Our users say:
I came into this experience with ideas of what Christine Revell Orphanage would be like, what the country would be like and the kinds of things I would encounter, but I never anticipated the people I met or the friendships I'd make insuch a short time, I hate its time for me to go home. "for those of you that are going to th orphanage - WOW you are going to have an amazing time! you cant help but fall in love with each and every kid! - you made the right choice with your project!
Danielle and Charlie: Community work with orphans near Cape Town, South Africa