South Africa Orphanage Child Care Volunteer Program

Last Updated: January 15, 2024

South Africa is a vast, varied, and breathtakingly beautiful country. It's not like the picture-perfect Garden Route communities. From the Western Cape to northern KwaZulu-untamed Natal's subtropical coast. The enormous Karoo semi-desert runs across the center, while Kruger National Park, one of Africa's top safari destinations, sprawls along the northeast border. Black-maned lions flanked by Kalahari sand dunes; pristine beaches lapped by two oceans; star-studded desert sky; rugged, lush highlands — this is a nation of incredible diversity.

Unfortunately, apartheid left a lasting mark on South Africa, and more than half of the population remains impoverished. The wealthiest 1% of the population controls about 80% of the country's wealth, while those most impacted by poverty include blacks, the less educated, women-headed households, large families, and children, particularly in rural regions. Many local groups, orphanages, and schools are now striving to assist these impoverished communities and children, and they are in critical need of volunteers now more than ever. When you volunteer in South Africa, you will have a huge influence on disadvantaged South Africans who are living in abject poverty. You can volunteer to assist poor children, work in health care, teach English, or take part in a physical education initiative.

Volunteer’s Roles Responsibilities and Activities

You will assist the youngsters in getting ready for school in the mornings. You'll teach English, assist orphanage children with schooling, share your knowledge, and learn about theirs. You'll help the orphanage staff with daily tasks around the facility. The primary role of a volunteer is to make children feel as if they are in the presence of someone who cares about them. Volunteers are expected to make a positive difference in the lives of these youngsters. Sharing your true feelings with children, as well as playing and having fun with them, may have a big influence on how they live their lives. The fundamental goal of this volunteer endeavor is to help these kids improve their emotional, intellectual, physical, and social well-being.

Arrival and Orientation

Our staff will receive you at the Cape Town International Airport and transfer you to your community home or host family lodging. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax and experience South Africa's hospitality. You will meet your coordinators and fellow group members formally. During orientation, you will learn more about South Africa and your program. Later in the vacation, you will travel to South Africa, a country recognized for its history and kindness.

Accommodation

The communal home can sleep 10 to 15 people. Hostel-style group lodging is provided, with gender-specific dormitory rooms. Leaders of groups have their own sleeping rooms. They include Wi-Fi, as well as eating and living areas and indoor baths. Host families may also be given depending on the size of the party. Our host families have been extensively screened, have been a part of our program for several years, and have come highly recommended by former participants. On request, upgraded accommodations are available.

Free Time Travel Activities

Cape Town is one of the most historically significant cities in South Africa. The first European colonists arrived in South Africa here, at the Mother City, which also marked the start of the slave trade in South Africa. It was the place where Nelson Mandela, possibly the world's most famous political prisoner, was imprisoned on the small Robben Island in Table Bay. Here are a handful of the significant historical events that helped shape Cape Town into the city it is today.

In the meantime, you may unwind and explore. If this is your last day in the program, our staff will help you plan your next steps. Those who continue with the program will be rewarded with a two-day weekend to relax. Placements that last more than a week are treated similarly. You'll be working on the project Monday through Friday. Saturday and Sunday are completely free for exploration.