diddagirl

I have really been thinking alot lately about wanting to go to Africa and volunteer, at perhaps an orphanage, or helping in building schools ect....
I have absoultely no idea where do begin with this. Most people that I know of that had the opportunity to do this went on a church mission, which is not an option for me as I dont attend church.
I feel like this is something I need to do and would be such an amazing experience. I am wondering if anyone has done this, or knows anyone that has gone over and can offer some advice. Any agencies or groups that would come reccomended at going over there with? Any idea's on cost, the process, or safety concerns? I am basically looking for any information, because like I said I just dont know where to begin with this.

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Cynthetiq

peace corp...

and

a simple google...

http://www.volunteerafrica.org/

I know someone who was in the peace corp and she came home early because of "illness" translated to mean: she didn't like it so she needed to go home. She was in some rice paddy country... in SE Asia IIRC.

living in another country is not that easy even if you have all the trappings of home....

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Elphaba

You might also stop by your local Rotary Club and google the International Rotary. They sponsor charitable works in foreign countries.

Blaise

Two of my former flatmates volunteered in Africa. One went on a program through her church, the other on a gap year program (though I would guess the second one may have some restrictions on who can go through it). They did have to pay some costs towards flights and other major expenses, but both said it was very rewarding and it was particularly useful in helping them gain some independance before university.

viejo gringo

We have been thinking about it---it would be with a mission group
to an orphanage in Johanasberg...
You HAVE to take bunch of shots, for things we don't even have here anymore....
We see a lot of poverty just accross the border in Mexico....they say that is living "high-on-the-hog" compared to what we will run into in Africa...that is why so many people return early....
The statisics on HIV/AIDS is almost unbielievable...
It would be both an emotional and physical drain on the system...
...I'll need some spiritial guidance on this.....It would be so hard to see the children in such conditions.....VG

diddagirl

Thanks for the input and advice guys.
I totally agree VG, it would be completely draining, and heartbreaking....and so unbelievably worth it. I know there is so many countries that need assistance and volunteers, and Africa really seems to be calling my name. I have been doing quite a few searches on the net and any projects going to Africa are typically between $3000-$4000 for about 4-6 weeks (not including airfare), whereas I could go to a place like Romania (which has a strong need for workers in the many orphanages) for about $1500-2000 for 4-6 weeks. Not to mention all the money I would have to spend on shots and stuff.
I am just gonna keep searching, and hopefully the rigth opportunity will come my way.

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minyn

thanks for the info. im considering doing a couple years of service elsewhere. Im scared, but i think if i have my camera, a knife, and water filter, i should be good (or ill go down and ill have the pictures to show!)

i think i need a humbling experience like going there. I take my life for granted to often.

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Suave

Safety concerns include: disease, military conflicts (depending where you are), and land mines. The organization you're with should take precautions in all of these areas for you, but it can't hurt to be informed.

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Charlatan

My wife would like to teach in Africa and move our family there... She is of a similar mind to minyn on this issue...

I am not sure how I feel about but would follow her there if she really pushed the issue.

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