There are many orphanages in and around Kenya. These orphanages are located around the capital city Nairobi and in the rural areas as well. The orphanage program cares for children who have lost their parents to HIV/AIDS and who have been abused by their parents. Volunteers assist with the daily running of these homes; cleaning, bathing, cooking, etc. The evenings are spent playing with the children and helping them with their homework. Volunteers also take on a role as a sibling to the children - a relationship that is often taken for granted. The orphanages have their own schools and volunteers will teach the children their daily lessons. Volunteers will primarily assist the staff in teaching English and basic math classes. Volunteers also help in refurbishing facilities and help in the general welfare of the children's homes in Kenya.
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Where will I be volunteering?
You will be placed in one of these 4 towns.
- Watamu is part of a United Nations Biosphere Reserve, and so is an area of great natural beauty. Watamu itself is a small village functioning primarily as a fish landing site and tourist area. The projects we are involved with are in Watamu town and the Timboni area of Watamu, on the North Coast of Kenya.
- Nairobi is the capital and the largest and fastest growing city in Kenya. The city is located on the Nairobi River and has a population between three and four million.
- Nakuru is the fourth largest urban area in Kenya. The city is located between Lake Nakuru National Park and the Menengai Crater and has around 300,000 inhabitants.
- Nyeri is about 150 km (a two hour drive) north of the capital, Nairobi. The city is located in the fertile Central Highlands of Kenya.
Project Testimonial: Kyle Lynch, Canada
From the initial airport pickup, to the final airport drop-off, my experience within Kenya was extremely smooth, yet life-changing. I learned more in two weeks in Kenya, than I had in several years in Canada. Read My Full Testimonial »
What will I be doing?
You will assist the staff at the Child Care Center and become directly involved in the lives of many children both academically and emotionally. You will contribute your creativity and talents with the children and become a role model, a mentor, and a friend.
What is required to volunteer on this project?
- Language Requirement: Intermediate English
- Must be 18 years or older.
What will my schedule be like?
uVolunteer believes that you should have a well balanced work and play schedule. This means you will only be required to work 5 days per week (Monday to Friday) for a maximum of 6 hours per day. For the remainder of your time, you will be free to enjoy the vacationing aspects of your trip.
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Will I be able to communicate with family and friends?
Internet Cafés and telephones are readily available throughout the country. An international phone card can be purchased once in Kenya.
Project Testimonial: Kaetlyn Shewchuk, Canada
There were no flaws in the program, and overall very organised. I made some lifelong friends on this journey. The experience was very rewarding and I really felt like I was helping. I can’t wait to go back! Read My Full Testimonial »
What can I do in my free time?
uVolunteer anticipates and encourages your desire for travel and adventure. Your time away from volunteering is open for you to decide your activities. You may decide to take advantage of the local culture and spend time within the community over the weekend. Otherwise, there is ample opportunity to explore Kenya and all it has to offer. Our local representative, will advice you on which areas are safe for travel.
Activities Close to Project:
- National Parks
- Swim and Scuba Dive
- Mountain Climb
- Nature Walks
- Safari's
Project Testimonial: Alexandra Albrechtsen, USA
Friday I brought the boys a gift from a friend in the states. They were humanitarian kits containing towels, a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and a pencil. They were so excited to receive the gifts I had brought them. Some of them told me that the toothpaste tasted so good and that they would eat it when they got hungry. Read My Full Testimonial »
- Program Name: Volunteer Kenya
- Project Name: Volunteer in the Children's Home/Orphanages in Kenya
- Project Category: Care and Community
- Project Location: Nairobi
- Program Fee: A 2 week experience starts from $895; add $85 for each additional week
- Program fees include:
- Airport Pickup Service
- Welcome Orientation and debriefing
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Program Activities
- In-country coordination support
- Letter of Recommendation
- Certificate
- Travel Insurance Coverage: Read Full Policy Details
- Items not included: Flights, travel insurance, vaccinations, visa costs, personal expenses, and any other expense not listed above
- Project Transport Arrangements: Volunteer Projects are located close to the home stays. Volunteers will either walk or take the bus to their Project Site.
- Suggested transportation budget: Approximately $30 per week (does not include weekend travel expenses)
- Working Schedule: Monday through Friday; 5-6 hours per day (Weekends are optional) EMPTY
- Language Requirement: Intermediate English
- Accommodation Type: Home Stay
- Meals: 3 Meals Daily
- Start dates: Fortnightly, on Fridays
- Volunteer Gender: Male & Female
- Minimum age: 18
- Minimum project length: 2 Weeks
- Maximum project length: 26 Weeks
- Maximum number of volunteers: 15
- Resume or CV required: No

