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Life-changing moments start here, volunteer with us in Uganda!
ReportLocation: Jinja, Uganda
Why volunteer with VHFA?The team here at VHFA welcome volunteers from all corners of the world, of all ages and backgrounds.
By volunteering with us here you will have a very enriching first had experience of Ugandan lifestyle and cultures. You will be able to grasp a better understanding of the daily struggles that we face, and also experience the beauty of this country that lies in the hearts of many Ugandans. You will also have the opportunity to give back to a community which is in great need of your help, and challenge yourself in this new environment.
In return, we will have an opportunity to learn more about your culture and background. You will be able to share your knowledge and experiences with us, and help us see some of our challenges here from a different perspective.
What kind of work can I do?
Depending on the time that you plan to visit we will have various programs running, mainly in the areas listed below. In addition to these we welcome volunteers ideas for other projects they may like to implement during their time with us.
Working hours
Most volunteers will be required to work an 8 hour day, 5 days a week, depending on the needs of the particular project.
Cost of the Program
There will be a fee to cover food and accommodation expenses. If the volunteer also requires airport pickup from Entebbe airport there is a fee.
We also encourage our volunteers to contribute a donation to the project within their own financial means. It is also optional to bring small gifts for the children in the VHFA foster homes. Gifts such as pencils, books, toys, games, bedding, clothes, shoes etc, would be appropriate and greatly appreciated.
Accommodation
There are two options for volunteer accommodation.
The first is for the volunteer to stay in a private room at the foster homes itself. There is electricity but limited power points in the house. There is running water. Baths are bucket baths, and toilets are drop down toilets.
The second option is a rental room in a property. The property has running water and electricity, with western style showers (with cold water) and flush toilets.
Food
Three meals per day will be provided for volunteers. Please inform us in advance if you have any specific diet requirements.
Most meals will be traditional Ugandan food including; beans, rice, posho, mashed banana thing potatoes chepati,, vegetables, chicken and fruit.
Health and Safety
We are currently located in the Eastern of Uganda in a small village, around a 10 minute drive from Jinja town center. The area is very safe to walk around any time of day, crime rates are very low. However, like most places, caution should however be taken at night if walking around alone. Specific caution should be taken when walking on the roads at night as lighting is minimal and there are no pedestrian footpaths.
We recommend that volunteers are fully aware of all health precautions before entering Uganda and that they have the correct vaccinations and medication from their
Construction
Construction work will be on a project to project basis, and depend on finances and resources at the time. Currently some of our upcoming projects will involve the construction of multiple new buildings (new Children centers, new school) and infrastructure to accompany it. We welcome construction workers, engineers, or generally anyone who feels they will be able to assist in the project in any other way.
Medical Work
There are numerous medical centers in the local area that could be greatly assisted by volunteers. In these medical centers you will be helping care for patients with ranges of illnesses; AIDs, HIV, malaria, common cuts or injuries etc. We welcome doctors, nurses, or anyone who feels they can provide assistance to the medical staff in these facilities.
Orphan Care
We welcome volunteers into the VHFA foster homes to play with and care for our children, help them to learn, and generally show them love and attention. You may also assist with washing clothes, preparing meals, or other household duties. The only requirement for this position is to have a love for children.
Women Empowerment
There are numerous local community groups that work at trying to encourage women empowerment and develop skills in women of the local area. If you are interested in this kind of work you may assist by developing programs, or by involving yourself with some of the classes or activities that these women work through. There are no specific requirements for this position, except a passion for this type of work.
Teaching
You can teach at a local primary school down the road which would welcome volunteers to teach at. Volunteers may teach any classes that they feel able to. You do not need to possess a teaching degree to undertake this type of work, but we ask that you have confidence in the material that you are teaching.
Farming
Volunteers heart for Africa is running a goats project where you can give a helping hand if interested in that area.
Doctors: Hospitals, doctors, and pharmacies are available in Jinja if medical attention is required.
Transport
Two of the most common forms of day-by-day transport include the boda-boda or shared taxis. The boda-bodas are motor cycle taxis which normally take two passengers. The shared taxis are in the form of mini vans and can hold up to 18 passengers.
Additional expenses
Below are some of the additional expenses you may encounter during your stay in Uganda. The prices indicated are only approximate.
Sim card and phone credit -
Transport into town if you want to move on your own
Water if your not on the project
Tourist activities:
Safari -
White water rafting -
Quad biking -
WORKING ARRANGEMENT
Most volunteers will be required to work an 8 hour day, 5 days a week, depending on the needs of the particular project.
LIVING ARRANGEMENT
There are two options for volunteer accommodation.
The first is for the volunteer to stay in a private room at the CEO's home. There is electricity but limited power points in the house. There is running water. showers, and toilets.
The second option is a rental room in a property. The property has running water and electricity, with western style showers (with cold water) and flush toilets.
Food
Three meals per day will be provided for volunteers. Please inform us in advance if you have any specific diet requirements.
Most meals will be traditional Ugandan food including; beans, rice, posho, mashed banana thing potatoes chepati,, vegetables, chicken and fruit.
