Volunteering & Volunteer Students

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I have so many stories about my adventure in East Africa, including a climb up the first stage of Mount Kilimanjaro, seeing lions up close and personal, camping in the middle of the Serengeti with hyenas brushing up against my tent at night, and visiting marketplaces full of local handicrafts. However, one of the most rewarding experiences of my trip was experiencing a completely different culture than my own, becoming the minority, and making a child’s life a little better.

Yes, I will always remember the more tourist excursions that I took while in Africa - who could forget a 6 day safari away from all civilization? However, I think what stays with me more and what impacted me more were the smiling faces of the children at the schools and orphanages I visited. The children were just so happy to see new people and receive care and attention. It’s amazing how one little smile from a child can bring so much joy to you and all those around you. I found the Tanzanian people to be very friendly and welcoming, and happy to share their culture and traditions.

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My experience in Tanzania did not leave me. I now have a heart for Africa and one day dream of returning. I also took my experience back with me to the U.S. and headed a campus-wide fundraiser with the international club I was a part of to raise thousands of dollars to build a well in Africa. I saw the need for water while I was in Africa and I did not want to simply go back to the U.S. and forget about what I saw and experienced.

I encourage everyone to go to Africa if at all possible. World Endeavors offers great volunteer opportunities in Tanzania, as well as in Ghana. Whether you are interested in orphanage assistance, teaching children, health care and health education, or community development and women’s assistance programs, the need for volunteers is great and most definitely appreciated. Furthermore, World Endeavors’ Tanzania volunteer programs are located in a region that is absolutely gorgeous. Participants volunteer near Arusha, Tanzania which was definitely one of my favorite areas I visited in Africa. Surrounded by the beautiful, green rolling hills and a breath-taking view of Mount Kilimanjaro, you really feel like you are part of a new and different place.

To learn more about how you can volunteer in Africa visit www.worldendeavors.com or contact World Endeavors by phone (612) 729-3400 or 866-802-9678 (toll free in the USA and Canada) or (+44) 0-808-120-3639 (Toll Free in UK) or by e-mail (info@worldendeavors.com).