Care & Community - SOUTH AFRICA Project Information for Care & Community in South Africa

Our Care & Community Placements in South Africa

In South Africa, Projects Abroad has links with various nursery schools and crèches in Barberton and the nearby Emjindini Township. Many of these establishments are extremely understaffed, under funded, and have facilities that are in great need of work and attention.

The role of the volunteer depends on their placement. However, flexibility on both sides is the key to all our placements. As long the volunteer is prepared to work hard and put both time and energy into the tasks and activities no one will insist on them doing something they are not happy about. On average, a volunteer will work between 4 and 8 hours per day from Monday to Friday, with the weekends free to travel.

As well as working on community projects like building new classrooms and playgrounds or painting and decorating children's wards, volunteers also work with the children. They take on a Para Parental role, teaching them life skills that their missing or overwhelmed families are struggling with such as the importance of hygiene. Since there aren't enough staff members for them to be able to spend their time with individuals, the biggest role of the volunteer is to provide face to face contact with children who need positive role models. At the same time, they also care for the children. Caring involves such things as feeding, washing, dressing, teaching and daily interaction. This kind of personal attention helps to shape the lives of young people, preparing them for life. The children also benefit from some contact with the outside world. Many children and adults in South Africa never have experiences with people outside their informal settlements and the volunteer's presence is extremely valuable.

The thing all the care placements have in common is that they are designed to help children who have precious few other people to whom they can turn. This work can be challenging, but it is also fun and enjoyable, and greatly appreciated by the children and staff. Probably the greatest value of a volunteer is to bring some fun into the lives of these children. Simply by being there, playing games, showing affection and providing some much needed love and attention you will be making an important contribution. The children are adorable and love volunteers being around. Your assistance will go a long way!