General Info
Working in local schools gives volunteers a chance to meet regularly with local children and their families and for those volunteers with a professional interest in education, teaching gives them a chance to hone their skills in a very different environment. The most commonly requested subject of teaching is English, however you are also invited to teach math, science, geography or other subjects covered by the curriculum. We encourage volunteers to create their own lesson plans and teaching materials are available for this purpose. You may also bring your own teaching materials such as reading and picture books and flash cards. For teaching English it is not necessary for volunteers to have past experience and in-depth knowledge of grammar and vocabulary. The children having experience working with fluent English speakers is invaluable on its own. This is a brilliant opportunity to teach school children in Himachal Pradesh and children in shelter homes and orphanages. Interacting with them is extremely valuable for children’s confidence and also for your learning of the local culture.
Childcare Related
The concept of "preschool" childcare is new in India, where the joint family system has long provided ample childcare providers. Unlike western countries, where child care facilities exist primarily to free woman to work, the Indian Day Care Center's main purpose is to provide a safe, healthy and hygienic space for young children who would not be able to receive proper care at home. Day Care Centres also serve pregnant women. While often extremely effective at improving the health of the children and mothers they serve, these Centres suffer from under funding and miss management, thus making the contributions of the volunteers extremely important. Child care volunteers share the workload with regular staff and help bring a level of professionalism and dedication by meeting regularly with children and their families and ensuring maximum attendance by awareness building in the community. You will introduce the children to the English alphabet and create a colorful and enjoyable environment for the children by playing games, and developing arts activities to enhance their motor skills and encourage creativity.
You will provide personal care to the children each day and assist the local worker in the maintenance of healthcare records including vaccinations, growth and nutritional status.
Women's Empowerment
With the introduction of the National Policy for the Empowerment of Women in 2001 the Indian Government has said ‘Our vision in the new century of a nation where women are equal partners with men’ but in reality Indian women struggle to gain empowerment through society. Education is the most influential tool to raise the status of women and at iSPiiCE we run a variety of educational and confidence building activities to benefit women and adolescent girls in the local community. English teaching and computer classes impart much needed skills to the ladies, increase their self worth and offer a platform for social interaction, ultimately increasing their social status and employability prospects. One good technique for building rapport and empowering the local women is to ask them to teach you basic Hindi at the same time as you are teaching them. You’ll come back with fond memories of an unforgettable experience.
Trips Included
iSPiiCE Volunteer Programs give you the chance to combine your volunteering activities with travel in India. We offer excursions to world famous sites, including a Himalayan trek, the Taj Mahal, Agra and a trip to the Golden Temple in Amritsar, all of which are included in the program fee.
Himalayan Trek
The Himalayan mountain trek starts from McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala. Trek to 3,000 metres for fantastic views of the snow peaks and the dramatic landscape.The Himalayan excursion Includes one night tenting or 'guest house' accommodation and English speaking professional trekking guide. The following day includes some free time in McLeod Ganj or Bhagsu Nag.
During other 'free time' transport may be arranged to allow volunteers to explore the local area including important cultural sights such as the Dalai Lama Temple or McLeod Ganj Township.
Golden Temple - Amritsar
Amritsar - in the State of Punjab is home to the amazing Golden Temple, and the India/ Pakistan border ceremony.
Punjab borders Himachal Pradesh and is renowned for its Holy City of Amritsar and the Golden Temple which is an important site for followers of the the Sikh Religion. The Golden Temple is a breathtaking sight and a must for any itinerary and the serene waters surrounding the temple, known as 'The Pool of Nectar', gave the town its name (Amrit-sarovar). In the early evening the 'Wagha Border' crossing in Amritsar is the venue for the guard ceremony of the Indian and Pakistan Army and crowds gather here to witness its theatrics . iSPiiCE Amritsar excursion includes a visit to the Golden Temple, the Wagha Border Ceremony, one nights accommodation and all transfers.
The Taj Mahal - Agra
iSPiiCE arrange an escorted tour of Agra to include transfer, overnight accommodation and a visit to the amazing Taj Mahal - regarded as one of the eight Wonders of the World. The Taj Mahal, which is known worldwide as a symbol of love, is situated on the bank of river Jamuna and was built by the Mugal emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaj. It is a truly awe inspiring sight and an architectural beauty that is beyond adequate description; not to be missed by anyone making a trip to India.
Following your visit to Taj Mahal you will be taken to Delhi for your return flight home or continuation of your travels in India.
Program Fee Includes
Your iSPiiCE programme includes:
• Airport pick up and transfer to hotel
• Pre Departure Info Kit and Introduction handbook
• All excursion/trips are included in a programme fee -Himalaya trek and McLeod Ganj, Visit Taj Mahal, Visit the Golden Temple at Amritsar, all transportations are included in a programme fee
• Volunteer work with community in rural areas
• Emergency support
• 3 meals per day at iSPiiCE base camp
• All accommodation for the duration of your placement
• Basic teaching materials and use of Computer/Internet
• Opportunities to learn Hindi, Indian cooking and decorative Henna
• Delhi airport drop at the end of your project
What the program fee does not cover:
• Airfare, insurance, visa
• Any personal expenses (water, drinks, restaurant meals)
Cost in US$: 2 weeks $490, 3 weeks $640, 4 weeks $790, 5 weeks $940, 6 weeks $1090, 7 weeks $1240, 8 weeks $1390.
Benefits:
Cost in US$: 2 weeks $490, 3 weeks $640, 4 weeks $790, 5 weeks $940, 6 weeks $1090, 7 weeks $1240, 8 weeks $1390
Requirements:
There are no educational requirements for our programs; anyone with a heart to help is welcome! However proficiency in English is required and volunteers should be patient, committed and willing to learn.
