General Info
It has a rich legacy that dates back more then 100 years to 1862 when the first children were taken in. The Girls Home is a registered Children’s Home with the Department of Social Development. It provides a place of safety for girls who have been abused, abandoned, neglected and orphaned. This home strives to provide a secure and loving home environment, specialised care and education. Caregivers empower the girls to give them the necessary skills and knowledge to become confident individuals. The home can care for up to 40 girls between the ages of 5 and 18. The majority of the girls at the home are in their teens.
Why The Need For Volunteers?
These children are in real need of care, they don't know what it's like to have a mum and dad! Volunteers have become an essential part of these orphans life. They need all the help they can get in all areas of life. Volunteers come and take part in activities with the children and it gives them motivation and goals to achieve in life. It is very rewarding to help these children as they are calling out for help.
Volunteer Activities
During the term you will be spending time with the girls in the afternoon when they get home from school. You will assist them with their homework and projects, introduce fun activities such as dancing and singing and act as a role model and an inspiration.
Volunteers are able to assist the girls with their homework or projects in the afternoons. Not many of the girls are involved with extra mural activities at school and appreciate activities organised at the home like dance sessions and singing. You can also help to expose the girls to the wider world with your knowledge and skill. During the school holidays many of the girls go home to their families but volunteers often take the remaining girls, on excursions.
The Required Skills
You must be flexible, use your initiative and have plenty of enthusiasm to face the daily challenges your role will throw at you. A proactive attitude is essential for you and your project to gain the most out of one another. You must use all the skills you have to enrich your experience and to help leave a profound effect on your project. Most importantly it is essential for you to have a love for children and a commitment to the project. Depending on your capabilities and initiative you may find yourself being invited to participate in other events not mentioned in the project specifications.
Local Facilities
The project is situated in Cape Town where you will have access to all the amenities you need including banks, post offices and supermarkets, cinemas & many more recreational activities. There is a good transport network of local minivans, buses and plenty of taxis.
Trip Highlights
You are given the opportunity to make a real contribution and help change lives of young children in Cape Town. Experience the hustle & bustle of Cape Town's urban life and explore the gateway to Robben Island. While you're there why not climb the famous Table Mountain.
Requirements:
Must be over 18 years of age & have a valid passport which must be valid for at least 6 months upon departure from your project country.
