The Public Health Program
This program has a profound effect on children who are living with HIV/AIDS or who have been orphaned by this devastating disease. These children face hardships in everyday life and discrimination. The program’s aim is to provide a safe environment for these children to be supported and to educate them, and others, on HIV/AIDS. Projects reach children through school-based clubs and reach youth through out-of-school sporting activities. As soccer is one of the biggest sports in Africa and the vast majority of youth follow the sport, soccer is used as a way to bring these youths together and offer support and education. To date, more than 600 children and youth have been supported through the program, and it is hoped to greatly increase this number going forward. Educating children on the disease, how to prevent it, what it may actually mean for those with the disease, and how they can go on to live fulfilling lives makes a huge difference to vulnerable youth and children, many with no family and who feel disillusioned. This program really can make a true difference to those who face unimaginable challenges in everyday life.
Goals of this Project:
- Improve the future prospects of the children living with HIV/AIDS or who have been affected by the disease
- To educate and support children and youth with or affected by HIV/AIDS
- To create a better understanding of the African culture and value system
How You Can Help
This program can change the lives of vulnerable children and youth, offering a support system and a safe place for those with HIV/AIDS. Volunteers will receive training prior to assisting with support groups.The benefits of this program – educating children and youth on how to stay safe from contracting the disease, or how to successfully live with the disease, quite simply changes lives. Volunteers play an essential role in facilitating and supporting the projects and are invaluable to the sustainability of the program.
Volunteers contribute in a number of ways and can expect to undertake the following tasks:
- Assist with the day-to-day running of program projects
- Network with program staff, non-governmental organizations or child protection agencies
- Facilitate education programs
Requirements
This program offers an amazing opportunity for suitable applicants who are 18 years and over with experience in this field, though volunteers who simply wish to explore an interest in this field are also welcomed as there are many ways you can assist, and training will be provided prior to you assisting the support groups. Ideally, volunteers on this project will have at least a basic knowledge of the local language in order to communicate effectively though this is not a pre-requisite and English is widely spoken. Naturally, all applicants must also have a genuine willingness to help, show drive and initiative, and bring a positive 'can-do' attitude. If this sounds like you, we want you on the team!
Additionally, volunteers applying to join this program will be required to supply to following documentation:
- Emergency contact
Project Location
Victoria Falls is a town in the western portion of Zimbabwe, across the border from Livingstone, Zambia, and near Botswana. The town lies immediately next to the falls which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. Although the falls are the major attraction, this popular tourist destination offers both adventure seekers and sightseers plenty of opportunities for a longer stay. While in Victoria Falls you will have the opportunity to undertake many leisure activities ranging from white water rafting and bungee jumping to canoeing, fishing and boat cruises. Your program coordinator can assist you if you wish to book one of these activities and they often get a better price for volunteers.
Start Dates & Duration
This project is available year-round and programs start every SUNDAY. Volunteers can choose to participate for periods ranging from 2 weeks to 12 weeks. Longer stays can be arranged directly with the local team, but will be subject to availability and individual visa conditions.
Spaces on this project are limited and therefore subject to availability. Early booking is recommended.
For current available start dates please check the calendar on the right.
Arrival & Orientation
Upon your arrival in Victoria Falls, you will be collected at the airport by a representative of the local project team and delivered to the volunteer house. Here you will receive an orientation to help you settle in, find out about your volunteering placement, the local surroundings and meet your fellow volunteers. A representative from the local team will fill you in on local and regional customs, traveling, rules and recommendations, and of course, what to expect from your volunteering experience. This is a great opportunity to get to know your hosts, meet your fellow volunteers, and ask any last questions you may have.
- Program Arrival Day: SUNDAY
- Program Departure Day: SATURDAY
- Arrival/Departure Airport: Victoria Falls Airport, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe (CODE: VFA)
Accommodation & Meals
Volunteers joining our team in Victoria Falls are accommodated in a spacious volunteer house located 4 kms from the city center.
The shared bedrooms have single beds, and rooms are split by gender.
The bathroom is equipped with a flush toilet and a bath.
The lounge has a spacious lounge suite and entertainment in the form of TV with a wide range of international news and entertainment channels. Wifi is available on site (limited use).
There is a lovely outside area where you can relax for a quiet drink.
Our local partner resides on site, and a cook and cleaner are on site to cook your meals and take care of the house.
Linen in the form of blankets, sheets and pillows are provided.
On working days, volunteers are provided two meals (breakfast and dinner) on a daily basis while at the volunteer house, while lunch will be provided at the partner office on weekdays. Lunch will be taken at the house on the weekend. If you’re working over your lunch break you can take a packed lunch with you.
Fees
That’s just USD 43 per day* for:
*In addition to the program fees listed above a Registration Fee is payable to secure your place. The registration fee is USD 299 for those volunteering with Love Volunteers for the first time or USD 149 for any subsequent volunteer placements. The registration fee includes: lifetime LV Alumni Membership, fundraising support & advice, dedicated pre-departure support, certificate of completion (on request), and exclusive access to the LV Trip Planner.
Some things are not included in the program fees listed above, such as flights, visas, vaccinations, travel insurance, additional foods and snacks, spending money, local transport, in-country trips and excursions, return airport transfer (unless mentioned above).
Please note that prices are subject to change without notice. Please ensure you have read the Love Volunteers Terms and Conditions & Refund Policy.