Detours Abroad: Projects in India

  India

Dehra Dun,  Mumbai,  Rural Areas,  Udaipur

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks

Description: Teaching English, Health Education, Renovation

In India we work with a number of organizations whose mission is to improve the lives of people living in rural India. There are several options for placements in India. The first is in Dehra Dun, north of Delhi, in the foothills of the Himalayas; the second is in a rural coastal area 2-3 hours from Mumbai. We also have projects in Udaipur, Rajasthan and in the film-making capital of India, Bollywood.

Dehra Dun

Dehra Dun is nestled into the foothills of the Himalayas. Volunteers have various options if placed in this area. Those based in Dehra Dun can be placed at boarding school for gifted children from poor backgrounds from India, Nepal and Tibet. English speaking volunteers are highly sought after. The children are quick to learn and energetic. Volunteers will be living in a homestay with medium class accommodation, excellent food and a comfortable room.

Volunteers can also choose to be based in Than Goan, a small village, 45 minutes from Dehra Dun. Placements in Than Goan include teaching English, constructing and upgrading of school facilities, working in medical clinics. The level of English is very basic and the school has limited resources. Health work is with the local Doctor, volunteers have the opportunity to trek to local villages and assist with simple medical tasks. Volunteers will be housed in local teachers accommodation on a twin share basis. The housing is basic. Traditional local food is cooked for the volunteers and optional yoga lessons are provided.

Mumbai

Two to three hours south of Mumbai volunteers are based in a rural area. Due to the high rainfall and the surrounding hills there is some beautiful scenery. Volunteers will work alongside a local NGO and get involved in various education and health related tasks. For example:

1. Teaching English, Math, Handicrafts and Sports in government schools. The children are poor and from rural areas with no educational family background.
2. Develop teaching aids and refreshment programmes for teachers.
3. Conduct Health awareness camps for adolescents.
4. Construct small bunds, across rivers and streams.
5. Involvement in organic farming activities.
6. Health check-up camps, dental check ups for children and adults.
7. Medicine distribution, family planning program.

Accommodation will be with a local family on a twin share basis. It is possible to stay in a local hostel for an additional cost.

Rajasthan

Rajasthan, where teaching and health education placements are available, is one of the most exotic states of India, famous for its forts and palaces, colourful festivals, people and music.

In Rajasthan, volunteers have a three-day orientation and homestay in Jaipur. They then take on placements in the beautiful city of Udiapur teaching in surrounding village schools alongside volunteers from many other countries. Some placements are also available in assisting in health clinics in villages surrounding Udaipur.

Volunteers live as a small group in a retreat or guesthouse for volunteers in Udaipur. The shared rooms have two beds each. Food is provided for the volunteers and they travel to their project each day.

Highlights: India is renowned for its wonderful diversity. From palm-fringed beaches, temples and vibrant colour in the south and central region to snow capped peaks and Hill Stations in the north. Arriving into one of India's large cities you will be greeted by the hustle and bustle that is characteristic of the lowland areas. If a first time visitor, you may find your arrival confronting. The "in your face" poverty, sheer number of people, and bureaucracy, sometimes make the simplest task frustrating. Take some time to settle in, explore and acclimatize to this new experience and you will feel more at ease. As you move further north into the Himalayas the pace of life slows and the people are generally more reserved.

One of the most important factors volunteers should think about before choosing a specific placement in India, is the weather. The weather varies considerably across India according to the time of year. Generally the weather can be summarized in three conditions, the hot, the wet and the cool. The temperatures in the Himalayas can get very cold from November February, but has warm, pleasant temperatures from April -September. The warmer weather in and around Mumbai occurs from March to June and the Monsoon is at its peak from June - August.

Qualifications: Any special skills you have will be gladly received. It is essential to bring enthusiasm and an open mind. Bring a smile, commitment and a desire to meet the local people. The key to a successful volunteer experience is a desire to be involved.

Cost in US$: From $1850 for 4 weeks

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to World Wide Participants.

Participants Travel to India Independently Or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• In-Person Interview when Feasible
• Letters of Reference
• Phone Interview
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Exit DebriefingAbroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

Detours Abroad's Mission Statement: Detours Abroad brings people and communities together by allowing travellers to immerse themselves in local communities where in turn they make a contribution through volunteering their services. Detours Abroad organises volunteer placements from 2-12 weeks in a variety of developing countries. These include Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Borneo, China, Peru and Ecuador. Volunteers assist in three areas - education, health and administration, community services including construction, care work and community development.

Year Founded: 1996