Community work with orphans and underpriviledged children near Kuala Lumpur

  Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: 4 - 12 week placements throughout the year

Description: Travellers aren't alone in making tracks to see Kuala Lumpur, with its space age architecture and pristine litter free streets; they're joined by people from rural areas hoping to play a role in the country's economic expansion. The increased population puts extra pressure on the city's infrastructure and inevitably some people lose out, which is where you can help! With our partner project in the city you will provide valuable assistance to children in marginalised communities who have been abandoned and orphaned. You'll help build social and educational skills, providing them with a positive role model (and the project staff with a much needed helping hand.)

*Project details:
There are a number of projects that you could be placed at in various locations throughout Kuala Lumpur. All offer shelter, support, basic education and social welfare to orphaned, neglected and abused children. They are either privately run or have been set up by NGOs to care for newborns through to children aged 18yrs old. They all aim to provide a safe and stable environment so that these children can focus on their education, develop life skills and confidently leave the welfare homes behind for a brighter future.

*Why the project needs volunteers:
All the projects are understaffed and volunteers are desperately needed. The projects that i-to-i volunteers work with aim to help disadvantaged children and bring them off the streets to help break the cycle of poverty and abuse. By sharing your own life experiences and cultures you will be able to inspire the children. Besides teaching English volunteers can offer love and attention as well as other social skills that the children can gain through interaction. English is fundamental to opening up the door to advanced educational opportunities and career choices.

Find out more about i-to-i, watch their short video here: http://video.i-to-i.com/site-videos/video.html

Highlights:
* Malaysia is one of South East Asia's best kept secrets - a wonderful destination but not deluged with travelers
* Making a difference to communities largely left behind by the country's recent economic development
* Islands, forests, cities and great food - all within easy reach that I have gained through her guidance and kindness." (Gemma Taylor)

This is a great opportunity to work with disadvantaged children who have been abandoned, orphaned or separated from their families. Many of these children hail from marginalised communities who have been left out of Malaysia's recent economic development. You can make a huge difference to the lives of these children at risk by providing them with a positive role model, building their social skills and confidence, helping with their education and giving the project staff a much-needed helping hand.

Qualifications: What kind of skills you need to go on this type of project:
You must have a love of children and be committed to helping them achieve a better life. Volunteers who are flexible and willing to get involved in anything that is asked will certainly gain immense personal benefits and satisfaction. You must also be aware that the children you are working with can be overly active, easily distracted or disengaged. You will need perseverance, tolerance and understanding when working with them. To ensure that you get the most out of - and contribute fully to - your placement a pro-active attitude is essential.

Your role as a volunteer:
You will be involved in caring for the children and teaching them basic skills, these may include teaching English, helping with homework, organising recreational activities, helping at meal times and coaching in basic life skills. You will be generally giving care and attention that they would otherwise not receive.

Cost in US$: USD 1645.00 for 4 weeks, USD 220.00 for every week thereafter

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 17 years old and above

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Year Founded: 1994