Micro-finance and Community Development in Kenya

  Kenya

Rural

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months
Typical Duration of Program: 3-6 months

Description: The Lamu Educational Development Foundation Trust (LEDFT) aims to mobilize people to work together in promoting educational standards and other sectors of development for the present and future well-being of Lamu and Kenya. LEDFT offers volunteers the unique opportunity to work with several different community initiatives simultaneously. LEDFT is an umbrella organization that supports three distinct programs:

- Kikozi is a micro-finance initiative which focuses on lending funds to local grassroots groups
- The Girl Child Project facilitates sponsorships for young girls in the Lamu area to attend primary and secondary school
- Advocacy AIDS Awareness promotes HIV/AIDS education, awareness and prevention activities throughout the community

Volunteers with LEDFT are able to work with each of these projects, enabling them to experience a variety of community development initiatives. Although all skilled and unskilled volunteers are welcome, LEDFT encourages volunteers with accounting, grant writing and administrative skills to apply, as the organization is in need of building its local capacity in these areas.

Highlights:
- Affordable, enriching and fun programs.
- Safe and inviting communities.

The program is located in Lamu Island. Lamu has a warm and welcoming community. As a historical and a UNESCO world Heritage town, Lamu is rich in both historical and cultural heritage. The Lamu museum is one place not to be missed if you want to learn about Lamu history. Taqwa ruins is worth a visit and the local vegetable market. As an island Lamu has numerous beaches, Shella being the most beautiful. Dhow Safaris and fishing can be easily arranged. There are plenty of sea food and local cuisine restaurants in Lamu too.

Qualifications:
- Be 18 years or older

- Have no major health problems

- Have no criminal record

- Self motivation, patience, open minded and respect of local culture, traditions and dress code

Cost in US$: $920 for 1 month ($600-2weeks)

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: A typical volunteer at Kenya is given the chance to pursue their own interests especially on weekends.

Age Range: 18 years or older

This Program is open to American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families and Individuals

Participants Travel to Kenya Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Come Kuona's Mission Statement: Supporting the work of grassroots development organizations engaged in finding sustainable solutions to poverty, illiteracy, diseases and promoting a learning exchange between volunteers/interns and the communities they serve. We believe a better world is possible!

Year Founded: 2002