Township Project in Capetown, South Africa

  South Africa

• Cape Town: 
Cape Town (Kaapstad)

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks and 5-8 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: Contact Us

Description: There has never been a more exciting time to visit South Africa, overflowing as it is with the energy of progress and development after emerging from years of apartheid. The landscape of mountains, oceans and lush vineyards is stunningly beautiful and offers some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa.

Greenheart's volunteer program in South Africa is perfect for more adventurous, seasoned travelers who want to work with an established project that is making a real difference to a community. This holistic community development project runs a tutoring and activity center for school age children, a crèche for young children, sustainable building projects, an organic permaculture community garden, a soup kitchen, and cultural programs that aim to revive and preserve the indigenous arts and traditions of the community.

The network of project founders and volunteers aspire to create a self sustaining community where young people can grow and develop to reach their full potential.

The project is located in a township in Capetown. Capetown, often called one of the most beautiful cities in the world, offers stunning mountain and ocean views from winding hilltop streets.

The township itself is underdeveloped and conditions are rustic. There is no running water in the township; rainwater is collected in a cistern, and other water must be brought in by hand. All new building and development is designed to be environmentally sound and sustainable. Solar ovens and composting toilets have been introduced to the community, and new building projects utilize sustainable materials. The flimsy shacks typically found in townships are slowly being replaced with well-insulated, solar and wind powered "eco cottages."

Highlights: Help is needed with all the various activities of the project. Depending on their skills, knowledge and interests, volunteers can help with:

    * Sustainable building projects
    * Organic gardening and permaculture
    * Cooking and serving in the soup kitchen
    * Teaching adult literacy and vocational skills
    * Instructing community members in health and first aid
    * Tutoring younger children in core subjects
    * Organizing and leading art projects and sports activities
    * Assist in the daily activities of the township's orphanage

Accommodation
Volunteers stay in a clean, pleasant guest house designed to accommodate up to 20 volunteers at one time. The house has 5 bedrooms sleeping 4 people in each (bunk beds), a large lounge and a covered veranda. There are dry composting toilets, solar powered hot water and lighting from wind generated electricity. Please note: Smoking is not allowed in the guest house or any of the township buildings; the project prefers non-smokers.

Orientation
Volunteers are met at the airport upon arrival by project staff. A tour of Capetown and orientation to township life are provided.

Qualifications: This project is recommended for those with some travel experience, who are willing and able to adapt to rustic conditions and an environment where poverty and substance abuse are common. A resume is required for acceptance to the program. Non-smokers are preferred, as smoking is not allowed in any township buildings.

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18+

This Program is open to American and Canadian Participants.

Participants Travel to South Africa Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

Greenheart Travel's Mission Statement: Greenheart Travel is a division of the Center for Cultural Interchange. Founded in 1985, the Center for Cultural Interchange (CCI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of cultural understanding, academic development and world peace. Greenheart is CCI's way of promoting the health and welfare of the earth and its people through cultural exchange, ethical travel, responsible consumerism, and community service.

Year Founded: 1985