Care in China with Projects Abroad

  China

• Shanghai: 
Shanghai

Term: Throughout the year 
Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks, 3-6 months, 7-12 months, 1-2 years and over 2 years
Typical Duration of Program: 9-12 weeks
Dates: Inquire for dates

Description: In order to volunteer on most of our care projects in China, no previous qualifications or experience are needed. Regardless of whether you are a gap year student, or on a career break all you need is energy and enthusiasm - all volunteers are welcome. You will be able to offer a valuable contribution and play a large role in relieving the workload of the local staff.

You will also add to the children's quality of life, not only through the development of their social skills, but also through exposing them to new cultures and ideas. Some placements are only available to those with some experience in Physiotherapy or Occupational Therapy; so please let us know about any qualifications and experience you may have.

* Voluntary work at care centres for children with Special Needs with Projects Abroad

Volunteering on a care project in China is a chance to make a difference to the children in the diverse city of Shanghai. You are likely to be asked to help with a wide range of activities, depending on the age-group and needs of those you are working with. You may be required to help the staff with basic care duties at certain times of the day, but there will be other times when the work is less structured and you can help by simply playing with the children.

Projects Abroad works with some of China's leading centres for disabled children, aiming to assist those who are disadvantaged in their society. Support and care is offered to both residents and day visitors; accommodating young children through to teenagers. The centres provide physical rehabilitation, education and nursing care for many children. Both physically and mentally stimulating exercises are used at these centres, aiming to improve the children's capabilities, and to lead a healthier life.   

One of the centres that we work with specifically helps children with Cerebral Palsy, Autism and Downs Syndrome. This project is ideal for those with experience and qualifications in Physiotherapy or Occupational Therapy, as they will be able to offer great support to the children. Through using your past experience and knowledge you will play a key role in their development. The centre utilises a modern educational approach in combination with Traditional Chinese Medicine. Marketing opportunities are also available here, you could help with a fundraising event or help with the centre's website updates. Please let our staff in China know if you are interested in this area.

Although some of the staff at the care projects speak only a basic level of English, the enthusiasm of both the staff and children ensures that you will be able to make yourself understood. Both the Projects Abroad staff and your supervisor will always be available to ensure you make the most of your time in China.

Highlights: Volunteer Travel and Tourism in China

There are many attractions to experience and travel to on your days off. Shanghai is developing so rapidly that something interesting is always going on, as old and new worlds come together. The city contains well-stocked museums, and a visit to the Yu Yuan gardens is essential. Take a boat trip on the Huang Pu River and visit the Bund - Shanghai's famous colonial-style waterfront that has been a landmark for centuries.

The Yangtze river, which is the world's third longest waterway, is also easily accessible. Commonly known as the Chang Jiang (Long River), take heed of the saying 'If you haven't travelled up Chang Jiang, you haven't been anywhere.'

Unsurprisingly, given its size and history, China has World Heritage sites in abundance. The Great Wall and the Terra-Cotta Army are attractions worth a visit once your volunteer work is over. But don't overlook the many other palaces, scenic passes, ancient cities, monuments, temples and carvings that have been given global recognition for their beauty and importance.

The lakeshore of Hangzhou, the gardens of Suzhou, the beaches of Putuoshan; all of these offer a break from the city buzz. Find time to go off the beaten track, too. Trek the silk route; visit a Buddhist monastery. The Chinese countryside will show you how vastly different rural life is compared with the world that is emerging from the urban streets.

Possibilities and opportunities for you in China are as wide ranging as the country itself!

Cost in US$: US $3,145 and up

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 16 and up

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to China Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad

Projects Abroad's Mission Statement: As part of the global economy, Projects Abroad helps create local employment wherever we send volunteers. Employing local staff overseas and using their talents and knowledge is important to us. This local knowledge and support enables the organization to channel the skills of the volunteers from more affluent countries to regions around the world where they are needed. Volunteers also learn from their placements and the people they meet, and they gain experience in a chosen field. In the 21st century, we believe this mutual respect is what cultural exchange is all about.

Year Founded: 1992