Volunteer in Kenya: The Definitive Step-by-Step Guide

Travellers Quest

Volunteer in

KenyaThe Definitive Step-by-Step Guide to Volunteering in Kenya

Table of ContentsChapter 1: Getting started - volunteer in KenyaWelcome to KenyaWhy you should volunteer in KenyaWhat are some popular volunteer projects available in Kenya?Where are some popular places to volunteer in Kenya?Which is the best season to volunteer in Kenya?

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Chapter 2: Choosing your Kenya volunteer programWhich organizations offer the best volunteer opportunities in Kenya?How you can select the best organization to volunteer with

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Chapter 3: Filling out your application 15

Chapter 4: Getting ready to volunteer in KenyaVisa, passportVaccinationsAir ticketRaising fundsSuggested books to readPacking advice and tipsGifts for projects

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Chapter 5: Information you must know about the projectProject detailsWhat to expect when volunteering in KenyaLearn about your host familyLocal supportMake the final call

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Chapter 6: Arriving and Volunteering in KenyaHow to make your volunteer in Kenya experience rewardingSafety while volunteering in KenyaDo’s and don’t in KenyaCulture shockThings to do in Kenya

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Chapter 7: Completion of project & follow up 25

Chapter 8: Most frequently asked questions from volunteers 26

www.travellersquest.com 3

CHAPTER 1: Getting Started - Volunteer in KenyaWelcome to Kenya

Kenya is everything you’re likely to imagine when the word Africa comes to mind; herds of wildlife scattered across wide-open savan-nas, vast desert land, snow-capped mountains that lie on the equator and long stretches of palm-tree lined beaches along the Indian Ocean - these are some of Kenya’s breathtaking pano-ramas.

Known as Africa’s original safari destination, Kenya is graced with tightly knit indigenous tribes and packs of animals that migrate every

year across the Masai Mara. It is home to the Great Rift Valley, a stretch of land that once threatened to slice the continent, and is one of the geological wonders of the world. Whether you’re a photographer, geologist, biologist, anthropologist or none of the above, a visit to the jewel of East Africa that is Kenya will surely inspire you.

Kenya is also one of the popular volunteer des-tinations. As you volunteer in Kenya you can

Photo Credit: rcdpinternationalvolunteer.org


work in many areas that range from children to wildlife. Through these efforts, volunteers will reap the unshakable joy that comes with build-ing something positive in a truly enchanting part of the world.

Why you should volunteer in Kenya

Welcome to one of the friendliest and not-so-westernized culture of people on earth!

There is no reason not to be a volunteer in Ken-ya; it is described by travelers as ‘perfection.’ You will have opportunities to see landscapes of celestial beauty, meet a fascinating array of tribal communities, and fill your camera (and memories) with animal sightings that could fill up an entire issue of the National Geographic. Most of all, volunteering in Kenya is one of the most wonderful things you can do on a humani-tarian level. You must experience Kenya at least once in your lifetime.

The Great Wildebeest Migration

Plant your feet in Kenya between July and Oc-tober and take a safari tour through the Masai Mara National Reserve – this is reason enough to come to Kenya. You will have opportunities to see herds of wild animals, migrating across golden horizons and fiery sunsets to the Mara River, where crocodiles prey on them. Their struggle to remain alive earns this migration the title, “The World Cup of Wildlife.”The Wilde-beest Migration is officially one of the “seven new wonders of the world” and quite certainly, a huge draw for Kenya.

Other wildlife opportunities: Magnificent na-tional parks & reserves

If you can’t make it for the migration, do not worry. Kenya is a mecca of wildlife destinations, ranging from the swamplands of Amboseli Na-tional Park with its elephants, giraffes, buffalos and zebras; to the Masai Mara National Reserve where you can see lions, leopards and cheetahs. The list of ecosystems goes on, from the “big 5”


(including elephants and buffalos) to the “little 5” ( including leopards, tortoises and ant lions). There are many parks, reserves and private con-servancies to choose from. If you love birds, you will be pleased to know that Kenya’s wetlands and lakes of the Great Rift Valley attract large gatherings of flamingos, fish eagles, pink-backed pelicans and other diverse avifauna.

The fascinating people and cultures of Kenya

Volunteering in Kenya gives you a golden op-portunity that cultural tours try to simulate; a chance to meet and get acquainted with various ethnic groups. These include the Swahil, Ki-kuyu, Somali, Maasai, Luhya and Samburu - just to name a few. The people of Kenya speak a variety of indigenous languages and yet uphold traditions and ceremonies that are centuries old. Many of them use art and crafts as a means of self-expression, making Kenya a truly colorful and organic society.

People are warm and welcoming

In addition to cultural diversity, you’ll really like the people of Kenya. Volunteer testimoni-als recount communities with bright smiles and a wonderful sense of humor, and a friendliness that is evident from the moment you step off the plane. Children and local project staff show immense gratitude for volunteers, and the host families are notorious for treating you like fam-ily, especially the moms of the households.

Gorgeous coastline and tropical beaches

You will have opportunities to see turquoise water, isolated islands, coral reefs and white sand beaches In fact, the Indian Ocean coastline boasts of some of the dreamiest beaches in the world. The ocean islands that include Kiwayu, Lamu, Manda, Chale and Funzi, are pure utopia. Lamu has a picturesque blend of 13th-century architecture, and Mombasa (a coastal beach with many volunteer opportunities) is an exotic

mix of labyrinth streets, churches, mosques and Arabian architecture. Make sure to experience the Indian Ocean culture while volunteering in Kenya.

You will use your skills to benefit others

No matter what your field of interest is, volun-teering gives you a chance to further develop your skills in an environment where gratitude can be deeply felt. Whether you’re working alongside medical doctors on a health project or teaching English, volunteering in Kenya gives you genuine field experience while you’re help-ing to build a community and improve people’s quality of life.

You will feel life out of your comfort zone

The best way to grow as an individual and cul-tivate your humanitarian traits is to actually see and experience how people less fortunate than you live. Volunteering in Kenya is certainly a break from the norm – cell phones, air con-ditioning, social media glued at the hip, but living amongst a developing community that will expand your consciousness.

You will learn new things

From the isolated words of an indigenous lan-guage to the art of beaded jewelry, there is no way you can miss the opportunity of learning new skills if you are open to it. Your host fam-ily might offer you a glimpse into their ethnic cooking that produces delicious food, or an experience of living in a nomadic hut made of mud! You will prove your ability to survive in an exotic, remote country, and at the same time gain travel knowledge that can’t be found in a book. Above all else, your volunteer project will teach you many things about the specific field and working with others.


What are some popular volunteer projects available in Kenya?

There is a huge variety of volunteer programs in Kenya. Due to its unique tribal culture, some of them might have you living a rustic life among the Maasai people or working with communities that have had little or no exposure to foreign culture. From orphanage work to wildlife con-servation, you are guaranteed to have a life-changing experience and build lasting friend-ships with other volunteers.

Work in an orphanage

Many orphanages in Kenya are attached to schools, and they desperately need assistance with the children’s education and care. Volun-teers for orphanage projects in Kenya are ex-pected to teach during the day, assisting other volunteers to teach English, math, sciences, religion and social studies. It’s ok if you don’t have expertise in these areas; the main objec-tive is to have the children benefit from hearing fluent English. In orphanages, volunteers are ex-pected to cook, prepare activities, help children with their homework and assist with general chores.

Teaching

Volunteer teaching projects in Kenya are pri-marily focused in communities where children come from single family households or are orphaned, and in some cases affected by HIV/AIDS. Many of them are developmentally chal-lenged, and thrown into over-crowded, under-staffed classrooms. The goal of these projects is to give them the attention and supplementary education that they need. Volunteers are ex-pected to work alongside teachers by imparting their skills to enrich lesson plans and teaching methods, and also create fun and interactive ways to teach English. They are also expected to develop life skills during workshops in safety,

nutrition, health, first-aid, and oral and gen-eral hygiene. Lastly, volunteers are expected to engage the children with singing, games and fun exercises.

Health

Volunteer health projects in Kenya are focused on creating community awareness about HIV/AIDS, and educating people on sexual and repro-ductive health. They also work to conserve the Kakamega rainforest, whose unique ecosystem includes rare animal and medicinal plant species for whom the human population poses a threat. The role of volunteers for health projects in Kenya is to promote these issues and serve in positions carrying out door-to-door jigger eradi-cation campaigns (jiggers are similar to sand flees). They must also participate in HIV/AIDS

Photo Credit: crosscontinental.org


home-based care programs, forest rehabilitation and conservation, and school outreach pro-grams.

Women Empowerment

Projects for women’s empowerment in Kenya are based in Kibera, Nairobi’s largest slum and largest urban slum of Africa as a whole. Here lo-cal community groups aim to ease the struggles of extreme poverty by addressing the socio-eco-nomic issues of orphans and vulnerable children, women’s and children’s rights, environmental degradation, and basic health awareness. Volun-teers for women’s empowerment assist in teach-ing women entrepreneurial and marketing skills, also educating them on how to save and invest. They also provide counseling and support to children who are victims of domestic violence.

Agriculture

Volunteer agriculture programs in Kenya are located on farmland close to Nakuru in the fer-tile Rift Valley. All sorts of vegetables are har-vested here for feeding malnourished children in Kenya’s increasingly expensive food market. The role of the volunteers is to assist with all grow-ing and farm maintenance tasks as well as help out with famine feeds. The farm does famine feeds periodically, where they travel to desert tribes to feed mass groups of people.

What are some popular places to volun-teer in Kenya?

Kenya is divided into 7 provinces that are spread across the equator and is slightly larger than twice the size of Nevada. This makes it small enough to pick one favorable location for your volunteer project without missing the opportu-nity to see other parts of the country after com-pletion of the project. There’s a variety of land, cultures and people; whether you want to live by the beach or in the capital city, every major location has its unique qualities and recreational

attractions.

Nairobi

The word Nairobi comes from the phrase Enkare Nairobi, which translates to “cool water”. It also refers to the Nairobi River, which lent its name to Kenya’s vibrant capital city. If you’d like an urban cultural experience without being too far from wildlife and national parks, Nairobi is a great destination.

Much of Nairobi’s East Indian community con-sists of descendants from colonial railway work-ers and merchants. Its tourism industry can be credited to the British, who transformed the city into a hotel hub for the game tourism in-dustry. Nairobi is also a starting point for many safari trips and home to the Nairobi National Park, a large game reserve known for giraffes, zebras, and lions. The park is famous for being a breeding ground for endangered black rhinos. You can also visit the Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, National Railway Museum, the Nairobi gallery and plenty of other exciting and cultural attractions. Nairobi does have a reputa-tion for theft and petty crime, but is fairly safe as long as you follow basic safety precautions. Don’t walk alone at night or move around with a lot of cash.

Popular volunteer projects in Nairobi include teaching, childcare, sports education, music education and women’s education.

Mombasa

Situated alongside the Indian Ocean, Mombasa is Nairobi’s second largest city and has an extra large international port, making it a major trad-ing center that has historically been controlled by foreign influence. This has often led to racial tension and security concerns. But at the same time this background contributes to a vibrant and creative culture, rooted in seafaring stories


and tales of traders from faraway lands.

Influenced by a mixture of Indian, African and Arabian culture, Mombasa is home to the Swahili people. Kenya’s two official languages are Swa-hili and English. If you’re looking for a paradise beach experience, Mombasa has world class hotels and is next to a sea with diverse marine life.

While in Mombasa, you can gaze at a mixture of Portuguese architecture and Hindu temples, and visit Old Town, their historic district. Mt-wapa Creek is an Indian Ocean inlet famous for bird watching, mountain bike tours and rocking nightlife. And of course, there are nature walks, safaris and Haller Park, a small zoo.

Mombasa volunteer projects include work in or-phanages, schools, medical clinics and hospitals.

Nakuru

Nakuru is Kenya’s 4th largest city and offers ac-cess to Lake Nakuru, one of the Rift Valley soda lakes. It derives its name from the Maasai speak-ing people of Kenya and is predominantly Afri-can populated, though there are international dwellers that give it a modern and cosmopolitan feel. Manufacturing, small-scale architecture and tourism drive Naruku’s economy.

It is a home base stop for droves of travelers who arrive every year for the Great Migration in the Masai Mara. Don’t miss out on a day trip to Lake Nakuru National Park or to the Menegai Crater, a volcano which overlooks parts of Na-kuru and the Great Rift Valley.

Popular volunteer projects in Nakuru include HIV/AIDS counseling, teaching, disability help-ers, community projects and conservation.

Maasai

The Maasai are a semi-nomadic society of peo-

ple that have traditionally lived under a com-munal land management system, mostly in southern Kenya and northern Tanzania along the Great Rift Valley. They occupy roughly 160,000 square kilometers, with a population of approxi-mately half a million people who’ve always em-braced a completely traditional rural lifestyle rearing cattle and traveling in search of water and pasture.

Each self-managed section of people live in kraals (or village huts) made of mud, sticks and cow dung, protected by fences and arranged in a circle. The men are responsible for herding livestock and women for building the houses and for security.

But now they face a number of social and eco-nomic challenges. The rise of private ownership has polarized their economy, and the loss of land has weakened their livestock business and the ability to access water and other resources.

The Maasai are a fascinating culture of peo-ple who are now struggling to survive these changes. Volunteering in their community is an opportunity to help them adjust to their social and environmental changes, while experiencing what it feels like to live amongst them in a truly traditional and rustic lifestyle.

Volunteer projects in Maasai communities in-clude childcare, community development, medi-cal projects, women’s empowerment, educa-tion, youth sports, construction and agriculture.

What’s the best time of year to visit Kenya?

Based on both weather and activities it’s best to go to Kenya during the dry season between June and October. The weather is least favorable from March to May when there is heavy rainfall. The dry season is also peak time for safari tour-ism, so make sure to factor that into your budge


CHAPTER 2 : Choosing Your Kenya Volunteer Program

Photo Credit: volunteerhq.org

When selecting your volunteer program in Ken-ya, you’ll find that there are many organizations to choose from, but they are not all equal in terms of things like price, project availability, reputation and services. They share certain ob-vious beliefs and priorities like wanting to help communities and make the world a better place – but there are some structural differences.

For example, some may only partner with NGOs while others are willing to align with govern-ment groups for extra support. Their prices range from $500-$3000, so it’s important to do your research and know exactly what you are getting for a significant investment of time and money.

Screening the Organization

Visiting an organization’s website is the first step in assessing if what they can offer will suit your needs. But what are the specific things that you should you be looking for?

Here are some basic tips in evaluating an organi-zation for your volunteer project in Kenya:

1. Does their website present itself well? Does it look up-to-date and professional?

An articulate and recently updated website is an important sign that you are dealing with an efficient, well-staffed volunteer organization. Review their available projects and make sure that each description is clear and includes help-ful facts, such as price inclusions and specific


assignment details.

You should feel that you can trust the informa-tion provided, and their website should have links to positive reviews and social media. A good track record is important, so check wheth-er the organization has been around for at least 5-10 years and that they have a solid mission statement stating their values.

2. What are you getting for your money?

Make sure that the price fits reasonably into your budget. It should cover basic inclusions such as airport pickup, accommodation, at least 2 meals a day, and all project related travel and expenses.

Beyond this you might ask yourself - what really separates a $500 program from one that costs $3000? There are a number of possible reasons why some projects require a significantly higher investment. Maybe the project itself is expen-sive (often the case with wildlife conservation), or the program comes with potential for a TEFL certification, although this is usually a separate fee.

Take careful note of any hidden costs, and be aware of the things that are never included, such as airfare, visas and spending money.

3. Is the organization committed to a local or an ethical cause?

Remember that you are making a valuable in-vestment of your time, energy and resources. You are also acting as an ambassador for the program that you select, so make sure their values are in line with your own. Moreover, they should demonstrate a clear desire to build sus-tainable communities.

Check to see if there’s a local school or commu-nity project that they are supporting. Read their mission statement, online reviews and volunteer

testimonials. Are they an ethical company that is clearly not for profit?

4. Is there in-country support?

You are venturing off to a developing country. Hence it is paramount that your volunteer or-ganization offers reliable in-country support and puts the safety of its volunteers first on their priority list. Make sure that there is an in-coun-try coordinator who is accessible and available to help you at any time and that he or she has plenty of local support.

If your organization does not have a local office, they should at least have a relationship with a local community organization affiliated with your project. There should be someone availa-ble to pick you up from the airport and take you to your host family or accommodation.

As a good first step towards selecting an or-ganization, you might want to initiate personal correspondence with a polite and professional email inquiry. Do they respond in a timely, friendly and helpful manner?

Photo Credit: IFRE Volunteers


What are some of the best programs for volunteering in Kenya?

We have compiled a list of organizations for you to review, based on prices, reviews and testi-monials. You need to consider factors such as reputation, program fees, in-country support and available projects to choose from. While some offer a large spread of projects throughout the country, others are primarily based in one or two areas.

RCDP Volunteer Abroad

RCDP Volunteer Abroad was established 1998 as an idea in the Colorado mountains to be the first ever volunteer organization in the mountains of Nepal, a country that was in desperate need of humanitarian support. After going global 10 years later in 2008, this pioneer company re-

mains the most recognized and respected volun-teer organization in Nepal.

RCDP encourages international volunteers to contribute to sustainable community develop-ment and through these endeavors, to learn new perspectives and change their own lives. Deeply passionate about the welfare of its volunteers, RCDP offers low program fees and benefits such as facilitation of visa extensions, clean and safe host family rooms, in-country travel advice and services, 24-hour emergency hotlines, and expe-rienced, supportive full-time staff.

Programs range from $355-$535 for 1-2 weeks. In Kenya, volunteers can choose from a num-ber of projects in Nairobi and Maasai including orphanage work, teaching English, HIV/AIDS, health, community development and cultural conservation.

IFRE

IFRE is a Dallas based company that was started in 2006 and has since sent over 17,000 volun-teers to developing countries. At the heart of IFRE’s core beliefs lies genuine compassion for struggling societies. Quite recently, they re-sponded to the April 2015 earthquake in Nepal by campaigning for volunteers and relief aid on their website.

IFRE places experienced, hands-on country coordinators to ensure that volunteers will be supported and guided throughout the duration of their project. This organization is also af-fordable with the program fees going directly to projects and host families. The fees range from $450-$550 for 1-2 weeks.

In Kenya, IFRE offers 10 volunteer projects in Nairobi and Maasai that include working in or-phanages, teaching English, HIV/AIDS projects, health projects, community development and cultural conservation.

CADIP

Photo Credit: rcdpinternationalvolunteer.org


CADIP is a Canada based volunteer organiza-tion with projects throughout Asia, Africa and Latin America. Projects are for a duration that can range from 1-6 months. This organization focuses on not just the projects themselves, but really helping each volunteer develop sensitivity towards cultural and social differences, along with confidence and problem solving skills. All volunteers are given an orientation before their assignment.

In Kenya, CADIP has a number of programs in Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa and Nakuru. The programs include orphanage care, teaching, work with the mentally handicapped, farming, health, women empowerment, and support for HIV/Orphans.

Programs generally run for $520 per month plus an additional fee of 320 Euros per month which goes directly to the project. Volunteers get a room and meals, but they must cover their pro-ject transportation costs.

Kaya

Based in the UK, Kaya was started in 2008 and has projects in 27 countries, all which are strongly rooted in creating sustainable, inde-pendent communities. Kaya aims to prepare its volunteers with as much information about their project ahead of time, which helps them enjoy their project as well as be effective at their tasks.

Kaya accommodates people who want to vol-unteer as an individual, group or family. There is even an option for a honeymoon volunteer program. Meals, accommodation, transporta-tion and in-country support are provided for an all-inclusive 2-week fee of $2214. The projects include working on wildlife conservation in the Maasai region, contributing not only to an eco-system cause, but enabling a local school to teach students how to be wildlife tour guides.

Photo Credit: globalcrossroad.com

Global Crossroads

Global Crossroads is a Dallas based company that was established in 2003 and has sent over 18,000 volunteers to 18 developing countries. They have high ratings for being 100% supportive of their volunteers’ needs, safety and happiness on each project. They also allow volunteers to choose projects that are not on their website, and extend the assignment past the scheduled date of completion if desired.

Global Crossroads won’t break your bank either. 1-2 week programs in Kenya range from $450-$600, and include teaching, orphanage work, outreach programs, health, construction, famine feed and agriculture. They are located in Na-kuru.


International Volunteer HQ

Based in New Zealand, International Volunteer HQ was started in 2007 and has placed 42,000 volunteers in projects across 30 developing countries. IVHQ forms partnerships with local, in-country organizations whose staff members are native speakers with extensive knowledge of the area. This way, volunteers are given the best possible support structure and guidance during their project. It also keeps the program fees down.

In Kenya, projects range from $550-$650 for 1-2 weeks (except Mombasa projects, which are $100 extra per week) and include teaching, special needs, child care, music, medical, sports and women’s empowerment. They are located in Nairobi, Mombasa and Accra.

International Humanity Foundation (IHF)

Established in 1985, IHF is a non-religious, non-political USA based non-profit organization committed to educating the poor. Their aim is also to increase awareness in the world about the poor and their plight. IHF has volunteer pro-grams in Indonesia, Kenya and Thailand, all of which focus on getting volunteers involved with every aspect of each project, from hands-on teaching and care giving, to administrative and general management assistance. The organiza-tion’s core belief is that education should be free to all who seek it.

You will find stellar online reviews from volun-teers who had rewarding experiences. Their Kenya projects are primarily based out of a center in Nakuru and while the fees range from $150-$300 for 1-2 weeks, you will most likely have to pay an extra $50/week for accommoda-tion and food. Projects include teaching, or-phanage care, health, construction, famine feed and agriculture.

Love Volunteers

Love Volunteers is a New Zealand based organi-zation that was established in 2009 and services 35 countries. They have gained wonderful tes-timonials from many happy volunteers. Love Volunteers offers a wide range of cost effective programs through partnerships with local or-ganizations that are carefully vetted to ensure a safe, high quality and altogether rewarding experience for volunteers.

The organization believes that people can have life changing experiences in building communi-ties worldwide without having to go broke in the process. Their fees range from $220-$490 for 1-4 weeks, most of them rounding off to around $350 for 2 weeks. Best of all, you have several programs to choose from – either in vibrant, ur-ban Nairobi or by the beach in Mombasa. Volun-teer work includes teaching, childcare, health, refugee camp work, drug rehab, reuniting fami-lies, HIV/AIDS and women empowerment.

Go Eco

Established in 2005, Go Eco has been facilitat-ing humanitarian and ecological programs in 33 countries all over the world. Each year this or-ganization assists over 1000 volunteers in finding an exciting and rewarding project that will earn them a meaningful experience, whether in com-munity education and development, or wildlife rehabilitation and environmental conservation.

All programs include food, airport pickup, ac-commodation and in-country support, and in Kenya their big project is Maasai community growth, which costs $1200 for two weeks.

Agape Volunteers

Agape Volunteers is a UK based company that was established in 2009 and offers a variety of programs for volunteers who wish to combine the two wonderful experiences of traveling the


world and helping others. Agape realizes that all volunteer experiences are not complete without some tourism activities, and thus offers safari and other adventurous experiences at a reduced rate.

Volunteers are guaranteed hard work and a life changing trip, plus affordable programs and no registration fees. You will find excellent ratings and positive reviews online for Agape. Kenya programs are based in Nairobi, and include sports, medical projects, teaching, orphanage care and HIV/AIDS projects.

African Impact

Based in Zimbabwe, African Impact was launched in 2004 and is 100% dedicated to the development of countries on the African conti-nent. Due to its strong regional focus, its staff is fully equipped to guide volunteers through every important aspect of traveling to, and living for a short time in Africa.

It has strong relationships with local communi-ties and government groups to ensure reliable and constant support for its projects. African Impact has excellent ratings and online reviews.

Programs in Kenya range from $1420-$1820 for 2 weeks and typically include meals, accom-modation, airport pickup and in-country sup-port. Kenya programs are based out of Limuru and Naboisho, and include disability support, skill development, healthcare, orphanage care, teaching, community support and big cat wild-life conservation.

Village Volunteers

Village volunteers is a USA based organization that was established in 2003 to create capacity-building and sustainable development projects, in impoverished rural villages throughout parts of Asia and Africa. Its core belief is that partner-ship and advocacy are key factors in the heal-ing and renewal of areas suffering from hunger,

disease and poverty. It also strives to improve healthcare, agriculture, conservation and edu-cation, among other things.

Volunteers receive accommodation and the other basic inclusions, and can choose from a number of projects in various small rural vil-lages of Kenya. Projects include poverty allevia-tion, HIV/AIDS projects, women empowerment, healthcare, agriculture, childcare and commu-nity development.

All programs cost $1580 for 2 weeks. Online reviews for Village Volunteers speak very highly of the level of support their staff gives to vol-unteers, offering a safe and meaningful experi-ence.

Foundation for Sustainable Development (FSD)

Based in the USA, FSD was started in 1995 and has 20 years experience in achieving communi-ty-driven goals in Africa, Asia and Latin America. FSD envisions a world where all people have the opportunity and access to economical, social and environmental resources.

It partners with local leaders as well as organi-zations that are committed to change, action and social justice. Each project is launched with a serious asset assessment where FSD staff members really listen to the needs and priorities outlined by the community partners.

Kenya volunteer programs start at $2280 and can range from a few weeks to several months. They are available in Kakamega and Mombasa and include projects pertaining to orphanage care, agriculture, environmental conservation, community education and empowerment, wom-en empowerment, artisan industry and youth development.


CHAPTER 3 : Filling out your application

In the same way that you need to screen each organization before applying, the organizations will also need to evaluate your application and resume/CV to ensure that you are a good fit for the project. In most cases, sincerity and mo-tivation are more important than training and experience. Read the organization’s mission statement, and keep their values in mind when answering questions on the application or while writing a letter of motivation.

Almost all applications will ask for personal references, so reach out to professors, former

supervisors or anyone who will have great things to say about you. Make sure that your applica-tion clearly states your commitment to volun-teering (you don’t need to express a desire to travel, that comes with the territory) and what motivates you to pick the specific project you’re applying for(for teaching or orphanage work, the reason could be that you love working with children, for conservation it could be your com-mitment to saving animals).

Photo Credit: abroaderview.org


CHAPTER 4 : Getting Ready to Volunteer in Kenya

Now that you’ve found the perfect project, it’s time to get ready for the trip. If you’ve done any type of international travel before, you would be aware that these preliminary steps require time, money and research. They also involve preparing a host of documents and get-ting appointments, from travel insurance, to vaccines, to getting your visa.

It is recommended that you start planning at least 2 months in advance to secure the best travel rates. Raise money if needed and be com-pletely prepared for the trip.

Visa and passport assistance

Visa - Kenya requires an entry visa for travelers from most European countries, the UK and the

USA. The most convenient and flexible option for volunteers would be a multiple journey visa, which costs $100 and allows multiple entries to the country within a 6 or 12 month period, depending on the circumstances.

You must apply for a visa at least one week be-fore traveling (though longer is recommended) and have a passport valid for at least 6 months. Vaccination against yellow fever and cholera (not mandatory), proof of financial stability and a letter from your program to show the purpose of your visit will be needed. As visa require-ments tend to change, it is best if you check with your organization for specific, up-to-date requirements.

Passport - To enter Kenya, you must have a valid passport for at least 6 months and there must

Photo Credit: globaldentalrelief.org


be room (a blank page or 2) in your passport booklet for the visa stamp. Consult with local authorities for your country’s specific require-ments including approval time, application fees and necessary documents for obtaining a new or renewed passport. US citizens can expect to pay $110 and a wait period of 4-6 weeks.

Vaccinations

According to the Center for Disease Control, it is recommended that you check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least 4-6 weeks before traveling to Kenya. Standard vac-cines for any country are MMR (measles-mumps-rubella), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chicken pox), polio and a flu shot.

For Kenya, most travelers also get Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines, as well as prescription drugs to prevent malaria; plus a yellow fever vaccine depending on what specific area of Kenya you will be in. It is best to consult this website and let your doctor have the final word: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/kenya

Air Tickets

The cost of your ticket is no doubt a big portion of your trip budget, and a necessary evil related to flying 12-15 hours across the globe – it also depends on where you are traveling from. The bad news is that it is most expensive during the dry and desirable safari season. But with enough research and planning you can probably secure a good price through a discount travel website.

Raising Funds

If you need money for your volunteer project, you can build a fundraising campaign that seeks support from your personal network and be-yond. The first step is to calculate an estimated budget for your entire trip, including airfare, program and application fees, immunization,

travel insurance, spending money and any other expenses that come to mind. The numbers to the right of your equal sign will probably be significant, as volunteering in Kenya is no small investment.

The good news is that you’re on a brave mission with a noble and selfless cause that will make people proud and happy to support you within their means. With the help of social media, personal fundraising campaigns have never been easier or more efficient - Go Fund Me and Rally.org are two popular sites for volunteer related and other types of fundraising. With just a few short clicks, a sincere and well written cam-paign can appear on the Facebook feed of your 600 closest friends. Hopefully, most of them will share the post.

However, don’t rely only on social media. You should still hunt for scholarships, see if your university offers grants and send a few good old fashioned letters with those ancient things called stamps in the mail; particularly if you are targeting business owners or people you don’t know very well. It makes the request formal and shows that you made more effort.

Don’t assume that no one would want to support a project with a cause. People are especially inclined to want to help someone they know. So pick up the phone and call your dentist, doc-tor and your parents’ friends. Keep track of the pace at which the donations bring you closer and closer to your goal – this will provide extra motivation for your fundraising efforts.

Suggested books to read

A guidebook will give you basic tourist informa-tion, but to truly understand the people and culture of Kenya it is better to get some deeper insight into the history, culture and environ-ment. Look for a work of historical nonfiction about early settlers or a biography about one of the country’s modern day local heroes, like Wangari Maathai.


Here are some suggestions: West with the Night by Beryl Markham, The Flame Trees of Thika by Elspeth Huxley, Straight On Till Morning by Mary Lovell, Out of Africa by Isak Dinesen

Packing Advice

While preparing for your volunteer project in Kenya, it is important to bring everything you might need while trying to pack as light as pos-sible. The requirements might vary according to where you’ll be.

Extra camera batteries and electronics are rel-evant for safaris that you will want to document for life. Carrying modest clothing (long skirts) is a must if you will be traveling to Muslim areas. Make a copy of your passport, and don’t take anything that would be absolutely tragic to lose, (no expensive jewelry!).

Here’s a basic list, but be sure to check with your organization for extra suggestions:

▪ Passport and all travel documents including travel insurance

▪ Limited cash ▪ A secure money belt, security pouch, docu-

ment organizer ▪ All air, train and various transportation tick-

ets ▪ Travel itinerary ▪ Bathing suit and beachwear ▪ Insect repellent ▪ Malaria pills and any prescribed medication ▪ Mosquito net ▪ Sunglasses ▪ Sun block ▪ Guidebook ▪ Credit cards & travelers checks ▪ Backpack for daily activities such as hiking ▪ Suitcase or duffle bag ▪ Sweater and one warm outfit for mountain

and evening weather ▪ Windbreaker ▪ Long sleeve lightweight shirts to protect

from sun and insects ▪ Plenty of light clothing for spring/summer ▪ Toiletries (razors, lotion etc) ▪ Electronics - laptop, chargers, batteries etc ▪ Camera ▪ First aid kit ▪ Sunscreen ▪ Wristwatch ▪ Raincoat or poncho & umbrella ▪ Towel ▪ Contact lenses with case and cleaning kit ▪ Clothing that’s appropriate for your project

(business attire if necessary) ▪ Travel alarm clock ▪ Personal entertainment ▪ Anything else you think you will want or

need ▪ Hat, if possible with net for insects, brim

and chin strap ▪ Bandana (for dust and washing) ▪ Comfortable and breathable socks ▪ Undergarments and sleepwear

Gifts for Project

Don’t go on a spending spree, but it’s nice to take a token of appreciation for your host family or children that you might be working with on your project. Select one or two items that sym-bolize the culture of your home country; some-thing along the lines of what you might take for a distant relative in another country.


CHAPTER 5 : Information you must know before you volunteer

Project details and what to expect when volun-teering in Kenya

There is no such thing as too much information when embarking on a project in a foreign coun-try, especially if you’ve never done volunteer work before. The first step in managing your own expectations is to know what is expected of you on a daily basis during your assignment.

Here are some important facts for you to con-firm:

The name of your project. Exact project location, address and contact details including phone number, email address, website, and social media webpages.

Your specific job role, duties and responsibili-ties. Your daily schedule, including any break timings. Dress code and any other dress recommenda-tions (warm or light clothing, conservative or casual etc). All rules and regulations that you must follow. Number of people that you are responsible for. Daily transportation details (to and from your project) plus safety instructions for returning to your host family after dark. Number of other staff members and volunteers.

Get to know your Host Family

Living with a host family is a major benefit to volunteering. It is the closest you’ll get to ex-periencing life through the eyes of the Kenyan


people and adds a personal element to your experience in the country. These are the peo-ple with whom you will live and share meals, hopefully forming a friendship based on posi-tive cultural exchange. It will be a good idea to familiarize yourself by learning as much as pos-sible about their lifestyles and customs before you arrive.

Some good questions to ask your organization about the host family are:

• How many members are there in the host family household? What are their ages/gen-der/ relationships with one another?

• Did they host volunteers in the past, and if so, can I get references from any of those volunteers?

• What is their religion, how is it observed and how does it affect how I should dress or act in their household?

• Do I get a separate bedroom for myself? • Is hot water something I can expect? • What is the best way to do my laundry?• When are meals served?• Are there any rules, regulations or curfew for

volunteers?• How far is their home from my volunteer

project?• When I’m not volunteering, how close is

their home to buses, trains or means of transportation?

Local support

Before leaving for Kenya, obtain all informa-tion pertaining to what type of local in-country support you will have. Find out who your project coordinator is, and get their full contact infor-mation.

Is there an office with full-time staff available to support you? If so, find out their hours of op-eration and proximity to your accommodation. Make sure that there’s at least one person you can contact 24/7 in case of any major problem

or an emergency.

Make the Final Call

Make a list of last minute questions; current weather conditions, details about your host family and anything else about the project that still needs clarity. Make one final call to your in-country coordinator to get answers to these questions and also make sure that they have your flight details.

Since you’ll be meeting someone at the airport, it’s a good idea to exchange physical descrip-tions and confirm exactly where at the airport you’ll be meeting them.


CHAPTER 6: Arriving and Volunteering

Photo Credit: african-adventures.co.uk

There are certain factors that determine how much you will get out of this experience; mainly your attitude, flexible mindset, the ability to manage change, and awareness of the differ-ence in your surroundings.

Applying for the program and securing funding and travel details is what gets you to Kenya. Your willingness to adapt to a new culture and keep a positive outlook on the whole experience is what will get you (happily) through the pro-ject and offer you the biggest opportunity for personal growth.

How to make your volunteer experience rewarding

Whether you’re in Kenya for 2 weeks or 2 months, time has a way of racing by. Hence, it

is important to seek value in every moment, not simply go day-to-day through the motions.

Here are some tips on how you can make the most of this experience:

Have the right expectations - You are on a journey towards discovering a new society and implementing ways to help its growth. Peo-ple’s mannerisms and customs may come as a surprise, and your volunteer project will likely include some tasks that aren’t exciting. The more your expectations lie in what you can contribute, the more passionate you’ll be about learning and doing a fantastic job regardless of environmental factors (weather, personalities and job conditions).

Address problems immediately - Your project


coordinator is there to support you, from get-ting acclimatized with your host family to get-ting adjusted to the project assignment. They know the local area inside out and can help you manage any situation, so make sure their phone number is always with you. Have it writ-ten down on a piece of paper in case your phone gets lost for some reason. You should be able to contact them at any time.

Do not expect luxury/comfort and don’t com-plain about small things - Your accommodation could be anything from shared volunteer housing to a rural village hut – don’t expect first world conveniences and luxuries. Part of being a role model to a community is being adaptable and nonjudgmental about the environment, espe-cially as a guest with a host family who might not have air-conditioning or hot water. Make sure that your health needs are met, but don’t expect a western standard of living.

Take everything as an adventure - You don’t know what might come up; buses and trains might be unpredictable, directions might lead you to the wrong place, even with a map. It’s difficult to know what situations might arise when traveling in any foreign country. You could be working closely with another volunteer whose personality you don’t understand. The more calmly you react to any situation the bet-ter it will be for you.

Do not try to teach or be a guru - The people of Kenya have a way of life that’s almost the polar opposite from what you might be used to. Re-member that you aren’t there to try to change their beliefs or teach them western values. Make sure that all education is focused on the goals of the project – teaching English or health awareness, for example. You are not there to change their culture.

Feel happy for what you could do - There’s a reason why these grassroots projects go on for

several years. It is impossible for one volunteer to fully transform a community in two weeks, or even a few months. Take comfort in knowing that the next round of volunteers will pick up where you left off, even if you don’t see a dras-tic change in the time that you are there. Every task that you successfully complete contributes positively to people’s (or animals’) lives.

Try to enjoy the local culture and food - They speak Swahili, and some other regional languag-es, and draw from several different tribal socie-ties and nearby continents. From desert clothing to ritual dances and ancient customs, the peo-ple of Kenya have an organic, eclectic tradition to share. You can best find this by attending local festivals, going to museums or cultural performances and treating yourself to the dif-ferent traditional types of food that has Indian, Arabic and African influences.

Safety while volunteering in Kenya

Kenya is a place to be financially and basically careful, but do not be paranoid. It is a very poor country where people are targeted mainly for robbery and crimes against their wealth, not as victims of violence.

Cities like Nairobi are particularly known for theft and petty crime, so keep certain basics in mind. Don’t carry lots of cash or wear flashy jewelry. Don’t walk alone at night or lose sight and grasp of your bags. Most rural areas of Kenya have far less problems with crime, but you should be careful everywhere.

Other than theft, you might experience verbal or sexual harassment – the best safety precau-tion is to travel with at least one friend, be aware of your surroundings and always stick to neighborhoods that are considered safe.

Dos & don’ts in Kenya

Dos:


• Try and get to one of the national parks, or on a safari if you can. Wildlife that you can see and feel is the heart of life in Kenya!

• Attend at least one Maasai market; you’ll see all sorts of handmade crafts, jewelry and clothing. It’s the perfect opportunity to purchase a tangible memory of Kenya to take home.

• Ask about basic laws you’ll need to know, such as not walking across the street on your cell phones or non-smoking laws.

• Keep your belongings with you at all times. • Have Kenyan tea and coffee, both are among

the world’s best!• Also try their delicious barbecue, called Ny-

ama Choma. • Try to learn a little Swahili, just to gain some

insight into the other official language be-sides English.

• Make friends. Be nice to children, and friendly and helpful to your fellow volun-teers.

• Be a warm and friendly guest to your host family.

• Be prepared for the great outdoors. Make sure to have the proper packing list for safaris and any other adventures you might decide to take.

Don’ts:

• Forget to confirm rates with taxi drivers before taking a ride. Many of them don’t operate on a meter system, so make sure you understand the price and negotiate if possible. Try to get a recommendation for a taxi from a local.

• Carry large amounts of cash. There’s a mo-bile money revolution going on in Kenya, allowing you to balance cash, credit and mobile money by registering a SIM card and using it in certain places to make purchases (local supermarkets, stores, cab fare). This might be easier if you are in an urban city area of Kenya, but it’s worth looking into.

• Walk alone at night in big cities, on empty beaches…or anywhere, really.

• Drink tap water.

• Carry a lot of camera equipment, especially in cities.

• Eat at a place that seems unclean; be wary of street food you purchase.

Culture Shock

When planting yourself in a foreign country with completely different customs, conditions and security concerns, you might sometimes have a reaction that could be physical, mental or emo-tional; this is what’s known in the travel word as culture shock. It is most commonly distinguished as a sense of confusion, uncertainty, mild anxi-ety and homesickness. This will pass, and it’s important not to let it get the better of you and ruin your experience. Here are some tips to help you deal with culture shock:

• Develop friendships with other volunteers – they are likely going through the same feel-ing of displacement as you. Lifelong friend-ships can be a wonderful result of meeting people through a mission that you both have in common; your volunteer in Kenya project.

• Stay in touch with family and friends through Skype or a program that allows you to video chat. It’s cheaper than what non-video long distance phone calls used to be – in fact, it’s free!

• Always get enough sleep, you will need it for your volunteer project to be a success and it will also help you feel better in general. Maintain as healthy a diet as possible, and try to exercise if it’s part of your normal routine.

• Try to find interesting ways to occupy your free time. Rewarding yourself when you aren’t volunteering is the key to a balanced trip.

Things to do in Kenya

You are a working hard on an altruistic mission that you paid and planned a lot for – it’s im-


portant to reward yourself on days off or after project completion by enjoying at least some of the country’s endless list of sites and activities. Perhaps your in-country coordinator will have some suggestions or even arrange for a group trip. Here are a few options to keep in mind:

Amboseli National Park

This a 392 sq. km wildlife reserve at the base of Kilimanjaro, and has Africa’s highest snow-capped peak. Have a rendezvous with lions, cheetahs, wildebeest, hippos, gazelles and large herds of elephants.

Mount Kenya

Climb 4,986 feet above sea level and touch the sky from this extinct volcano that is also the second highest mountain in Africa. Ponder about how something that once poured fire is now ice-capped.

Nairobi National Park

Ideal if you’re based out of Nairobi; Kenya’s oldest national park is only 8 km from the city centre. You can click a photograph of wandering animals with a city skyline in the background, or if you can’t, you’ll at least see lions, zebras and more!

Coral Coast

This is a must if you’re based in Mombasa, but it also makes a nice little snorkeling, sailing, scuba-diving, water skiing, surfing and/or beach bumming post-project getaway. Popular resorts near Mombasa are Bamburi, Kikambala and Kilifi.

Lamu Town

When else will you go to an offshore island close to the Somali border to embrace the charm of a

Swahili city with historic mosques and old Arab houses? Hotspots include the Lamu Museum and Swahili House Museum and Fortress.


CHAPTER 7 : Completion of project and follow up

Photo Credit: crookedtrails.org

Congratulate yourself as you complete one of the most honorable and courageous journeys of a lifetime. Now you are a veteran of the program, and an ambassador of volunteering abroad in general. Your friends and family will want to hear all about it, and you never know who might be inspired to follow in your foot-steps.

So start that blog, upload photos, share memo-ries and never forget to support a project you love. Give a thorough, sincere review or testi-monial on your organization’s website. And of course, be ready with advice and feedback to give to the next round of volunteers!


CHAPTER 8 : Most Frequently Asked Questions From VolunteersHow will I get from the airport to my host family/volunteer house?

Your volunteer organization should have an in-country coordinator either meet you at the airport or arrange for someone to pick you up. Make sure they have all your flight details, and get their local phone number and contact information. Exchange physical descriptions and confirm the exact time and place to meet.

Will there be support from staff in country?

Absolutely! All good, trustworthy programs will have a full-time in-country coordinator available to assist you. If you work for a large enough organization they might have a local office close to your project. If not, many of them will be partnered with some type of smaller local organization. Be sure to find out these details before arriving in Kenya, or possibly as part of your criteria while selecting a program.

How many other volunteers will be participating with me?

The size of each project’s group of volunteers depends on the size of both the project and the organi-zation. It is best to find this information out before you go, just so you know what to expect.

If I volunteer with my friend, can we be placed in the same project and be housed together?

Most organizations will do their best to try and accommodate friends who want to volunteer and share housing, but make sure to inform your organization as far in advance as possible. It might take time and coordination for them to be able to make this arrangement for you with an agreeable host family.

Are meals and housing provided?

In general, program fees usually include two or more meals with your host family or shared volunteer accommodation. It depends on the details of the project, and you should find this out before apply-ing. I am a vegetarian. Will that be a problem?

In general, organizations offer vegetarian food, but it’s important to check and make sure. Meat does play a big role in the Kenyan diet and even if you’re able to secure vegetarian meals with your host family or volunteer center, you might have to dig for good dining out options. Will my host family be able to speak English?

Since English is the co-official language along with Swahili, many people of Kenya speak both, and sometimes even their tribal language. Chances are that at least some of the members of your host family will speak English. Check with your organization to confirm.


Can I travel to other cities during my days off?

Almost all programs will actively encourage you to see the sites of Kenya during your time off. Just make sure to confirm bus and/or train schedules and times and always play it safe. Use the buddy system by bringing a friend to accompany you.

Do I have to bring my own bedding and mosquito nets?

In almost all cases you get a basic bed, and good organizations in Kenya make an extra effort to regulate the cleanliness and quality of your accommodation. However, it never hurts to carry a mosquito net anywhere you’re traveling in Africa in case you travel to an area where sleeping ar-rangements are somewhat open.

How will I get to my project every day?

This depends on the local transportation that’s available and any private buses or vans your organi-zation might arrange for volunteers. Obtain this information from your organization ahead of time and make sure that you are never in a situation while traveling home at night, where you need to walk alone on the street to reach your host family’s home. Can I speak with a volunteer who has gone?

We absolutely recommend that you get the contact information of at least one previous volunteer and politely reach out to them with any question you might have. What does the accommodation look like, are there pictures?

It can’t hurt to ask your organization for a physical description or photos, so you can know what to expect.

What kind of food will I eat when I’m there?

Typical dishes include ugali (cornmeal starch made into a thick paste) which is usually part of a hearty meal with stew meat and/or fried vegetables; sukuma wiki (collard greens) which is often prepared with ugali. Chapatis, an Indian influenced flatbread snack, and Pilau spiced rice dishes, are popular on the Indian Ocean coast. Ask your project about what type of food to expect in the city or village you’ll be volunteering in and what to expect from your host family.

How many hours per day will I be volunteering?

In general most volunteers work between 4-6 hours, but some projects such as orphanage care can be up to 8. Make sure to ask your organization about the number of hours per day you’ll be volun-teering. How much money do I need to bring?

Kenya is generally not an expensive country, but of course this depends on your spending habits. Most volunteers can survive on $25 a week for extra food and expenses beyond the meals provided.


This free eBook is just written to help volunteers. So please use this book just as a general reference or source

of information. We cannot guarantee the validity of information as changes in the field can be sudden. As it is

impossible to provide a definite or authoritative guide it is vital you verify information directly with a relevant

and up to date source. We cannot be held liable in any way for damages caused should you choose to overlook

this advice.

Volunteer in Kenya: The Definitive Step-by-Step Guide

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Transcript of Volunteer in Kenya: The Definitive Step-by-Step Guide