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Volunteering Projects in Ethiopia
You can become involved in working with children who have been rescued off the streets in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
You will have the opportunity to teach and care for 15 - 20 under-privileged children aged 5 - 14 who live together in the home.
While sharing your knowledge and compassion you will gain an in-depth experience of the country and its culture that will stay with you the rest of your life.
The Projects
Ethiopia Program
Volunteers will be responsible for teaching the children with a focus on English and mathematics. With the aid of a local translator, volunteers will plan and run lessons for the children.
Additionally, volunteers with musical and computer skills are needed to instruct the children in these areas. After class, volunteers are encouraged to introduce new games and team building ideas, teach the children new songs, languages, involve them in art projects, as well as generally giving them the love and attention they need.
Two days a week volunteers have the opportunity to serve at a local feeding center where meals are provided to the street community; a large percentage of this community are children.
This is a Christian-based organisation, however, volunteers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Please note that this project requires volunteers who are self-starters, who can take part in a flexible schedule, and who can work with minimal supervision.Teaching experience is not required, but volunteers must be prepared to plan lessons and run classes for the children. Volunteers need to be fluent in English and be good with children.
Gallery
Video
About Ethiopia
Bordered on the north and northeast by Eritrea, on the east by Djibouti and Somalia, on the south by Kenya, and on the west and southwest by Sudan, Ethiopia is a landlocked country.
The program is located in the suburb of Asko, about 9 kms north of the capital city of Addis Ababa. Addis Ababa, translating roughly into "New Flower," is the world's third highest capital city, at an altitude of 2400m. Almost dead center, Addis is a bustling city that can feel overwhelming at first, but has much to offer. The streets feel almost mellow compared to other African capitals and although there are around 2.3 million people in this city, it doesn't feel crowded.
Development in Ethiopia
Ethiopia is one of the world's poorest nations. Its somewhat unstable economy is due to two major and ongoing weaknesses: food uncertainty and an almost complete dependency on coffee exportation (US$335-million annually) for foreign-exchange income. As of 2006, Ethiopia's GDP per capita was US$800. Subsistence agriculture forms the backbone for the livelihood of around 85 percent of Ethiopians, and although much of the country is very fertile, erratic rain fall, pests, and severe soil erosion due to deforestation persistently keep agricultural yields unpredictable and low.
Tourism is thought to have great growth potential for Ethiopia's economy and foreign investment is now being encouraged. However, unfavorable reports by the media of the country's famines, ongoing strain with Eritrea, and the results from the last election have hindered growth in this area. Each year finds more tourists in Ethiopia discovering her potential for relaxing vacations, a birder's paradise, and a history buff's religious and archaeological dream.
Volunteer Impact
Volunteers provide assistance to disadvantaged children who have been rescued from a life on the street.
As a volunteer in Ethiopia you can provide love, affection, education and support to former street children. Volunteers also serve at a local feeding center where meals are provided to the street community. You will also provide education, inter-cultural exchange and understanding in Ethiopian communities.
What else can I do in Ethiopia?
Visitors to Ethiopia will have a moving experience.
Take an awe-inspiring trip to the ancient tombs and obelisks of Aksum, or the medieval stone churches in Lalibela. Spiritualists will want to visit Lake Tana and it's centuries-old island monasteries. Adventurists must see the Simien Mountains for some of Africa's best trekking, and enchanting glimpses of numerous types of animals from birds to baboons.
Costs
Application Fee – US $97
Your application fee is fully transferable and will secure your place on the Ethiopia program, (or any other GVN program of your choice), at a placement date that is suitable to you.*
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*Your application fee provides you with access to any of GVN's volunteer programs over the next 5 years, as many times as you like without having to pay another application fee! |
Children under 18 are not required to pay the application fee when volunteering together with a parent/guardian. (Except for participants in our Youth Tour program who are required to pay a US$97 application fee.)
Program Fee – From US$ 45 a day*
- 4 weeks - US $1997
- 8 weeks - US $2497
Placements longer than 8 weeks are available, please contact us or apply online for details.
*Based on an 8 week placement
What’s included:
| Accommodation: | Home on site. |
| Meals: | 3 meals daily. |
| Airport pickup: | On arrival date. |
| Training: | In-country orientation. |
| Supervision: | In-country staff supervision. |
| Support: | Pre-departure personal support from your volunteer coordinator, 24/7 in-country support from partner, and 24hr emergency line. |
Additional Benefits:
- A Quality Volunteer Placement
Dedicated staff with the sole focus of facilitating the placement of volunteers, reviewing and improving programs and supporting the work of our partners. -
Program Guide
Your online resource guide that covers topics such as country information, details on your placement, travel links, visa application process, and much more! - Fundraising guide
Your Fundraising Guide and Software which provides you with proven fundraising strategies, letter generating software and other resources to help you raise up to 100% of the cost of your trip. - Personal online journal
Which help you to communicate effectively and easily with your family and friends back home. - Access to a non-profit:
Contribute to the ongoing support of the charitable + educational work of community organisations.
What’s not included:
Flights, insurance, visas, vaccinations, departure from the program.
We recommend you allow a weekly budget of US $50 for your other expenses such as bottled water, lunch, personal items, beverages, and entertainment.
Schedule
Program Schedule
Start Date: 1st of each month
Length: From 1 month to 3 months. Your stay can be extended beyond three months on a case by case basis.
Please note: Program activities will vary from normal during September as the children are re-integrated into their families and a new group of children arrive. Those who sign up to volunteer in September will be serving at the local feeding center and helping with preparing the Children's Home for the new intake of children.
FAQ
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions which we receive at the GVN inbox. This is a great place to start if you have questions about Global Volunteer Network and our placement process. This information should answer the majority of questions you may have.
Tell me more about Ethiopia?
Ethiopia is an incredible country, rich in tradition, culture, and varied landscape. Ethiopia is not widely traveled by tourists and Ethiopians are very welcoming and friendly to visitors. Ethiopia offers high mountains ranges such as the Simien and the Bale Mountains, as well as the heat of the desert and one of the lowest places on earth: the Danakil Depression. The rock-hewn churches of Tigray and the astounding monoliths of Lalibela are just a few of the attractions Ethiopia has to offer. Additionally, Ethiopia has its own calendar system, thirteen months in total; each month has 30 days and the last month is one week long, hence the country slogan "Thirteen Months of Sunshine!" For more information we suggest you purchase the Bradt Travel Guide to Ethiopia.
Can you tell me more about your partner in Ethiopia?
Our partner is a Christian organisation which was founded in 2004 by a group of concerned locals who saw the plight of street children in and around Addis Ababa. Currently they run a home for children ranging from 7 to 14 years old. They are completely dependent on volunteer support and donations to keep the organization running, and hope that in the near future they will be able to bring in ten more children.
What is the climate like in Ethiopia?
Located on the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia has a varied climate, but overall is quite temperate. In Addis Ababa, where the volunteer project is located, daytime temperatures range from 15-18 C (60-65 F), while in the evenings the temperatures can get down into 5-10 C (40-50 F) range. Around the country the climate can be dramatically different. In the Bale and Simien Mountains one can expect cold temperatures, even snow and frost, due to the altitude. If visiting the Danakil Depression, however, temperatures are often 50 C (120 F). The rainy season is generally between June and early October. Throughout the year many people carry umbrellas, to shade them from the sun and to protect them from the rain.
What kind of volunteer work is available?
Volunteers should plan to help out in a variety of areas; this will include planning lessons for the children, teaching classes in English and Maths, organising games and fun activities, and working in a community feeding program.
Is there any time of the year when I can't volunteer?
You can volunteer at any time of the year in Ethiopia; the program starts on the 1st of each month.
Where will I be located?
Our partner organisation is located in the suburb of Asko, about 9 km outside the capital city of Addis Ababa.
Tell me more about flying into Ethiopia?
All volunteers fly into Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa (airport code ADD). You will be met by a representative from our partner organisation.
When do I need to arrive in Ethiopia?
The program begins on the 1st of each month and volunteers need to arrive a day before the program begins.
How do I get to the project?
Volunteers are met in Addis Ababa on the designated pickup day, and driven to their accommodation in Awelia.
Tell me more about the accommodation?
Volunteers will live in a volunteer house with other volunteers. There is some running water, but no hot water; however, boiled water can be provided for showers. There are sporadic electricity outages. The bathroom has a western style toilet, and a tub for taking bucket showers. Three meals per day will be provided.
Do you make provision for special diets?
Most of the food served in the house is vegetarian and sometimes even vegan. If this is not acceptable to you, you will need to supplement your diet at your own expense.
Are there holidays or festivals I should be aware of when traveling?
There are many holidays and festivities in Ethiopia throughout the year. Because Ethiopia uses its own calendar it is important to clarify which calendar someone is referring to when they give you a date: Ethiopian or Western. The main holidays are: Gena (Christmas, January 7), Timkat (Epiphany, January 19), Kiddest Mikel (St Michael’s Day, January 29), Good Friday and Easter (usually a fortnight later), Assumption Day (August 22), and Meskel (The Finding of the True Cross, September 27). September 11 is when Ethiopia celebrates its New Year, and 2007 inaugurated the millennium; they are seven years behind the Western world! One thing about Africa is that schedules are never written in stone; therefore, volunteers should use the break from the regular work schedule to soak up the culture and get to know the people in your community.
What age do I need to be to volunteer in this program?
You must be between 18 and 59 years old. You also need to be in good health.
What immunizations/vaccines will I need?
- Diphtheria and tetanus
- Polio
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Yellow fever Rabies
- Tuberculosis
Malaria needs to be closely discussed with your doctor. Preventative malaria medication is strongly advised, however malaria is not as prevalent in Ethiopia as it is in other Africa nations due to the altitude. Generally malaria only occurs in areas below 2,000m, and is more abundant in marshy areas and still water. Therefore, even though volunteers are most likely not at risk while in and around Addis Ababa, traveling on the weekends, and extensive travel before or after volunteering, may put you at risk. Some of these can be taken in oral form, so please do discuss all options with your doctor to see what is best for you. Some people can be affected quite differently to others by medication.
How does GVN choose volunteers for this program?
Each GVN program has different criteria depending on our partner's requirements. Every application is reviewed to ensure that the minimum requirements (as set out on the program page) are met. Next we look to see what skills or experience you have that relate specifically to the program. We are also interested in any previous volunteer experience you may have (either local or international), travel experience, and your particular interest in the program.
After reviewing your application, should we require any further information from you, we will email you to request this.
Do I need to speak English to become a volunteer?
Yes you will need to speak English, as this is the common language and also a subject that the children are learning in school. While there are many local languages also spoken in Ethiopia, the majority of people speak English.
Can I bring my family/children to this program with me?
Due to limited placements in this program, the spaces in the accommodation are reserved for volunteers only. If you are volunteering and would like to bring your family, you will need to address this with the partner organisation well in advance to find out if there is space and if this is a possibility at that time. This will be dealt with on a case by case basis. As the demands of volunteering are quite strenuous, physically, mentally, and most of all, emotionally, we recommend volunteering on your own so that you may focus on the community and your personal health.
Are there more expenses once I arrive?
The in-country fee covers all meals during your placement, airport pickup, a direct donation to the project, transport to placement, and supervision and administrative expenses of our partner organisation. You will need to budget for your other expenses like bottled water, personal costs, beverages and entertainment. If you are willing to live on a tight budget you can get by on $US20 per week. The other costs you will need to meet are your flights, visa, shots, travel insurance, departure tax, and your bus trip back to the airport..
If you arrive early or intend on staying on in Ethiopia for longer than you are volunteering, you will need to budget more money for this time. You will also need money for your weekends off, depending on what you intend doing. For example, a trip to Lake Tana may cost around $12 each way by bus (from Addis), and accommodation around $7-15 per night, while a trip to nearby Weliso may only cost $3 each way on the bus and $6- 15 per night. Other expenses you may incur include the internet ($1-4 per hour), buying extra bottle water ($1 for 2 litres) and having your laundry washed if you choose to do so ($2 to $4). Some volunteers may also choose to buy their lunches or evening meals in the city in order to increase the variety of food they eat ($2-15 depending on the place and type of meal).
How safe is it to volunteer in Ethiopia?
Ethiopia is considered a safe, stable country, with relatively low crime levels compared to other African countries, but sensible precautions for foreigners are recommended as you do draw extra attention. Foreigners are perceived as wealthy and although the people are generally warm and friendly towards foreigners, as well as appreciative of the work done by volunteers, not every individual is the same. The most common occurrence of crime is pick pocketing, which usually only occurs in and around the larger cities and bus stations. Volunteers are advised to bring/wear money belts while traveling long distances, however, they can safely lock up their passports, important documents, and extra money in the volunteer house, only taking smaller amounts of money with them into the city. Violent crimes are rare in Ethiopia, however, use good judgment as with any city, and do not travel alone late at night.
How many volunteers are there on site at the same time?
The volunteer house can accommodate a maximum of eight volunteers at any given time.
What is the course content of the training?
There is a brief orientation, covering aspects of Ethiopia and culture as well as the current needs of the projects. Additionally, practical training as you begin volunteering is given via other local and international volunteers working on your projects.
What hours am I expected to take part in the program?
Volunteers will teach the children between 9.30am-12.30pm and 2.30-5.30pm three days a week. On the remaining two days, a commitment to volunteering at the community feeding center occurs between 11am and 1:30pm.Free time can either be spent sightseeing or planing games and lessons for the children.
Are we able to do any sightseeing while volunteering?
Yes. You can travel during your days off, or you may want to spend some time in Ethiopia before or after volunteering to see more of the country. You can survive on as little as $20 (U.S) a day in Ethiopia. You can also spend much more if you want a bit of luxury. The Bradt Guide contains many traveling ideas and is very thorough in detailing places to stay along the way.
What clothing is appropriate for the program?
Volunteers are encouraged to wear comfortable but tidy attire. It can be hot at certain times of the year, however covering up is important not only for protection from the sun and insects, but also to show respect to your fellow volunteers and members of the community. For women this means long pants, skirts, and dresses. For men, this means long pants, or even nice knee-length shorts if necessary. It does get very chilly at night, so sweaters, fleece jackets, warm socks, and even a hat and gloves are encouraged, especially if you are planning on making a trip to one of the mountain ranges.
What resources will be available?
There are limited resources available but it is encourages to bring some teaching resources with you. Some stationery such as notebooks, markers, glue, etc. can be bought at local stationary stores, but do not expect a wide variety or anything you would able to get at home. You can discuss ideas of things to bring with the partner or volunteer coordinator.
How are couples accommodated?
Since there are only two volunteer bedrooms at the moment, preference is given to single volunteers. However, dependent upon the situation and space available, this can be discussed with the partner organisation on a case by case basis.
Who organizes my visa for my volunteer placement?
We strongly recommend that you apply for your tourist visa prior to arrival. Tourist visas are valid for up to 30 days and cost between US$40-60. Visa extensions can be obtained from the Immigration Office on Churchill Avenue in Addis Ababa and your visa can be extended up to 90 days.
Do I need travel insurance?
All GVN Volunteers must have insurance. You are free to take out insurance cover through any provider of your choice. However, as some policies do not cover volunteering, we recommend you check you are covered during your volunteer placement.
For your convenience we have arranged a comprehensive package specially designed for volunteering. It includes excellent medical and accident coverage as well as “loss of deposits” cover which covers fees paid to GVN, airlines etc. If you would like to learn more just follow this link: http://www.globalvolunteernetwork.org/insurance/
How do I pay my fees?
Your application fee secures your place on the program (remember this is fully transferable to a later date or different program if you decide not to take part in the program, subject to the terms of service). Your program fee is payable to Global Volunteer Network 12 weeks prior to the 1st of the month you wish to volunteer. Please note that all charges incurred by the payment of the program fee are at the volunteer’s expense, e.g. if a bank transfer incurs a bank fee at the point of origin, that is at the expense of the volunteer. Eighty percent (80%) of your program fee is refundable until one calendar month before the 1st of the month you are due to begin your program. Refer to GVN's legal terms of service for full details.
Do I need a police clearance document to volunteer in this program?
Yes, all volunteers in this program will be required to provide a police clearance document. This is because volunteers will be working closely with children and other vulnerable individuals. To obtain a police clearance you will need to contact your local police station to find out what their procedure is. Normally, you will be asked to complete an application form authorizing the check to be done, pay a fee and a few weeks later the check will arrive in the mail. A copy of your police clearance will need to be sent to GVN before your placement begins and you will need to take the original with you when you volunteer.
Volunteer Diaries
Amanda?s journey to Africa
Monday, March 28th, 2011
Wow has time gone by fast. Its 1 more sleep till I start this journey of a life time. I’m in a bit of shock right now to be honest. This is something other people do and it just doesn’t even seem real yet that I am doing this. My flight leves tomorrow at 6:15pm [click here to read more]
The countdown has arrived ???.
Sunday, November 28th, 2010
Well ………. for the first few weeks I never thought I was gonna last the whole 3 months, but I have, it’s almost over It was rough at first, but, then it all turned around very quickly and I’ve had a BRILLIANT time. Since I last wrote we have taken a trip up North [click here to read more]
Only a few weeks to go ????..
Tuesday, November 09th, 2010
OK! So, it’s almost been a month since my lazy ass has written. I’ll do my best to fill you in on all the fun stuff. All has been going really well here, time is going to quickly now. Before I know it, it will be Christmas. The kids are great, the weather is awesome, [click here to read more]
Please visit journals.globalvolunteernetwork.org for more journals and feedback from past volunteers
How to Apply
Program Requirements
As a volunteer in Ethiopia you must:
- be between 18 and 59 years of age
- have no major health problems
- have some skills in working with children, education, music, computers
The Application Process
Your application process is free and seamless, and if you are successful we will provide you with a choice of application fee payment options that include a secure online service. We also are one of the few organisations that allow you to transfer your application fee to another program at no extra cost.
Communication & Support:
Throughout the process, we are committed to working with you to answer any of your questions or concerns. During your placement we are also available as a form of support to you as a volunteer and will email you while in country to discuss how the program is going.
Volunteer Feedback
Evelyn
After 2 weeks at Mercy, 5 of the resident boys were returned home and 5 new boys entered the boys home. These boys spoke no English and were in much more need of teaching and help than the previous boys. we divided the group in two (old and new boys) and worked out a teaching program for them, which turned out to work really well. We taught the new boys the alphabet, sounds, colours, numbers, body parts, basic phrases and terms and did art, music, painting, football with them. It was really useful that between us we had brought a lot of supplies and I would really recommend to the next volunteers to do the same. Without the paper, pencils, colours, paints, flashcards and games it would have been more difficult to teach in a way that was fun. It was an amazing experience and i am so glad i did it. Its a wonderful but very difficult country to spend time in and it is something i will remember for the rest of my life. The children are fantastic and Namerud and Zena have done amazing work and given up a lot to help them. It would be great to see volunteers continue to contribute to the home but it would also be great to see it expanding to accommodate more children, considering the desperate need there is in the country.Chang
Your first priority for volunteering in Addis is encouraging the children's education as a tutor. There is one schedule which was made by me and other two volunteers from Canada but it can be very flexible. Thus you can try different methods or ideas after discussion with staff of Mercy Home. There are two computers, musical instruments such as an electric keyboard and guitar, and a Black board, that you can use. Currently, there are 8 children at the boys home and everyone is very lovely and has a good personality. Their age is from 7 to 15 years and they always admire volunteer and enjoy to hear your personal experience. Your work is not tough but it will need your initiative and much participation. And I think that it will be good experience for you to know about Ethiopia. There are so many good places to visit, enjoy and to learn about Ethiopia . I bet your one month will be worthwhile.Lori
"I still laugh at my initial nervousness and uncertainty about volunteering. It's been an amazing, eye-opening experience, and I'm so glad I know these eight beautiful, unique children who appreciate everything they have. While I was trying to make an impact on their lives, they've impacted mine more than they'll ever know." "I've never before known children so incredibly excited to practice their multiplication tables or to tell me about what they learned at school that day. They're all amazingly bright and sweet in their own ways. They're so giving and genuine and FUN."Articles
Eyes from Ethiopia
Ethiopia, a landlocked country in Eastern Africa which is slightly less than twice the size of Texas, has a poverty stricken economy with over 80 million people striving to survive. It is a nation that is well known for its droughts and famines and its long civil conflict and a border war with Eritrea. ...
News From Ethiopia
Application Form
Why Volunteer
At GVN we align with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', so we work with local community organisations in each country. What this means for our volunteers is that they receive a unique and genuine cultural experience whilst being immersed in a local community.
If you're
- Graduating from school and not sure which direction to take, or you're not ready to jump into full-time employment just yet;
- Ready for a Career Break;
- An 'empty nester';
- Retired;
- Or ready for a change or new adventure
Volunteering abroad could be the very thing for YOU!
If you're looking for something worthwhile to do volunteering will give you the opportunity to travel whilst making a difference in the community you are based in.
Did you know taking a Gap Year can improve your college admission chances and success rate during your studies?
"Harvard College encourages admitted students to defer enrolment for one year to travel, pursue a special project or activity, work, or spend time in another meaningful way" – Harvard College Office of Admissions, 2010.
International volunteering is a great way to gain experience living in a developing country, learning about another culture and experiencing a different way of life. It is a fantastic way to grow as a person, to develop life skills, self-confidence and self-esteem, and is a tool for self discovery and identity formation.
Other personal benefits include, developing international friendships and networks, social awareness, and building independence.
Volunteering can increase your employability, help you to gain valuable work experience and enhance your CV/resume.
"Going to a foreign country for a volunteer experience is a huge boost on a resume. Employers love to see a person that can think outside the box and work past their comfort zone. The added benefits of teamwork, foreign language knowledge, and plain old hard work also add polish to the volunteer candidate. Since business now happens on a global scale, the volunteer is armed with useful, and potentially actionable, information." – USA Today, 2010.
Reputable Charity
The Global Volunteer Network (GVN) is a New Zealand Charitable Trust (non-profit NGO) based in Wellington, New Zealand. Our Charitable incorporation number is: CC46460. GVN has been verified and approved by Idealist (the largest volunteer portal on the internet. GVN is also a member of the World Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (WANGO), and our ‘sister’ organization the GVN Foundation has been granted special consultative status on the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Prestigious web sites such as Lonely Planet and Goabroad.com have placed web links to us. Additionally, when you apply, we can provide you with contact information for previous volunteers if you wish. GVN is also an approved member of the Site Trust Network and you can view our verification page.
Recommended by Bill Gates
Bill Gates personally recommended GVN by stating "I'd love to see more young people taking action to help the poor and disadvantaged. Two places to get started are Network for Good and Global Volunteer Network." Newsweek Web
Proven Track Record
To give you peace of mind, GVN has over eight years experience and has placed 13,500+ volunteers since 2002. Read volunteer's journals and testimonials or speak to a returned volunteer directly about their experience abroad through GVN.
Volunteer Support
GVN’s specialist staff provide personal support to volunteers, assisting not only with preparation for your placement, but whilst in-country, and follow-up on return home. GVN provides comprehensive Program Guides, project resources (eg teaching resources).
Community Focussed
GVN aligns with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', therefore we work with local community organisations in each country. We believe that local communities are in the best position to determine their needs, and we provide volunteers to help them achieve their goals.
Recommended by CNN
CNN listed the Global Volunteer Network as one of 10 organizations that can help you to make a positive impact on the world around you. CNN encourages you to visit our website to get more details on how you too can Be The Change.
Personal Security
GVN offer an insurance package tailored specifically for volunteers. Partner’s staff are always available (24hr/7days), along with this GVN also has a 24hr/7day emergency hotline.
Kenya. 
Vietnam. 
Peru. 
Nepal. 
