The Biggest Contribution of gap year India to Humanity.

Thousands of students decide to spend their gap year volunteering in India, and it’s a fantastic way to make use of your spare time. Traveling the world will help you to gain a better perspective on different cultures, and you might even make some new friends along the way. The Indian people are vibrant, kind, and cheerful in the face of adversity, and your contribution could help them in many different ways. In this post, we’ll discuss some of the ways in which you could assist some of the most impoverished people in the world and contribute to humanity.

Teaching the English language.

Women and children who live in the slums of India rarely get access to education. That means those people struggle to raise their families out of poverty and improve their lives. English is the language of business, and it’s the most widely-spoken dialect in the world. If all people living in India could learn to speak English; their earning potential and prospects would improve. So, you might like to spend time volunteering in India at local schools or education centers. There are lots of volunteering organisations in India that focus their efforts on that task, and so you just need to get in touch with a reputable company.

Assisting with construction and renovation projects.

The Indian government does not release any funds for construction and renovation work in some of the most deprived areas. That means people live in run-down buildings and children have to learn in schools that could crumble at any point. By offering your labor, it’s possible that you could have a real impact on the lives of local people. By renovating buildings; you could provide those living in slums with somewhere safe and clean to complete school work and increase their education. You might also save some lives by renovating medical centers and hospitals.

Providing health services and information.

Disadvantaged people in India often have no access to healthcare or information that could save their lives. There are many organisations out there that provide medical services and assistance to those living in the slums and other impoverished areas. Lots of people die in India because they don’t have the basic necessities. So, volunteering in one of those health roles is guaranteed to make a difference for those people. You could help to stop the spread of disease and ensure nobody struggles with medical issues that doctors and nurses can solve in seconds in the western world.

Those were some of the biggest contributions to humanity that students can make during their gap year volunteering in India. Of course, there are other volunteer opportunities in India and plenty more to learn. With that in mind, you just need to conduct some research and get in touch with suitable organisations as soon as possible to start the ball rolling. Hopefully, you can organise your experience within a couple of months and start contributing straight away. India needs your help, and the local people are thankful for any assistance you can provide.

Things that make you love and hate About Volunteering Abroad.

The volunteering abroad experience is enjoyed by millions of people all over the world every year. And while the commitment to making a difference in people’s lives is admirable, it’s not all sunshine and roses. Here is a list of things that make you love and hate volunteering abroad – read on to find out more!

LOVE: Helping change.

As a volunteer, you have the chance to make a massive difference to people’s lives, A lot of people talk the talk, but by taking on a foreign volunteer project, you will most certainly be walking the walk, too. No, you won’t single-handedly solve world poverty, but the children, young people, women and adults you help will remember you for the rest of their lives – just as you will remember them.

HATE: The big commitment.

It’s easy to say that you would love to volunteer and that you will be committed from the first day of your project to the last. But never forget that it is a significant commitment and that people are relying on you. When you work for a couple of weeks and feel like calling time on the experience, you will create a negative impact. Not only will you disrupt essential schedules, but you will also leave many people in the community you are staying in highly disappointed. Make sure that if you commit – you take it seriously.

LOVE: Creating bonds with people.

One of the things that volunteers always celebrate is the fact they make deep bonds and connections with so many other people. You will meet locals in the community you are helping, of course, and possibly change their lives for the better. But there will be other volunteers and travelers, too, from all kinds of places and from all over the world. They will be lifetime connections, and many will remain good, reliable friends.

HATE: It’s a challenge.

Volunteering is not for the faint of heart. The work can be tough, draining and demanding, both physically – and more importantly – mentally. Ultimately, you will be in a country with limited luxury, and even on days off, you might find the experience tough. And often, the levels of poverty you experience will stick with you and can be challenging to deal with.

LOVE: It’s great for the resume.

Most gap year volunteer travelers are graduates that want to take some time out and see the world before joining the workplace. And what do you think will look better on your resume when that time actually comes? Doing nothing for a year apart from playing video games, or helping a less prosperous community build water well? You can bet your next employer looks kindly on the latter, and it could be the difference between you and an equally qualified candidate.

LOVE: An experience of a lifetime.

Finally, volunteering abroad can be one of the best things you ever do. A lot of people report it as a life-changing and life-enhancing experience. So, if you can handle the challenge and commitment – why not go for it?

Things To Expect When Volunteering in India.

Things To Expect When Volunteering in India.

Volunteering in India is one of the most worthy ways of spending your time, but it’s not without its surprises. Many people in the west have certain preconceived notions about what their experience will entail, which is why it’s important to take the time to separate the truth from fiction when you are planning your trip.

India is a vast, wonderful country, but it’s also a country of polar opposites. Preparing yourself for what you are going to experience is vital, both in terms of your own mental readiness and in terms of the assistance you are going to be able to offer when you arrive. Below are three things that all people should expect when they undertake a volunteering trip in India, so you can be sure you know what’s ahead of you when you get on the plane…

1) India’s climate is far more temperate that you might be expecting.

There’s no doubt that India is, in general, a warm country. However, it is not a country of nothing but blistering heat, which means you will need to carefully prepare yourself for different weather situations.

Firstly, you will need to take account of the monsoon season, which runs from July through to September. Expect rain and high humidity if you are traveling during this time.

Secondly, you will need to research the region you are visiting thoroughly. Some regions, especially those towards the northern parts of the country, can border on being cold. It’s important to not just presume you’ll be in a hot location and pack accordingly.

2) You will see poverty.

Of course, when you’re planning to volunteer in India, you know you are going to be exposed to poverty– but few volunteers are truly prepared for just how severe the problem can be. It’s worth watching a few videos on YouTube to give you an idea of exactly what you should expect; while it’s not possible to fully prepare yourself, it does help to have a decent idea in mind of the reality you are going to be exposed to.

3) You won’t be working 24/7.

No volunteer organisation expects round-the-clock work from their volunteers; it’s simply not feasible, and these organisations acknowledge that there is a need for volunteers to experience some of the wonderful aspects of Indian life and culture too. So while you should prepare yourself to put some hard work in, there will be plenty of time for you to see and enjoy the country too.

This fact means that it’s helpful if you have an idea of things you would like to see and do in India during your time off. Research tourist sites and see what you might like to visit; any good organisation will usually have methods available to help facilitate day trips during your downtime.

In conclusion.

Volunteering in India can be the experience of a lifetime, benefitting both you and those in need. By ensuring you are fully prepared for the process, you can be sure of making the best of your time in this fascinating, breathtaking country.

Things to avoid in Volunteering with India.

Things to avoid in Volunteering with India.

A volunteering experience in India can be incredibly rewarding, a lot of fun, and can help you see an incredible part of the world for a small amount of money. However, as with all significant trips away in a completely different continent, there are a few things to consider before you go on your travels. In today’s guide, we’re going to take a look at some of your options when it comes to avoiding specific issues when volunteering in India. Let’s get started with some of the basics.

Giving up.

There will be challenging periods ahead when it comes to your volunteering experience, and when the tough times arrive, it can be tempting to jump ship. Don’t. People are relying on you, and unless you have a good reason – a bad illness, for example – you should commit to completing your volunteer work before you even leave. Avoid leaving people in the lurch!

Forgetting medication.

Unfortunately, you will get sick. It’s pretty much inevitable when you go to India, so to avoid any particularly aggressive bouts of sickness and diarrhea, make sure you bring some medication with you. It’s rare for a person to go to India for the first time and escape any lengthy period of travel without getting sick, so be prepared!

Skimpy clothing.

If you are a woman traveling to India, it’s best to avoid wearing skimpy or revealing clothing. While India is going through a period of open-mindedness, it’s still very much a conservative country. And it’s always best to presume conservatism, and then open up a little more when you find out about the area you are staying in. Ultimately, you will be stared at – a lot – enough as it is just because you are a foreigner. You will just be adding to the drama if you wear revealing clothes!

Tap water.

Moving on from the point about illness, you should never, ever drink tap water in India. It’s not like the water supply in the west, and you will often find that the water is full of parasites and bugs. Drinking the tap water can result in a nasty bout of illness, so always – and we mean always! – drink bottled water only.

Make a show of eating beef.

You can eat beef in India, but you need to be sensitive about eating this kind of meat while you are on your travels. Famously, the cow is a sacred animal in India, so you should always be respectful of your community’s traditions. Also, while we’re on the subject of cows, you can expect to see a lot of them – they pretty much have the freedom to do what they like, including hold up traffic on the roads!

The Monsoons.

Be careful that you plan your trip to India with great care, or you could get caught up in one of the monsoon seasons. They occur during different periods of the year in various places, so your best bet is to check beforehand. Don’t forget, the monsoon seasons can last for weeks at a time, so avoid getting washed out! List will go on and on about Things to avoid in Volunteering with India.

The Real Reason behind Working Abroad in India.

The Real Reason behind Working Abroad in India.

The concept of working abroad in India has become an increasingly accessible option in recent years. In the current climate, millions of people take the leap of faith each year. Some of them migrate on a permanent basis while others do it temporarily. In either case, it is done in a bid to unlock a brighter future. Temporary relocations may be a process of trying different places until finding a suitable place to settle. Regardless of the background, though, seeking new surroundings is never a random act of spontaneity. In truth, there are many potential rewards that the ex-pat might crave.

The Benefits of Working Abroad in India.

Before making the move, most people will create a list of pros and cons. The negatives usually revolve around leaving loved ones behind. However, modern tech makes it possible to stay in touch, meaning this is no longer a valid excuse to miss out on those opportunities. Besides, there are many potential rewards to be gained. This extensive list includes;

Learn new skills that can improve career prospects and life outlooks. Whether it’s understanding a secondary language or developing new ideas doesn’t matter. The experiences gained from working abroad can prove to be priceless in later life. Gain a better financial status. Some people achieve this by relocating to a country with better salaries while others opt for a place with cheaper living costs. Gaining a clear image of the full picture ensures that the best decision is made.

Embrace a new culture. This can range from enjoying the improved weather to finding love or converting to a new religion. Either way, a sense of boredom or unlocked potential can inspire a change. Working abroad is the most explicit way to do it. The list goes on and on. In truth, though, they are just contributing factors. Ultimately, they all feed into one bigger idea.

The Real Reason People Decide To Work Abroad Is…

… That they fear the prospect of looking back on their lives with regret. There’s no doubt that the possibilities are greater than ever before. Most people now know a number of people that they improved their lives by jumping in at the deep end. Nobody wants to miss out on those potential rewards. Moreover, the fact that most people now have fond memories of travel and holidays provides further inspiration.

Previous generations never had those opportunities. Without putting pressure on loved ones, they will often encourage them to make the most of those chances in life. After all, it needn’t be a commitment for life and people can always g back to their old lives if things don’t go to plan. In most people’s eyes, even this is a better solution than going through life without knowing.

The fact of the matter is that most people gain a lot from working abroad. Whether it’s discovering the place that they wish to settle for life or learning things about themselves isn’t overly important. Anyone that takes the time to research what other people have said about moving for work will find that the good outweighs the bad. This is coupled with that desire to test themselves to see if greatness awaits. As such, it’s no surprise that those migration figures continue to rise each year.

2 Weeks, Short Term Volunteering in India at the child care centers with iSpiice.

2 Weeks, Short Term Volunteering in India at the child care centers with iSpiice – (Integrated Social Volunteer Programs in Indian Child Education) Volunteer Program in India for Childcare support & help.

Cases of children being abandoned are on the increase, and so is the number of orphaned. These children need special care, they are delicate and all efforts are needed to ensure that they get to enjoy their childhood like any other children. There are a number of non-governmental and well as governmental organizations that have initiated volunteer programs to take care of the abandoned children. Most of these volunteer organizations in India depend on the well wishers and volunteers to run their programs. They aim at bringing up a loving and self responsible persons, those who are capable of living independently, take care of themselves and others. These children deserve to be raised in a safe and loving environment as well as a chance to make their own future. These organizations cannot achieve this alone, they need the help of well-wishers and people of good will. A lot of resources are needed, in terms of money, labor and materials; this is why they call for assistance. The organizations have been relying on volunteer ship to run some of the programs. They have benefited from a rich pool of expertise provided by both local and international volunteers. People have been volunteering in different areas, assisting the organizations run successful program and achieve the ultimate objectives, nurturing an all rounded person, one who can meet life challenges courageously. Several children who have undergone the program and emerged as responsible persons in the society are just some of the success stories from these programs

A chance to make a difference.

As an international volunteer in India, you can make a difference in these children lives, you can offer your treasured services and help raise a responsible person. Volunteer services in children home range from taking care of the young ones, teaching, assisting in income generating activities among other tasks that are needed in the homes. The beauty of it all is that you will be living with the children, these organizations have put in place accommodation for the volunteers, so the cost of the whole exercise will be cut down, allowing you to fully concentrate on volunteering work.

Different ages.

A home takes care of children from different parts of the country, and they are also in different ages. The kind of care required is varied, the small ones need attention and care, some of whom may be having health problems meaning that specialized care is required. If you are a professional carer, this may help. The local volunteers or workers may not have the expertise to do this, but your presence will help a great deal. You will not only be offering assistance to the kids but also providing training to the local carers. You will have come in as a volunteer in a children home but will end up offering training and skills to people who are caring for the young ones. It is such a fulfilling task, knowing that your volunteering in India will go along way in making the lives of the young ones better.

Program for Child Care Support

Is Volunteer Travel India Any Good?

Want to know if volunteering in India is an amazing experience? The short answer is simple – it’s a resounding ‘yes.’ With this in mind, here are a few of the reasons why India is such a popular destination for so many volunteer travelers all over the world. Let’s take a closer look.

It’s an opportunity to live in a new culture.

First and foremost, volunteering in India comes in many different forms, but the one thing that binds all of them is that it gives you a chance to live like a local. You don’t get a real, genuine glimpse of a different culture when you’re on the tourist trail, so if you want to see what life is really like, try volunteering in India.

A Once in a lifetime Experience.

Anyone can travel anywhere on the planet these days – assuming you have the budget. But if you want to move beyond taking pictures of tourist traps and actually capture memorable moments with real people, you can do no better than taking on a volunteer project in India. You might spend time with some inspiring children in remote villages, or stay with a friendly and respectful host family – and at any given moment you will be forming bonds and intimate moments.

You will improve people’s lives.

Of course, one of the main reasons for taking on a volunteering role in India is that you get to help people that really need it. Teaching English to underprivileged children, building schools or community buildings, helping out with the medical care of seriously ill people – there is so much you can do. Volunteering in India helps make your travels actually mean something, and will create memories and relationships with people that last a lifetime.

It’s incredibly cost-effective.

Because of the cost of living in India, you won’t need too much money to experience a volunteering trip away. Not only that, of course, but many of the volunteer agencies will provide you with somewhere to live, food, and perhaps a little spending money in return for your work. It means that all you need to pay for is, perhaps, your flight, some administrative fees, and putting aside a little extra to tide you over for the duration of your trip.

It’s a spectacular country.

India is a huge place, with so many different types of environment and cultures that exist within it. Whether you are into adventure or ancient history – or anything in between – there really is something for everyone. Given that your volunteering will usually require you to work five days from seven – sometimes less – you will have plenty of time to get out there and explore this incredible country. India is home to mountains, beaches, jungles and landscapes that need to be seen to be believed.

Amazing hospitality.

As we mentioned earlier, the people of India are very warm and friendly. Whether you are working in the heavily populated urban areas or out in the rural communities, you will be greeted warmly and looked after. If you want to experience the gap year or trip away of a lifetime, why not try Volunteering in India?

Volunteer Travel India

Incredible Facts Nobody told you About Summer Volunteering in India

If you’re eager to volunteer abroad, you may want to consider heading to India. India is an incredible location for volunteer work, in part perhaps due to the fact that volunteers are so widely welcomed. Before you actually head over to volunteer in India for the summer, here are some amazing facts you probably never knew.

Second In The World

In 2014, Philippines was the most popular destination searched for by volunteers while India claimed the number two spot. Since it’s been a few years, there’s a good chance those countries have reversed in popularity but even if they haven’t that still means India is staggeringly popular for travelers hoping to make a difference.

Why is India so popular with volunteers? Well, there are plenty of reasons that might make India a desirable place to visit. But for volunteers, it’s likely due to the massive level of opportunities available for helping other people in this country. You can work in schools teaching English, build and renovate homes or even use your tech skills. With such a diverse range of options, there’s a chance for everyone to take part.

63 Million

That’s how many homeless people live in India today according to a recent statistic. Sadly, 11 million of those are street children. The high number is likely due to the fact that India has one of the world’s largest populations. Families search for jobs and when they are unable to find work for months on end, they end up on the streets, looking for food and shelter.

This is an incredible opportunity for volunteers in India to help those in need. Volunteers can teach skills to mothers and fathers on the street as well as the children so that one day they have the education they need to gain a better life. Working with young children, volunteers can teach the families games, read them stories and provide human interaction. This can be a life-changing experience for both the children and the volunteers.

5000 Years

People don’t just volunteer in India to help those in need. They also come to experience the spirituality that the country is famous for. Spirituality has a strong presence in the culture of India and volunteers come in the hope of finding a fresh outlook and a new perspective on themselves and life in general. It’s not surprising volunteers think they will discover enlightenment in India. After all, it is the birthplace of Yoga, a meditative form of exercise that has lasted for five thousand years.

Atithi Devo Bhava

This phrase is the tagline for the tourism board in India. Translated it means the guest is equivalent to god and speaks volumes about the level of hospitality that volunteers find in India. Many volunteers are able to stay with families while helping those in need in local villages and nearby areas. When you spend a summer volunteering in India, you will always find someone willing to support and assist you.We hope these facts have encouraged you to plan your own trip volunteering in India. Who knows what you might experience if you do.

Volunteers in India Making a Difference ! Volunteer in India!

If you are thinking about working as a volunteer in India, you might think that what you do will not have a lasting impact. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth and, as you’re about to discover, the work volunteers complete in India is of vital importance to the individuals and society as a whole. It does help bring change to lives and the people living in the country who are in great need of your support and others like you. Here are a few reasons why your work as a volunteer in India will have a great impact.

Change The Lives Of Families

Volunteering in India, you can work with street children and homeless families, benefiting their life in the long term in two ways. First, you can provide them with a positive relationship so that they have someone to connect and interact with. If you do this, the children you work with will remember your presence in their life for years. Who knows, perhaps you might even return in a few years to witness the progress they have made. For many, volunteering becomes a regular experience and the individuals form strong, lasting relationships with the families that they work with.

Your work will have another impact too. When you volunteer in India, you will work with children and families, making sure that they have the skills they need for a better life. At the most simple level, you could help children to learn English. Or, you could teach families tech and computer skills. Skills like this can help them get a job in the future and get off the street and into a home. As such, your work could alter the life of a family forever, changing the world and helping them provide for their children.

Save Lives

As well as helping families on the streets, you may choose to work in the hospitals and clinics of India. Here you will be able to provide a vital service, helping trained doctors deal with serious injuries and medical conditions. You could, with no exaggeration, help doctors save lives and ensure that a child continues to have their mother or father around. You might think that the doctor is the main force responsible for saving a life or treating a medical condition. But a doctor and even nurses are only as good as their team. Many hospitals in India are dependent on the support and work of international volunteers.

Building An Infrastructure

Volunteers also often help renovate old buildings and ensure places that have fallen into a state of disrepair are rebuilt to a high standard of quality. As well as ensuring that injuries and potential dangers are avoided, volunteers also help build a solid infrastructure in small villages and isolated areas. This allows an economy a better chance to grow and one day provides an environment where people can depend on themselves.

We hope you see now that if you volunteer in India, you really could make a lasting different to not just the individuals but the country as a whole.

Challenges while Volunteering in India.

Who benefits from volunteers in India?

It is a well-known fact, that the people of India face many challenges. There are a lot of needs to be addressed and many gaps to be filled. The first nostalgically remembered volunteers were well-wishers from faith based groups who offered their time and money to the most vulnerable members of society.

Development projects set up by volunteer projects.

Feeding programs were established to feed the poor. Children’s homes were set up to open up to orphaned, abused and neglected children. Schools for children with physical disability were designed and medical camps were regularly set up.

Professional Volunteers from different backgrounds came together to offer their services free of charge. Their presence could be felt even by the local administration. They even challenged the government to adopt legislation that would increase the efficiency of voluntary bodies.

Current state of Volunteerism in India.

Things have drastically changed and the days of signing volunteer forms for soup kitchens are almost behind us. Philanthropy has become an industry that is rapidly growing. Small gatherings of well-meaning helpers are now replaced by flashy websites and aggressive recruiters. They target emotionally vulnerable people who are at a crossroad in their lives.

Advertisements promise a life changing experience that will shape their destiny. People from all walks of life invest their money into this trap because it comes with a chance of touring around India. It becomes a unique type of holiday. In addition, you get to help a needy person with your generous donation.

Management of volunteers with local non-governmental organizations in India.

The volunteers are provided with paid meals and accommodation. They interact with the beneficiaries of their charity in organized settings where one of the organizers has always been present.

A typical week in the schedule of these volunteers includes guided tours of the sites of India. They may also visit the slum homes of underprivileged people.

A critical look at the situation brings some concerns to light. We are forced to ask ourselves hard questions about the benefits of this short term volunteers with little or no skills to offer. The authenticity of the organizers of those tours is also under the spotlight.

The problem.

Some information was gathered by speaking with members of the community. These are local professional volunteers who work full time with the organizations. They earn a small stipend as appreciation. This is much lower than what they would be paid by a reputable company that remunerates at market value.

The first complaint that workers across the board expressed, was the burden of hosting these short term volunteers. The norm is that, every fortnight a new set of volunteers are red into the organization. They are trained hurriedly followed by immediate incorporation into the work force. They are taken from department to department until they have experienced all aspects of the organization.

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Lack of motivated volunteers.

Those tasked with supervising volunteers also have their concerns. Volunteers are usually uncooperative and they want you choose what activities to carry out. Even when they choose these activities, their participation is half baked. Often the permanent volunteers are forced to finish tasks that were abandoned half way.

Projects such as construction of low cost housing fall into serious trouble when volunteers do a shoddy job. The loss of materials is experienced often and permanent staffs have to redo the projects.

Their frustration is clear as this process is replicated over and over again. They begin to resent this group of volunteers who don’t help much.

Clash with the locals.

The jobs taken by volunteers are those that the local citizens would like to be involved in. Companies profit doubles from the money these volunteers pay to do the same jobs. This situation causes a clash between the volunteers and the local community. As a result, the locals resent the volunteers and blame them for taking up their jobs.

The solution.

To stop the buildup of resentment, some changes have been proposed. Skilled volunteers are most likely to offer the greatest benefit to the community. Therefore, longer volunteer sessions are seen as the way to make a difference.

For example, a three month medical camp will benefit large multitudes. In the same way, a 6 month housing project will see a large number of units erected and completed. In conclusion, a shift in mindset, will do more for the community than sticking to the status quo.