Volunteer Opportunities in India for University Students.

University is one of the most important periods in a person’s life. It’s the time when you learn, develop your personality, and seek new opportunities that can expand your horizons. It’s for these reasons, and many more, that many university students choose to look for volunteering opportunities in India. At iSpiice, we are well accustomed to helping university students achieve their goals when it comes to volunteering in India. Read on to find out what you could offer and experience if you were to follow in the footsteps of other volunteers and spend time working with disenfranchised communities in India.

Who we are?

iSpiice are committed to arranging, funding, and facilitating volunteering opportunities in India. We primarily work with children in the Indian villages to the north of the country. These villagers face a tough climate due to their proximity to the Himalayas, and deprivation and poverty are constant blights.

We focus on sustainable, holistic volunteering programmes that provide real benefit to the people in the communities we help. At present, we are able to assist over 100 children per week thanks to our work and the commitment of our volunteers.

We also aim to be provide a complete experience for volunteers, which is why we offer a number of day trips to allow you to see the magnificent sites that India can display. We have excursions available to the Taj Mahal, The Golden Temple, a Manali Adventure, and a Himalayan Trek. Combining these tours with dedicated volunteering work has allowed us to ensure that volunteers have the best experience possible, while allowing the important work we do to continue.

What we can offer to students?

We’re aware that students have more rigid schedules, which is why we offer placements as little as two weeks in duration. Our longest placements can run for up to 12 weeks, but the two-week stint is suitable for university holidays and thus shouldn’t disrupt your studies– though if you want to stay for longer, we encourage that as well!

We’re an experienced company who have dealt with hundreds of volunteers, so you can be confident that you’re in safe hands should you choose to travel with us. We pride ourselves on our ability to deliver all information you require prior to travelling to India, so you’re not left in the dark about anything. We want our volunteers to be aware of what they are going to be doing and comfortable with the requirements placed upon them.

A variety of different placements.

We offer a wide variety of different volunteering experiences, which means you should be able to find something that suits your interest.

The majority of our work is done with children, with education and work with street children a particular priority. We would be glad to welcome your support in this important area. We run English-teaching placements which are suitable for university students without teaching experience; if you’ve got the right attitude and patience, that’s all we need.

We also offer a number of opportunities to volunteer to work with women, seeking to improve female empowerment throughout northern India. This is important work that can improve the lives not only of the women of today, but for future generations of women and girls as well.

We also offer the standard healthcare volunteer placements. These are particularly suited to medical students, but this is far from a requirement; if you have a good basis of first aid and are willing to learn, then we welcome anyone who wishes to volunteer in this challenging area.

Finally, if you’re more a physical kind of person, then we accept volunteers to help with renovations and maintenance to buildings and facilities. Many of the communities we work with have little to no infrastructure, so willing volunteers who can help create better conditions for the citizens we work with are always welcome.

We believe we have a comprehensive range of placements available, ensuring all potential volunteers are able to find a placement they would enjoy.

Where you will stay?

While you may work in a number of villages during your time with us, you will be based at our Volunteer House in the village of Sidhwari. The house is always busy and abuzz with life, so if you wish to travel alone, you’ll be able to make friends while you stay. Western-style toilets are on site, and we go to great lengths to ensure accommodation is as clean and comfortable as you would expect at home. There are separate male and female bedrooms, as well as a general communal area.

All in all, we offer a service that any student should find attractive. Why not get in touch and begin your volunteering India journey today. VOLUNTEERINDIAISPIICE.COM

Teaching Internship Volunteer Programs in India.

Education is one of the most valuable things that any of us experience. Education allows us to expand our view of the world, explore our potential, and truly engage with the society in which we live.

For people who grew up in the west, education is standard. Most western children grow up just expecting that educational options will be open to them; and it’s easy to presume that children in the rest of the world are afforded the same privileges. Sadly, in reality, there are children across the world who would love to expand their education– but don’t have the opportunity.

In the developing world, and especially in India, education is harder to come by. India does not have the infrastructure, qualified teachers, or general standard of living that is necessary for a strong educational system. Although the system is much improved, and more and more Indian children are able to obtain a good education than ever before, there is no doubt there is still work to be done.

Be part of the solution.

If you have a strong desire to bring education to children who may otherwise struggle for access to knowledge, then it’s worth considering teaching internship programs in India. At iSpiice, we specialize in helping connect compassionate volunteers with children who are in need of educational assistance.

What we provide?

We provide a vast range of different kinds of education to the children that we help. As well as standard educational training in core subjects, we also provide educational programs that focus on computer literacy and women’s empowerment. We aim to provide a broad educational approach that is truly able to benefit the lives of the children we assist, helping to ensure a better country in the future.

As well as standard “book learning”, iSpiice also provide volunteer programs in India areas such as sports coaching. Exercise is vital for growing children, and sports coaching is a popular and useful way of encouraging healthy habits. Additionally, we provide private tutoring for any children who may need further assistance, as well as running summer camps that can be incredibly beneficial for both the children and volunteers alike.

Who can help educate children with iSpiice?

We do not require our volunteers and those undertaking teaching internships programs in India to have formal teaching qualifications or experience. If you do have these qualifications, then that’s great, but they are far from required.

All we ask is that you have a genuine desire to help disadvantaged children improve their lot in life and increase their access to education. You will need to be a caring person, compassionate, and have a high degree of patience. All of the classes that our volunteers run are small in pupil size, so you don’t need to worry about being overwhelmed, and there’s plenty of support and peer encouragement for all volunteer teachers.

What volunteering with iSpiice is like?

If you decide to take an iSpiice volunteer program, then you will be well looked after during your stay in India. We are an experienced provider of volunteering programs, and have built up a great reputation, as you can see from our testimonials from previous volunteers.

We try to guarantee that we meet the needs of our volunteers as best we can. You will be housed in a small village in northern India; the house is run by us, and is only used by volunteers. The house offers communal dining, meals on site, a recreation area, separate male and female bedrooms, western toilets, and even Wifi access as and when you require it. We go to every length to ensure that the house is clean and comfortable for all volunteers.

You will be sharing the house with other volunteers, so you can share tips on lessons and classroom management with those more experienced than you. The lively atmosphere at the house is guaranteed to make you feel right at home, and ensure you can dedicate your time to providing the education that children of local communities so dearly need.

We will also provide all transport from the house to the communities that you will be working with, helping to ensure your safety and protection at all times.

We help you to help others.

We know from our vast experience that we provide the right environment for teaching and education volunteers to make the most of their time with us. So if you want to help spread education to the next generation of Indian citizens, get in touch with iSpiice so you can begin your journey as soon as possible.

join us for your next teaching Internship program volunteerindiaispiice.com

Long Term Volunteer Abroad in India.

India is a truly incredible country. It is a country of spirituality, of history, of glorious hustle and bustle– though, sadly, it is not without its problems. Most of us grow up with a knowledge of the social and economic problems that millions of Indian citizens tend to face, and for some of us, that knowledge transforms into a determination to make a difference.

You may be familiar with that feeling; the desire to contribute, to volunteer in India and use your time and knowledge to try and improve the lives of others. Thousands of people volunteer in India every year, making huge improvements to the lives of Indian citizens. At iSpiice, we have coordinated many volunteering programs and experiences in India, so we have seen with our own eyes the incredible way that volunteers can improve the communities they work with.

Thinking of long-term Volunteering in India.

Most volunteering programs are relatively short; for example, at iSpiice, our shortest volunteering program is just two weeks. There is plenty that a volunteer can achieve in a short time-frame, but we have also provided options that can allow you to become a long-term volunteer abroad in India.

The longest we allow volunteers to stay with us is three months; a quarter of a year, dedicated to improving the lives of the communities we work with. If you have been looking for the opportunity to be a long-term volunteer abroad in India, our three month programs could be the perfect choice for you.

What life is like for volunteers?

As experienced providers of volunteering programs, we at iSpiice have gone to great lengths to provide an environment that our volunteers will enjoy.

You will be based at our Volunteer House, which can be found in the village of Sidhwari in northern India. Our location means that we have a moderate climate, so if you fear the Indian heat, you don’t need to worry too much, especially if you volunteer with us through fall and winter.

We are also well-placed for a range of day trips to popular tourist sites such as the Taj Mahal or the Golden Temple, and you can book day trips directly through iSpiice so you can be sure you will receive first class service.

As for the house itself, we have taken every precaution to ensure a comfortable stay. The house is clean and well-maintained, complete with western-style toilets and even Wifi internet access.

You will likely have to share a bedroom during our stay, but all bedrooms are same-sex only. As for sustenance, our on-site chef will prepare your meals, and you can eat in the communal spaces along with your fellow volunteers.

You will spend much of your time on one of our volunteering programs. We offer programs that cover a wide range of needs in the community, including educational efforts with children, women’s empowerment, sports coaching, and renovation work on public buildings.

We also offer assistance with health education, and even provide summer camps for children along with private tuition. As a result of this diversity, you’re bound to find a program that suits your abilities and interests.

After a good day’s volunteering, you can return back to the house and enjoy the lively atmosphere; you will have evenings and weekends off, so this is a great time to explore the wider area.

Staying long-term.

If you are going to be with us for up to three months, you will find that the house conditions more than meet your needs. You will also have the opportunity to bond with fellow volunteers, and develop strong relationships with the local community. You may even be invited for a meal by one of the locals. With all of these delights, there’s very little chance you’ll have the time to feel homesick.

The communities we serve are predominantly rural, with the main line of work for locals being the agricultural industry. When you choose a long-term volunteer abroad in India stay, you will have the chance to be involved in projects from start to finish, allowing you to see the progress that is achieved thanks to your efforts.

Long-term volunteering with iSpiice .

At iSpiice, we are committed to providing the very best environment for volunteers who stay with us for long periods. If you are determined to really immerse yourself in the volunteering experience and make your stay a long one, get in touch with us today to see how we can help you meet your goals. Visit us if you are looking for long Volunteering in India. volunteerindiaispiice.com

Family Volunteer Holidays in India.

What do you usually do on your family holidays? Do you go and lie on a beach or maybe spend your time at a theme park? Some families decide that they want to do something more worthwhile with their free time, and find an experience that can bring them closer together at the same time.

Volunteering as a family is a fulfilling thing to do together, and it gives both adults and children the chance to help others, learn about themselves, and develop some essential skills. iSpiice offers opportunities for families to volunteer together and to have an experience you will never forget.

Why Volunteer As a Family?

There are plenty of fantastic reasons to volunteer as a family, whether your children are teenagers or younger, or you even take an adult-only family holiday. If you’re going with children or teenagers, it gives them an amazing opportunity to experience something new.

They will be exposed to a new way of seeing the world and learn about the way other people live. Volunteering as a family can strengthen your family bonds too, and help you learn more about each other.

You can all use your different strengths to come together as a team.

Is Volunteering in India Suitable for Your Kids?

You might wonder whether volunteering in India is suitable for your children. Of course, not everyone is suited to a volunteering experience, but there are options out there for almost everyone. If you decide you want to volunteer as a family, iSpiice will help you make arrangements that work for you.

We can advise you on which volunteer programs work best for families, and you will be comfortable and safe in our volunteer accommodations. One of the things you might worry about is safety, but when you travel with a company like iSpiice, you can be sure you will be cared for and kept safe.

Volunteering with iSpiice.

If you want to volunteer with iSpiice, children under 16 can accompany an adult, while anyone aged 16 and up can join our programs alone. There is no upper age limit, so you can have a multi-generational volunteering experience if you wish. Our accommodations are set up to give you a communal experience, which makes them excellent for groups. We will work with you to find you the best experience with suitable accommodation for your whole family.

When you volunteer with iSpiice, you participate in one volunteer program in the morning and another in the evening, and you can all attend the same programs to work together.

iSpiice fees include transfers, your accommodation, food cooked by our chef for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and even Hindi lessons so you can pick up some of the local language. You’ll be driven to and from your placements and given everything you need to volunteer, including WiFi at our volunteer accommodation.

Volunteer Programs That Work for Families.

There’s no need to be concerned about finding volunteer programs in India that work for younger volunteers. iSpiice offers a range of volunteer placements in schools, child care, slum housing, and various other community projects. Programs working with children are ideal for families who are bringing their children along.

It gives your kids a chance to get to know the local children, make some friends, and learn about how Indian children experience their lives.

However, sometimes younger children might need some supervision, so it can be a good idea to arrange someone to care for them while you volunteer.

Enjoy Your Evenings and Weekends.

When you volunteer with iSpiice, you have your evenings and weekends free, so you can do what you want. You’ll have time to explore and to spend together as a family so that you can relax and keep experiencing new things. You might want to enjoy local activities on offer, such as yoga classes or shopping. Or you might just want to go for a walk or generally explore the area. We provide tours on the weekends too so that you can explore further afield.

Add Tours to Your Stay.

Our add-on tours give you even more things to do on the weekends or perhaps after your volunteering experience has come to an end. You can take a trip to the Taj Mahal or Golden Temple, or you could visit Jaipur and the Taj Mahal before being dropped off at the airport in Delhi. iSpiice can also help you to arrange onward travel so if your family is ready to explore some more of the beautiful country of India, we can make it easier.

Apply for Volunteer Internship in India.

Do you want to complete a volunteer internship in India? By doing this, you will be able to gain valuable work and life experience that will ensure you have a unique selling point when applying for future jobs.

Aside from the career benefits by completing a voluntary internship in India, you will have the opportunity to explore an exciting new culture, working as a key individual inside an organization to help those in need while improving yourself and gaining a new perspective on life!

Does that sound like the type of exciting opportunity you have been searching for? Then, you should definitely apply for volunteer internships available in India right now.

It’s Easy To Apply.

The application process for gaining access to a voluntary internship in India is simple. All you need to do is fill out a full form and include an up to date CV. Make sure that your CV includes any ans all skills that might be relevant to the position you’re seeking.

Once you have done that, you can choose from one of the many possible internships currently available to volunteers in India.

Amazing Possibilities For Helping Others.

India is a country filled with opportunities for voluntary work. Whether you want to work with children, completely physical jobs, use your tech skills or help empower the women of the country, you’ll find all the possibilities are available to applicants.

Look through all the projects available for volunteers interning right now and choose the experience that excites you the most.

Get More From Your Volunteer Internship.

There’s more on offer when applying for a volunteer internship in India than you think! As well as helping others, you’ll also have the opportunity to see some of the most exciting sites and locations of the country with incredible tours of the Taj Mahal, the Himalayas, the Golden Temple and much more available. Help those in need, gain experience and see some of the most incredible wonders of the world in a once in a lifetime trip.

How Much Will It Cost?

As well as a small application fee, volunteers do need to pay for the cost of their trip. However, there are lots of ways to fund your volunteer internship in India from getting sponsored to paid work. At iSplice, we’ll tell you exactly how much money you need and help you with ways to raise funds. If you need advice or expertise our friendly team of staff will be happy to help so call us today for more info.

What Will You Gain?

Aside from an experience you’ll never forget and a chance to explore an incredible country, employees are desperate for candidates who already have experience under their belts. If you are keen to stand out on the job market when you leave college or right now, a period of voluntary work in India could be just the ticket.

Of course, the biggest benefit is the voluntary impact work like this will have on your own spirit. It’s a great form of self-improvement and an opportunity that will give you a fantastic new outlook.

So, if you’re looking for a new adventure and the opportunity to help others apply now and discover a new world.

visit us  here : volunteerindiaispiice.com

Things Your Parent thought you about Gap Year in India.

India is a country that most people have never visited, but most of us think we know something about what the country is like. Thanks to various types of media exposure, it’s easy to have an idea of what we think that India is– but it’s also easy for a few myths to creep in there, too.

When you raise the idea of a gap year in India to your parents, it’s more than likely you will hear a few of these conceptions about what travelling in India entails.

There’s a good chance that your parents will tell you a few things about to expect, whether or not you should visit, and what to look out for.

If your parents have travelled in India for themselves, then this could be valuable advice that you’re going to want to take note of.

However, there’s always the risk that your parents have a few misconceptions about India too, based on media and news information about the country.

So before you finalize your plans, it’s worth taking the time to think through some of these myths, beliefs, and reported experiences about travelling in India and figuring out which you can actually rely upon.

Below are nine things your parents might have taught you about the idea of a gap year in India, so read on to find out which points have some merit… also visit volunteerindiaispiice.com for more information.

#1 – The food is very different to what you might expect.

If you have been told that India is not all about curry, then you can be rest assured this is 100% accurate. India is a country of many different cuisines; curry is just another dish that you may want to try during your stay there.

Many people expect that India will offer curry, more curry, and not much else, but no country can exist on such a limited diet.

India has a wide range of different foods, many of which are vegetarian, that you will be able to sample. It’s more than possible to visit India and not eat a single dish of curry if you prefer!

So while you can get a great curry in India, if you’re not a fan, don’t worry: there’s plenty of other options you’re going to be able to enjoy.

#2 – Don’t drink the water.

This is another fact you may have been told that is, once again, absolutely accurate. The water sanitation situation in India is very different to that with which your western body has become familiar; as a result, you’ll likely experience health issues, such as stomach upsets, if you drink water directly from the tap. It is therefore advisable to follow this advice to the letter.

You will still be able to keep yourself hydrated by taking advantage of the many options for bottled water.

If you’re going to be travelling in a rural area where stores may be few and far between, then taking along a few water purification tablets is an excellent decision that you’ll be very thankful you made.

#3 – Your worldview will be forever changed.

If your parents have travelled in India, they will likely have described it as “life-changing” or as an experience that “put everything into perspective”.

While these views are, obviously, subjective, for the most part it seems that India truly is a life-changing country to visit.

It’s easy to see why this is the case. The culture is vastly different from the one you grew up in; you will be exposed to poverty on a huge scale; and will see the world differently if you choose to volunteer with those less fortunate than yourself.

One thing you can be sure of is that the change to your worldview will ultimately be for the better, allowing you to see the global situation with a new clarity.

#4 – You’ll be a better person for spending time in India.

 As mentioned above, the way that your perspective changes having visited India is predominantly a positive one. As a result, many tourists to the country find that they feel they are a better person thanks to the time they spent in the country.

It’s impossible to predict whether this will be the case for you, but there’s no doubt it’s likely on the balance of probability.

When you see a country so very different from your own, you gain a wealth of experience and understanding that can ultimately make you a kinder, more engaged, and more compassionate person when you return to your home country.

#5 – It’s a very spiritual country.

Many people expect a hugely spiritual experience when they travel to India. After all, India is the home of yoga, Buddhism, and spirituality on a grand scale; the media portrayal of the country makes it easy to assume that every Indian citizen is a yoga master and lives with an endless supply of peace, love, and tolerance.

There’s no denying that India is a spiritual country, so that part of the myth is accurate.

However, it’s far from the defining reality of life in India. Spirituality may be more common in India than in other countries, but it is not a necessity, and you will only find your time in the country spiritual if you directly seek out spiritual retreats and practices during your visit.

#6 – You’ll be welcomed by the locals.

India is often described as a very welcoming country that is friendly to tourists. For the most part, this is entirely accurate. Tourism is a vital part of the Indian economy, and many major cities go out of their way to ensure they are an attractive destination for overseas visitors.

In more rural areas, you can also expect a warm welcome. Rural areas may have less exposure to non-native citizens, meaning you may attain a kind of “alien” interest that makes people want to know more about you. Embrace this and any hospitality that is offered to you; it’s all friendly and good-spirited, and will help you feel right at home.

#7 – The weather is always hot.

 India is indeed a hot country, at least on average, but it’s vital to know the climate of the specific area you are visiting. The closer you get to the Himalayas, for example, the more likely it is you’ll need winter-specific clothing rather than the expected summer outfits.

There is no “Indian climate” that applies to the entire country; the country is vast, so the climates change depending on the geographical location.

It’s also worth remembering that India suffers a monsoon season; a period during which rainfall is greatly increased..

You might think that this helps to lower the temperature, but monsoon temperatures tend to remain high due to the humidity the extra water creates.

So while India is generally considered to be a hot country, don’t expect non-stop heat! Check the forecast for the area you are visiting, and take particular care if you’re planning to travel during the monsoon season of July through to September.

#8 – India is overpopulated and busy.

 The western image of India tends to be based around the cities and, especially, Delhi. The images we see are crowded streets packed with people and almost no room to move– so you may have been told to expect the same if you’re planning a visit to the country.

The truth is that India does have a large population — over 1.2 billion people in fact — but a large population only causes an issue if the population is dense. India does quite well in this regard; it is the 33rd in the list of population density, so the country is nowhere near as overcrowded as you might be expecting.

India does have a large population, but this population is spread throughout a huge country, so overcrowding is not a problem you are likely to experience.

The cities are busy, but this is true of anywhere in the world of course!

#9 – You’ll see snake charmers.

 You are most likely to hear this from your parents if they have never visited India, or only taken short tourist trips.

Most people tend to associate India with snake charmers; while this isn’t strictly untrue, it’s also unlikely.

Snake charming in modern India is primarily a show put on for the tourists. You’ll see plenty of snake charmers around major landmarks and in big cities with a high number of tourists, but in the rest of the country… not so much.

You are more likely to need to seek out a snake charmer than stumble across one, so if you’re afraid of snakes, you don’t have to worry about encountering one at every turn!

In conclusion.

India is a vast, diverse country that has plenty to offer a gap year traveller. While you cannot guarantee what you will experience or feel, reading through the above should provide some insight into what you can truly expect from your time spent in the country.

Enjoy your travels, and see what other tidbits of information you pick up during your visit.

Visit iSpiice for More Information for your next Gap Year India Trip.

 Volunteering is So Famous But Why?

As the seventh largest country in the world, India attracts millions of visitors every year. In fact, 8.9 million people visited India last year which was a massive increase of 97 percent. Many of these individuals were likely volunteers, particularly when one considers that approximately 1.6 million people volunteer abroad internationally annually, according to the latest statistics.

India is one of the most popular places in the world for volunteers who are looking to give something back and to help others.

Volunteering in India has actually become so popular that it’s quite famous. But why is this? Is it due to what people have to say when they return after visiting the country? Is it the reputation of the culture in this beautiful paradise or the experiences that people know await them? Perhaps it’s due to the focus the entertainment media has placed on the idea of volunteering in India in film and television.

When exploring the trend of volunteering in this country, it seems that all these factors play a part as well as a few more that are certain to make people India a top consideration when choosing a new international location for volunteers.

A Culture That’s Hard To Resist. Volunteering in India So Famous But Why?

There is actually a saying in India that is quite well known which, loosely translated, means that the guest is your god. This idea has almost definitely lead to the fame of volunteering in India. When you volunteer in a new international location, as well as help people, you are also dependent on the kindness of others yourself.

You might be staying in someone else’s home, or you may have to rely on translators who can help you purchase basic goods. Rather than staying in a hostel, you might decide to live with a family and rely on their support and hospitality.

In India, there is a culture of giving to strangers, and the volunteers who arrive in this country always find they have a place to stay. In fact, by individuals and general society volunteers in India are welcomed with open arms. Volunteers who choose not to stay in a stranger’s home will still notice the culture for welcoming strangers when they are wandering the streets, shopping for goods or just meeting a new group of people.

The hospitality of India is somewhat legendary, and it no doubt sticks in the minds of people long after they return home from volunteering.

Of course, there is another part of Indian culture that has probably helped make India famous for volunteering, and this is the spirituality of the country. In India, there is a spiritual belief that everyone’s purpose in the world is to be compassionate and to care for those around them.

Many people visit India purely in the hope of experiencing this spirituality or to connect with it themselves, perhaps by practicing yoga under the guidance of true experts. But this idea also makes India the perfect place to volunteer. People might arrive in India to benefit their own life, but they soon discover that helping others is far more fulfilling.

An Eclectic Range Of Possibilities.

There is no doubt that India is incredibly popular with a diverse population of volunteers. One of the reasons for this is that there isn’t just one choice of how to volunteer here. There are various options that will suit different types of people. Since India opens its arms to volunteers, people can work in community schools teaching English or help in hospitals and clinics to provide a better level of healthcare for the locals.

As well as this, volunteers can work to help the many children on the streets of India. According to statistics, there are 78 million homeless people on the streets of India including 11 million street children. These children live on the streets with no homes or families, but volunteers who come to India can help them in a number of key ways. It is one of the issues that attracts so many volunteers to the country every year.

There are plenty of countries where there is a need for volunteers but very few organizations set up to help individuals find their way. In India, this is not the case at all. There are a wealth of NFPs and NGOs that have been set up to help volunteers find a place in India and reach their maximum potential helping other people.

It’s difficult to work as a volunteer without a solid structure to rely on and work with. In India, that’s exactly what people find, and the huge level of support from organizations is just one other reason why volunteering here has become so famous.

Media Attention.

It’s not just nonprofit organizations that have taken notice of the need for volunteers in India. The media has also been paying attention, and there are a number of well-known films that have certainly helped increase the level of support.

One example of a film like this would be The Darjeeling Limited. Chosen to open the New York Film Festival in 2007, the film is described as a birds eye look at India that explores more than just volunteering possibilities in the country.

It’s breathtaking scope has surely encouraged a number of young volunteers to head over and explore what the country has to offer while experiencing the culture showcased in the film.

Another film that popularized the idea of volunteering in India is The Swades. In this movie, an Indian returns home after working for NASA, meeting his relatives and learning about the needs of the local people where his family resides. It greatly reflects the contrasting lifestyles that people experience when volunteering and highlights the importance and rewards of philanthropy in India.

Aside from this, there are many more films that have embedded India into pop culture including the Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire that highlighted the serious poverty levels present in the country.

Or, there’s ‘the best exotic Marigold Hotel.’ While showcasing the lifestyles of India, films like this also encourage tourists and volunteers to visit the location and experience the culture they have witnessed on the silver screen.

As well as artistic interpretations of Hollywood and documentaries celebrities have also made volunteering in India famous. It’s well known that celebrities volunteering in a location encourage others to do the same, and many celebrities have endeavored to volunteer in India including Hilary Swank.

The ‘Million Dollar Baby’ star working in a Children’s orphanage through two months in 2016. As well as this, she spent two weeks as a teaching assistant in the country.

Feedback From Previous Volunteers.

One of the things that people are looking for when volunteering internationally is a fresh experience. They want to discover a brand new world, a different lifestyle, a contrasting culture and that’s exactly what people find when they volunteer in India.

This is clearly shown from the feedback of volunteers who have already been and are often eager to return.

Most of the people who volunteer in India have no idea what to expect, particularly if it’s their first time travelling outside of their home country. But, once they arrive there, they are soon swept up in an intoxicating world with people who are friendly and an entire authentic Indian culture to appreciate in their spare time.

When these volunteers return to their home country, they are eager to pass on what they have learned and discovered to others, and this encourages more to investigate volunteering in a place like India.

One of the other things that makes volunteering in India so popular and thus famous is that it’s safe. There are plenty of places to volunteer in the world where life can be dangerous for visitors, but that’s not the case in India. Volunteers back from India always express who safe they felt, particularly when working with one of the top volunteering programs.

A Whole New World.

It’s easy to forget that when people volunteer they don’t spend their entire time helping people day in and day out, 24/7.

Volunteers always have time to experience the country they are visiting, and this is another reason why volunteering in India has become so famous.

There such a wealth of possibilities from seeing the sites like the Taj Mahal Palace to attending festivals such as the festival of Diwali or the vibrant festival of Holi.

As well as the festivals, there’s also a fresh world of cuisine to explore. Volunteers in India soon discover that authentic Indian cuisine offers no comparison to the Indian food that they may have dined on in their own country.

It seems then that there are a number of reasons why volunteering in India has become so famous. With so many different possibilities and opportunities, people are encouraged to journey to this beautiful land.

Their stories have attracted the attention of the media, and when people do visit, they find a culture of giving like no other in the world today. As such Volunteering in India has become idea that is attractive to people from all over the world, eager to explore this fascinating country and help its people.

Am I Eligible to Volunteer?

India is one of the world’s most beautiful countries; it is an incredible place and somewhere that many travelers dream of visiting their whole lives. There are few places as organically beautiful as India in the world, which is what makes it such a popular place for volunteering. While a beautiful country, India is also somewhere that is full of hardship and poverty.

For many people living and working in India, life is not easy. For this reason, there are various charities and aid organizations across the country that are doing all that they can to help make life in India easier. However, they cannot achieve their goals without the help of volunteers.

The good news is that today, there are more people wanting to volunteer than ever before, which means that there is plenty of help available to poorer countries like India. However, just because there are more people wanting to volunteer, that doesn’t mean that everyone who wants to is able to volunteer.

You see, to be able to volunteer in India, just like in many other countries, you must be eligible to do so. To learn how to determine if you are eligible to travel to India and work as a volunteer, read on – everything that you need to know is discussed below.

Am I Eligible to Volunteer in India? Who can and cannot travel to India?

Like every country in the world, India does have certain requirements in terms of who can and cannot enter the country. However, there are very few groups of people who cannot enter India, as the laws here are much less strict than nations such as Canada and Australia, for instance.

Of course, that being said, you may still need a visa to visit this amazing country. India has a range of entry requirements for its visitors, with these varying depending on the person and their nationality. Some visitors to India require a pre-arranged visa, others are eligible for a visa on arrival, while others are exempt from needing a visa altogether.

Anyone who is a citizen of Nepal, Bhutan, or the Maldives, do not require a visa to enter the country unless they are coming via mainland China, that is. It is also important to note that while citizens of Nepal and Bhutan can stay as long as they like without visas, people from the Maldives can only stay for 90 days or will require a visa to remain in the country legally.

People who have a Persons of Indian Origin card are able to enter India without a visa, as long as they do not come from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Nepal, Pakistan, or Sri Lanka.

India is able to grant visas on arrival for any visitors from Cambodia, Finland, Indonesia, Japan, Luxembourg, Myanmar, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, and Vietnam. Visas on arrival are only granted for 30 days and are only suitable for people entering the country as tourists only, not to work.

Citizens from every other country, from the US and the UK to France and Spain, are required to apply for visas in advance of their trip. So if you are from a country that does not qualify for a visa on arrival or visa-free entry, it is crucial that you get your visa sorted in advance of your volunteering trip.

Where in India can I volunteer?

Once you have been granted entry to India, you are able to go to anywhere within the country’s borders. From the larger cities to the more rural areas, once you have been granted entry, you are free to work anywhere within the country as a volunteer. It’s just a case of determining where the most suitable volunteering project for your skills and experience are located.

If there is one area of India that you have always dreamed of seeing, don’t put off of going there in case there is not a suitable volunteering position. Because the fact is that across the country there are various charities and aid organizations that are offering all manner of help and support, so wherever you choose to go, you should be able to find a suitable project to get involved in.

Dharamsala is one of the most popular places for volunteers to visit in India, as there is such a vast range of projects on offer here. However, while the projects here have a lot to offer, it is important to realize that this is just one area within India that needs help – there are hundreds of others to choose from.

What do charity organizations require from their volunteers?

Of course, that being said, when it comes to selecting an organization to volunteer for, you have to ensure that you are able to meet their requirements. The fact is that each organization has its own set of requirements for its volunteers, which depend on a range of different factors, from the type of work that is required to how skilled the roles are.

One thing that all organizations require is their volunteers to be 16 years old with parental permission or 18 years old without it. Age is vital when it comes to securing a volunteering position for a charity or aid organization, which is why it is so important to take your age into account when applying for a position at a certain organization or charity.

Then there is the question of experience and knowledge. Many charities and aid organizations require their volunteers to have a range of appropriate experience for the position that they are applying for.

For example, for a volunteer position in a medical facility, most charities would expect volunteers to have a medical background, whether that’s a career in medicine or currently being at college studying it, it doesn’t matter, just as long as you have adequate experience in the field.

The same goes for volunteer teachers, nursery nurses, care workers, and construction engineers – having certain skills and experience is vital when it comes to successfully applying for a place as a volunteer.

Many charities and organizations also require that their volunteers and aid workers submit a letter of recommendation from someone notable within their field of work or study, to help back up their application. That is why having the adequate experience and skill is vital before applying, as you may need to provide proof of your experience and knowledge via a recommendation letter.

When it comes to selecting suitable volunteers, most organizations look for people who are kind, caring and loving. The work that volunteers tend to undertake can be difficult and upsetting at times and can require some incredible people skills, which is why volunteers who have a gentle and kind nature tend to be favorites with many organizations.

Volunteers should also be open-minded, enthusiastic and eager to learn. The entire volunteering process is meant to be a learning curve and a way to develop self-learning. It doesn’t matter how long you have been a nurse or a teacher for, spending a few months volunteering in India will open your eyes to things that you could never have imagined dealing with in your home country. You will learn so much by spending a few months practicing in another country, but in order to be able to learn, you need to be open-minded and eager to learn about new methods of doing things, as not all of the technology available at home will be available in India.

Organizations also look for volunteers who have the ability to adjust easily. Life as a volunteer in India is always going to offer air workers and volunteers a culture shock, from how they will live to what they will eat, but some people adjust better to this change of lifestyle than others. Most volunteer accommodation and facilities are shared ones, which means that volunteers will need to get used to sharing their space with other volunteers and living in close proximity to each other.

Often, volunteers are chosen because they are positive people. All of the best volunteers are people who are able to see the good in every situation and work hard to keep themselves and their workmates positive. In situations such as when volunteering and dealing with sad and upsetting circumstances, having a positive outlook on life can be highly beneficial and can have a huge impact on how much you enjoy your time in India volunteering, which is why aid organizations always prefer to take on volunteers with a cherry disposition.

The fact is that volunteering is not as simple as signing up and showing up, there is actually a lot more to it than that. Aid organizations look for volunteers with a range of specific skills, to ensure that they are taking on people who have the knowledge and experience to deal with the task at hand. They also look for people with certain characteristics, to ensure that their volunteers are able to get on well with their work and thrive while doing it, which is what volunteering is all about – thriving in a new environment and honing your skills in ways that you could never imagine.

HOW TO MOTIVATE VOLUNTEERS SEASON AFTER SEASON?

Researchers have identified six key motives for volunteering:

• Values – expressing humanitarian ideals; Example: a person who loves gardening and is concerned about city beautification may volunteer for a tree-planting organisation.
• Understanding – learning or practising skills; Example: a person who wishes to learn more about the hearing impaired community may volunteer her time to tutor children with cochlear implants. The volunteer will gain an understanding of the challenges and triumphs children in this community experience
• Social – engaging in volunteer work to be with friends; Example: volunteering to hand out water together at a charity run. The primary goal is to be with friends while working for the cause.
• Career – furthering professional opportunities; Example: an event planner who volunteers his services to plan a charity auction will meet key business contacts and vendors in the process of preparing the event.
• Protection – counterbalancing conflicting feelings or sadness; Example: A mother who lost a child in a drunk driving accident may volunteer her time to Mothers’ Against Drunk Driving.
• Enhancement – augmenting self-image or personal growth; Example: A person who feels better about themselves as a result of their volunteer work.

Research varies on which motivations are the best practices, however many people cite a combination of several factors in their reasons to volunteer.

Volunteering and Serious Leisure.

A variety of volunteer opportunities in India and in another parts of world are available to people in their leisure time. Often, one chooses a particular volunteer activity based on their interests or the interests of a family member.

What may start as a couple of hours of assisting with the check-in table at a child’s hockey tournament can blossom into organizing registration for 30 hockey teams the following year.

Volunteer activities can become so involved that they consume a person’s leisure time. This type of experience is known as severe leisure, meaning the organised, long-lasting pursuit of an activity or skill set in which the participant is thoroughly engrossed. Serious volunteers may take their volunteer activities as work.

For instance, the person who volunteers in a community gift shop or feeds animals at the shelter may call this action her job.

In serious leisure pursuits, volunteers share similar values that form a collective identity among the group. Not only do the volunteers have an enthusiasm for the activity, but also they are bonded together by their interests and feel a sense of belonging to the social circle.

Retirees who meet every Tuesday to play bridge at the community centre may volunteer to teach the youth group how to play the game in their spare time. They share excitement for the activity, keep track of their scores and master-rating points, and are motivated to share their knowledge with others.

Volunteer Recruitment.

Most managers look internally for volunteers including parents and participants, as these people have knowledge of the sport and are trusted, based on personal relationships. For instance, the older soccer teams can assist the younger soccer teams through a junior coaching program. Not only will teenagers gain experience on coaching and mentoring skills, but they will also provide free, much-needed labor to the program.

A junior coaching program is a win-win for managers and students. However, managers must consider the coaching requirements, noting that national organisations may require coaching staff to carry accreditation, insurance, and clear a background screening. Further, parents of the younger children may be concerned if a professional coach does not teach their child. For this reason, junior coaches should work alongside professional staff, not as replacements.

Another option for recruiting volunteers is looking outside the traditional framework of an organisation by bridging out to the surrounding community. For instance, a baseball team looking to build a new member website may ask a collegiate computer department or a local web design company to create the site.

The volunteers could see this as an opportunity to build skills and help the community, and the baseball commissioner sees bridging out as a way to complete a needed task. One of the issues that could arise from bridging out is lack of trust. Volunteers who do not have a personal relationship or investment in the activity may be seen as outsiders who have questionable motives.

Creating a student internship program is also a great way to recruit new volunteers. Not only can a manager provide vocational training to students, s/he can also receive much-needed assistance that does not impact the budget. Student volunteers can help with filing, answering phones, organizing the office, and staffing check-in tables.

Learning how to use office equipment such as the copier, fax machine, scanner, and lamina tor are not covered in class but are essential in the day-to-day office setting. Internships are an excellent way for students to learn how to use this equipment, as well as build programming and customer service experience.

A word of caution: recreation leaders must be cautious of volunteers’ behaviour, especially those working with children. A screening process that includes a background check and fingerprinting should be in place before the volunteers interact with kids.

Volunteer Retention & Motivation.

Volunteers must feel welcome when joining a new group. To facilitate the process of getting acquainted, managers can organised an informal meet-and-greet coffee, team building meeting, or host a family potluck picnic. Volunteer groups can function like a clique, where new members are seen as outsiders trying to take over the leadership of the organisation.

Returning members of the group can feel as though they are a small number of people bearing the brunt of the work. Many times, they do not acknowledge their unwelcoming behavior. When this happens, new volunteers feel unaccepted and do not return to help in the future. Part of the goal of the manager is to bridge the gap between returning and new volunteers.

Staff must provide accurate information about the organisational structure and the volunteers’ duties. The outline of responsibilities and expectations will give volunteers a clear picture of their role in the organisation. This will help people choose wisely whether they have the time to volunteer and if the position will satisfy their needs. When a mutually beneficial situation is reached, the volunteer will feel empowered in their volunteer effort and keep returning for more hours.

In working with volunteers, managers must keep the channel of communication open. Interactions can include hearing the volunteers’ concerns and questions and providing positive feedback on a regular basis. Verbal expressions of appreciation for a job well done can accompany formal rewards and recognition. Rewards can be in the form of plaques, certificates, a volunteer recognition breakfast, free program registration, a thank you gift, or particularattention in print. Extrinsic rewards can influence volunteer attendance and effort.

Managers should strive to keep the experience enjoyable for volunteers. Enjoyment of the activity is a great motivator to return and even to take on additional responsibilities. When hiring new staff, a manager can focus on choosing people who are committed to fostering volunteerism. If possible, new team should have experience working effectively with volunteers and have a positive attitude toward having volunteers around the centre.

In contrast, a manager who has little experience or may not know how to communicate with their volunteers efficiently may be faced with a low retention rate. A volunteer who is left alone for too long on a task without feedback will feel unappreciated and may stop showing up altogether.

Research demonstrates that insufficient fulfillment drives volunteers to quit. If one does not feel they are getting a level satisfaction from experience, equal to the time they are investing, often they leave the group.

The opportunity alone for volunteers to voice their dissatisfaction is linked to positive outcomes. Once volunteers feel pride and respect from their experience, they will continue to volunteer.

Managers can retain and motivate volunteers to the season after season by asking for feedback through end-of-year surveys and informal debriefing sessions.