Youth Venture

Learn While You Travel

INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS IN KENYA

OBJECTIVES:

The international volunteer programs of NEW LIGHT YOUTH ASSOCIATION are intended to provide opportunities for visiting friends from abroad to see Kenya and learn about its people and their concerns while travelling. They help enrich the outlook of those whom they meet and in turn develop a better understanding of these new friends. This way each one is an ambassador of peace and international understanding. During the last decade nearly two thousand volunteers have visited Kenya this way, from North America, Europe, Australia, Japan and other parts of Asia.

PLANNING YOUR PROGRAM:

Programs run all year around in different parts of the country. An individual schedule is devised for each person or group to meet their needs. Arrangements need to be made at least 30 days in advance of arrival in Kenya in order to plan properly. There is a minimum one-month's commitment with NELYAS programs. If possible, a commitment of at least three months duration will make for a more complete and satisfying experience and are required for long term placements.

LONG TERM PLACEMENTS:
These entail a more in-depth involvement in the work of the sponsoring organizations. While this work may be similar to that of the shorter-term camps, the focus may be more specialized. Volunteers can get involved with editing and publishing or the organization of projects. People with medical backgrounds can be placed at medical centers. Those wishing to work with children can stay at a school or home for children and teach English. They should be prepared to learn some basic Swahili language, preferably before they leave for Kenya.

SHORT TERM PROJECTS:
Participation in work camps in Kenyan villages: These programs involve work with villagers on such activities as sanitation projects, building construction, agricultural work and environmental improvement programs, literacy and women's welfare, health projects including use of local herbal medicine, environmental awareness campaigns etc. These programs are with non-governmental organizations devoted to the welfare of Kenyan villagers. (Programs are one to four weeks long). Other activities for short-term projects include the following: Helping in the administrative office in Nairobi doing office work and helping other local programs. Preparing and attending conferences on development, disasters and environmental issues. Taking part in environmentally oriented treks in specific areas. Participation in Yoga, meditation and natural health care training programs.

GROUPS:
Special programs for groups of volunteers can be put together with sufficient advance notice. This is particularly useful for college or university student groups for whom academic assistants can be provided in Kenya.

ORIENTATION:
It is necessary that the volunteers participate in an orientation program upon their arrival in Kenya. This way, they will have an opportunity to become acquainted with safe, low cost ways of living and getting around within Nairobi, while being introduced to the Kenyan culture. From time to time, NELYAS offers orientation programs in providing useful and practical information and helpful hints from experienced travelers.

ACCOMMODATION:
While in Kenya, volunteers may stay at a local project dormitory. Volunteers help in maintaining the facility. Accommodation in work camps is either in homes or schools or other public buildings. It is necessary to bring your own bedding. This should include a sleeping bag and a sleeping pad. Simple and fresh vegetarian food is provided on all our programs. Smoking, use of drugs and alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. Violators will be asked to discontinue participation.

COSTS:
Participation costs are very minimal. Please understand that some of the fees are not refundable. Please discuss thoroughly with the Director before you sign up for long term placements and understand the implications of leaving a program before completing your period of commitment.

Registration Fee $ 50.00

Work camp Programs $300.00*

(Includes one Month' contribution for Room, board and administration costs, pick up at the international airport and Orientation in Kenya.)

Long-term programs $600.00*

Monthly fees for Extended stay $150.00*

(Includes 3 Month's contribution for Room, board and administration costs and pick up at the international airport and Orientation in Kenya.)

All fees have to be made to NEW LIGHT YOUTH ASSOCIATION. at least 30 days before the departure date. The initial registration fee and first month's contribution are non-refundable. Other fees are 90% refundable with 30 days notice (50% with seven days notice).

TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS: can now be made through. NEW LIGHT YOUTH ASSOCIATION and can find the best air flight prices and arrange for other travel needs. Travel costs, outside eating and hotel stays are to be borne by the volunteers themselves. Contact newlightyouthassociation@gmail.com, edwams2@yahoo.com for all your travel needs.

MEDICAL INSURANCE:
Adequate health services are available at most places in Kenya. However, individual medical insurance coverage should be obtained before leaving for Kenya.

To receive more information on Short term volunteer programs and an application form send a self addressed stamped ($0.60) envelope to:
NEW LIGHT YOUTH ASSOCIATION.
PO BOX 4686-00100 NAIROBI KENYA
Tel: (254) 020 2432931 254 720276865 Email: newlightyouthassociation@gmail.com

I would like to invite anyone to take part in a cultural exchange program to Kenya. call me +254-720276865 for details.