volunteer in ghana

Ghana is a coastal country in West Africa with regions of dense rainforest, dry savannah and grassy plains.  Once a British colony, Ghana is known for its thriving tribal culture, rich exports of gold and cocoa, and beautiful terrain. Despite its amazing landscape and rich culture, the nation still relies heavily on international aid to provide basic needs to some of its poorer citizens. World Endeavors volunteer programs are in areas where help is needed the most. Volunteers can choose from teaching, orphanage, environmental conservation, wildlife conservation, health education, and community development projects.

Ghana's people have continued to thrive despite past and present hardships. Ghana once housed a major port used in the trafficking of slaves from West Africa and is still today dealing with the effects of that tragedy. And while enjoying a higher per capita output of goods due to its natural resources, the nation still relies heavily on international aid to provide basic needs to some of its poorer citizens. Much of the country lies outside of the urban centers and is in great need of a sound infrastructure, basic technologies, and health care.

Food: Traditional Ghanaian food is included (3 meals per day).

Activities: Teaching Children
Volunteers help shape young lives in Ghana by sharing their English skills and teaching talents. They teach English along with many other subjects to elementary school children from 5-12 years of age. During the first week of classes, volunteers will shadow a local teacher to become familiar with the school, the children, and the curriculum. If the volunteer is ready at the beginning of the second week, he or she may begin teaching independently.

Orphanage Assistance
Orphans are deprived of many opportunities necessary for their development. Through education and compassion, children are empowered to challenge a life of further poverty and exploitation. Volunteers focus on educational training which consists primarily of English language classes. Volunteers' active participation in programs such as health education, games, drawing, and painting is encouraged. With such a variety of ways to participate, the orphanage experience provides volunteers many meaningful ways to approach service.

Community Development
Volunteers will assist local communities in Ghana with projects that focus on community development. Activities may include home or school renovation or may involve efforts to support sustainable eco-tourism in rural areas.

Health Care and Health Education
Volunteers assist local non-governmental organizations in Ghana to educate local villages about important health issues. AIDs and Malaria prevention are the key focus of these programs. The project may include travel to villages throughout the Central Region of Ghana.

Youth Soccer Coaching
Soccer is a the most popular sport in Ghana. For impoverished children the sport serves as welcome escape from the struggles of daily life. For a volunteer with an interest in soccer and a desire to help the children of Ghana, soccer can be an important tool for encouraging and teaching children.

Not Included: