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Brilliant 4.72rating (254)
  • Reduced Inequalities

Community Development & Welfare

location
4 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Work with local groups to offer kids opportunities through music and the arts
  • Support disadvantaged communities in a variety of areas
  • Health education and awareness

Highlights

  • Work with local groups to offer kids opportunities through music and the arts
  • Support disadvantaged communities in a variety of areas
  • Health education and awareness
  • Local restoration or construction projects
  • Adaptable, enthusiastic volunteers who enjoy teamwork and are dedicated to grassroots inititives
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Get involved in initiatives that uplift disadvantaged areas. Volunteers skilled in repairs are especially needed, or those with education/ arts/music backgrounds.

    Motivated and flexible volunteers with a love for collaboration and a deep dedication to helping local communities thrive at the grassroots level.

    The community development program offers opportunities to get involved in initiatives that uplift disadvantaged areas. Volunteers skilled in repairs are ...

    About the program

    Motivated and flexible volunteers with a love for collaboration and a deep dedication to helping local communities thrive at the grassroots level.

    The community development program offers opportunities to get involved in initiatives that uplift disadvantaged areas. Volunteers skilled in repairs are especially appreciated, as they often work alongside local organisations to create opportunities for youth through music and the arts. Be sure to include as much detail as possible about your qualifications in your application, as there are various areas you could get involved in.

    Arusha’s disadvantaged communities face a range of issues that affect their overall well-being. As a Community Development volunteer, you will collaborate with local teams and fellow volunteers to organise and carry out events and initiatives focused on improving the community. Your tasks will align with the community’s most pressing needs, ensuring your work is both impactful and valued.

    Tasks may cover a wide spectrum of activities, such as:

    • Restoration and renovation projects
    • Arts and cultural initiatives
    • Health education and awareness campaigns
    • Projects involving technology, media, and design

    *Tasks will vary based on seasonal demands and current conservation objectives, ensuring a substantial contribution to the sustainability and health of the surrounding environment.

    Location

    Arusha, located in northern Tanzania, is a vibrant city known as the gateway to some of Africa’s most famous national parks and Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions, with bustling markets, diverse cuisine, and a rich cultural heritage. Arusha’s temperate climate and stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for both adventure and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy safaris, hiking, and cultural tours, experiencing the warm hospitality of the local communities.

    Project Tasks

    By joining, you’ll positively impact local neighbourhoods while also growing both personally and professionally. You’ll gain:

    • The opportunity to support disadvantaged communities
    • Hands-on experience by participating in a variety of community projects
    • Practical knowledge in community development
    • Exposure to the Swahili language and local communication practices
    • A deeper understanding of Tanzanian culture through full immersion
    • The chance to explore Arusha, a lively and diverse city in the heart of Tanzania

    Typical day

    First Day
    On the first day of the volunteering placement, you will be escorted to the project by our local staff and introduced to the staff at the project you will be working with.

    Weekday (Mon-Fri)
    Work and hours are dependent on the project and placement that each volunteer is working at. A typical ...

    Typical day

    First Day
    On the first day of the volunteering placement, you will be escorted to the project by our local staff and introduced to the staff at the project you will be working with.

    Weekday (Mon-Fri)
    Work and hours are dependent on the project and placement that each volunteer is working at. A typical volunteer day would be as follows:

    7:30 AM Breakfast at the volunteer house or homestay.
    8:00 AM Volunteers leave home and travel to their placements. Work and hours are dependent on the project and placement that each volunteer is working at.
    1:00 PM Work at the placement usually ends. Volunteers are free to travel home for lunch at their accommodation, prepare for the next day or do some shopping and sightseeing.
    8:30 PM Dinner at the volunteer house or homestay

    Free-time activities

    There are many exciting places to explore in the surrounding areas, here are just a few!

    Ngorongoro Conservation Area

    Home to the Ngorongoro Crater, this stunning area of vast plains, green forests and wild savannahs, sits next to the Serengeti National Park. You will see the highest concentration of ...

    Free-time activities

    There are many exciting places to explore in the surrounding areas, here are just a few!

    Ngorongoro Conservation Area

    Home to the Ngorongoro Crater, this stunning area of vast plains, green forests and wild savannahs, sits next to the Serengeti National Park. You will see the highest concentration of animals here from lions, zebra, wildebeest and elephants. The views from the crater are absolutely stunning, with an atmospheric mountain backdrop. This should be at the top of your bucket list for Tanzania!

    Serengeti National Park

    Another one for your bucket list and a perfect way to spend your weekend off. The Serengeti is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the big 5 (lion, rhino, leopard, buffalo & elephant). You will also find zebra, wildebeest, giraffes, hippos, baboons, hyenas, ostriches and many more incredible animals. The best way to explore is by camping out in the open or in one of the many lodges. The area is huge, and we recommend at least 2 days here.

    Moshi and Mount Kilimanjaro

    Moshi is about a two and half hour drive from Monduli and can be easily reached using a “dala dala” or taxi to Arusha and then changing again onto Moshi from there.

    Moshi is a quiet town with several Western cafes and coffee shops. It is also the closest town to the starting point of the Mount Kilimanjaro trek. On a clear day, you can get excellent views of Kilimanjaro right from the roadside (Tip: Moshi Train Station, which is no longer is use, has fantastic views of Africa’s highest mountain, with locals selling drinks and snacks up the top).

    Arusha National Park and Mount Meru

    Mount Meru is located in Arusha National Park and is the second largest mountain in Tanzania. If you’re looking to Climb Kilimanjaro ,then Mt Meru can be a great acclimatisation trek, taking you through various types of vegetation. There are also scenic trails around the mountain at ground level. Other attractions include Meru Crater, the Jekukumia River, Ngurdoto Crater and the Momelia Lakes which are known to change colour! You might even find wildlife here including giraffes, warthogs, cape buffaloes, lions, elephants, flamingos and more.

    Zanzibar

    A little further afield, it is still possible to fly to Zanzibar for a weekend from Arusha (although several days here would be ideal). Zanzibar is known for its sandy white beaches, turquoise water and unique culture. Stone Town is an interesting town, known for its mazes and spices. Other things to do is a visit to Prison Island, where prisoners were once held but is now home to giant tortoises. You can also spot dolphins and try snorkelling off the island. The North and East of Zanzibar have some of the best and cleanest beaches in the world.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Education Requirements

    at high school level

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    • Accommodation
    • 3 meals p/day weekdays  
    • 1 day orientation
    • In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
    • Fundraising support
    • University course credits (where applicable)
    • Certificate of Completion

    Accommodation

    You have the option to stay in a volunteer house or with a host family. In the volunteer house each person will have their own room and bathroom, and in the homestay you will have a private room, with the bathroom shared between the other volunteers. The houses are comfortable and equipped with running water and electricity, though occasional power outages may affect hot water availability. Bedding, including a pillow, pillowcase, sheets, and a mosquito net, is provided, but volunteers should bring their own towels and toiletries.

    Security in the volunteer house is ensured with a guard on duty both day and night. Staff are available daily during the week and can be reached by phone on weekends. Volunteers under 18 stay in a separate room. For internet access, volunteers should bring an unlocked mobile phone and purchase a local SIM card in Arusha, with assistance from the local staff upon arrival. The accommodation includes sinks, toilets, and showers with hot water, living room with a television, dining room, kitchen, Wi-Fi, security guard and watchman.

    Food & Beverages

    Your program fee includes main meals prepared with love by our in-house cooks, offering you a taste of the rich, authentic flavours of Arusha. Meals are predominantly Tanzanian, providing you with a genuine culinary experience. This approach allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture through its cuisine.

    We cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Please specify any dietary needs in your application so we can meet your requirements from the beginning. While the number of meals provided may vary by program, the fee generally includes three meals daily—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—plus evening soup and snacks, seven days a week.

    Breakfast usually features eggs, bread with butter and jam, pancakes, fruits, and beverages like tea and coffee. Lunch and dinner include a mix of meat, fish, vegetables, and fruits, accompanied by staples such as rice, potatoes, pasta, and fries, all enhanced with traditional Tanzanian sauces and stews.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Kilimanjaro International Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Kilimanjaro. We assist you to find cheap flights to Tanzania. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Tanzania provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Tanzania you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Tanzania. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Arrivals on Sunday. Small extra fee for airport pickup.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $334 per week 4 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    4 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.7
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    •
    2025
    I supported a loving team with daily tasks such as keeping the enclosures clean, shredding antelopes and feeding the kittens. Comments on ...
    •
    2025
    Very well organised, had no problem checking in. The work was so nice and the people were wonderful. Staff is also there to help out with ...
    Sarah Damaschin

    School Construction

    Location

    Africa > Eastern Africa > Tanzania > Arusha

    Meet your project coordinator

    Lauren
    254
    reviews
    4.72
    Brilliant
    1989
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    You might also be interested in

    Volunteer Abroad  >  Community  >  Social Work in Tanzania
    Contact Lauren
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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