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Excellent 4.85rating (94)

Social Work and Bursary Management

location
2 - 50 weeks  ·  Age 16 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Engage directly with individuals and families, assessing their needs and offering tailored support to improve their living conditions and overall well-being.
  • Conduct regular visits to households in the community to monitor progress, provide assistance, and identify areas where additional support may be needed.
  • Enjoy 24/7 in-country support in Kenya, and stay in our iconic bright yellow volunteer dome house like 150+ volunteers before you.

Highlights

  • Engage directly with individuals and families, assessing their needs and offering tailored support to improve their living conditions and overall well-being.
  • Conduct regular visits to households in the community to monitor progress, provide assistance, and identify areas where additional support may be needed.
  • Enjoy 24/7 in-country support in Kenya, and stay in our iconic bright yellow volunteer dome house like 150+ volunteers before you.
  • Gain a deeper understanding of Kenyan culture and the challenges faced by local communities, while sharing your own experiences to foster mutual growth and understanding.
  • Guaranteed no hidden costs. Our program is all-inclusive.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 16+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Volunteers engage in case work, household visits, bursary management, and family tracing, supporting communities while fostering personal growth and lasting impact.

    Join Our Social Work Volunteer Program in Kenya and Make a Lasting Difference!

    Our Social Work Volunteer Program in Kisumu, Kenya, supports vulnerable communities facing challenges like limited access to education, poverty, and family separation. Volunteers assist our dedicated social work team in ...

    About the program

    Join Our Social Work Volunteer Program in Kenya and Make a Lasting Difference!

    Our Social Work Volunteer Program in Kisumu, Kenya, supports vulnerable communities facing challenges like limited access to education, poverty, and family separation. Volunteers assist our dedicated social work team in addressing these issues, helping to empower individuals and strengthen community resilience. By participating, you’ll support our mission of creating sustainable change for underserved populations in collaboration with local professionals.

    What Our Program is About

    Our program focuses on delivering personalized support to individuals and families through a range of social work services. As a volunteer, you’ll assist our team in assessing beneficiary needs, connecting families to essential resources, and advocating for continued support. Working alongside our social workers, you’ll contribute to managing bursary programs that help local students access education. Volunteers also support family tracing efforts, which aim to reconnect separated family members and restore vital relationships that strengthen community ties.

    Your Role as a Volunteer

    As part of the social work team, your role includes assisting in tasks like evaluating community needs, conducting household visits under supervision, and preparing case assessments. You’ll also work with our team to coordinate the bursary program, reviewing scholarship applications and collaborating with schools to ensure effective use of funds. In family tracing efforts, you’ll assist our social workers and partner organizations to reconnect family members, helping to reinforce essential support networks within the community.

    Work and Living Surroundings

    Based about 20 minutes from Kisumu, a vibrant city along Lake Victoria, you’ll work in various local communities, schools, and partner facilities alongside our staff. Volunteers live in a safe, welcoming volunteer dome house, on the premises of the Korando Educational Centre, guaranteeing a fully immersed local experience.

    Who You’ll Work With

    You’ll be part of a diverse and experienced team, working closely with our social workers, community leaders, and other international volunteers. Volunteers collaborate with schools, government agencies, and community organizations, gaining insights and forming valuable cross-cultural connections.

    What We Expect and Offer

    We welcome compassionate, adaptable volunteers eager to support our team’s work and make a positive difference. No prior experience is necessary, but a background in social work, psychology, or community service is beneficial. Volunteers should bring a collaborative mindset and a willingness to learn, as every task is completed under the guidance and supervision of our social work professionals.

    In return, you’ll receive thorough orientation, on-site support from our staff, and hands-on experience in case work, community outreach, and program coordination. We also provide airport pick-up, 24/7 in-country assistance, comfortable accommodations, and meals to ensure a fulfilling and supported experience.

    Special Equipment

    Volunteers should bring comfortable clothing suitable for fieldwork and any personal items they need for their stay. All program materials and resources are provided, so additional equipment is not necessary.


    Typical day

    Imagine waking up in the colorful dome house, the morning air is crisp, filled with promise, and the first rays of sun filter through the trees, casting a golden light onto the skylight. Outside, you hear the cheerful voices of kids starting their day at the Korando Educational Centre.

    8 AM – ...

    Typical day

    Imagine waking up in the colorful dome house, the morning air is crisp, filled with promise, and the first rays of sun filter through the trees, casting a golden light onto the skylight. Outside, you hear the cheerful voices of kids starting their day at the Korando Educational Centre.

    8 AM – Breakfast
    You step out to join the other volunteers and our team for breakfast, where the conversation flows easily over warm tea and fresh fruit.

    9 AM – Project Work with Lunch Break
    After breakfast, the real adventure begins where you’ll join your chosen projects.

    4 PM – Free Time
    By the afternoon, you’re back, unwinding with fellow volunteers, maybe playing soccer with the kids or sharing stories from the day.

    7 PM – Dinner
    As the sun sets, a delicious dinner is served, and the day wraps up with laughter, bonding, and a sense of purpose.

     
    Note: This schedule is flexible and varies depending on the needs of the projects and volunteers.


    Free-time activities

    During weekends, you'll have free time to relax or explore Kisumu, wider Kenya, and Eastern Africa. With Lake Victoria at our doorstep and the Impala Park nearby, where some of the Big Five can be seen, there are plenty of local attractions. Within a 2-3 hour drive, you can visit Kakamega ...

    Free-time activities

    During weekends, you'll have free time to relax or explore Kisumu, wider Kenya, and Eastern Africa. With Lake Victoria at our doorstep and the Impala Park nearby, where some of the Big Five can be seen, there are plenty of local attractions. Within a 2-3 hour drive, you can visit Kakamega Rainforest, Kenya's last remaining rainforest, or Mt. Elgon National Park.

    For those looking for adventure, the Masai Mara is a must-visit!
    Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife, this iconic national reserve is home to the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains. Witnessing this natural spectacle, along with the chance to see lions, elephants, and rhinos in their natural habitat, is truly unforgettable.

    Long weekends are perfect for traveling further afield to destinations like Mombasa, Uganda, or Tanzania, or for embarking on a safari in the Masai Mara or Lake Nakuru. You can also organize workshops or excursions with the kids, staff, or community, or enjoy activities like football and volleyball with us and the children.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 16 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 16 years old on the program start date.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    Signed Code of Conduct and Signed Volunteer Agreement

    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 from 09:00 - 15:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Our program is fully transparent and all-inclusive, ensuring that you have everything you need for an enriching experience. 

    Here’s what’s included:

    • Accommodation in our magical Dome House
    • Wifi and Local Sim Card
    • CCTV and 24/7 Security
    • Contribution towards our Projects
    • Airport Pick-up and Drop-off
    • Transport to Project Sites
    • Pre-Departure and Visa Support
    • Orientation and Training
    • Homemade Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
    • Drinking Water, Coffee, Tea, Snacks & Fruits
    • In-Country 24/7 Volunteer Supervision
    • Certificate of Service

    Join us for a transformative journey filled with support, comfort, and meaningful contributions!

    Airport Pickup at Kisumu Airport

    Upon your arrival in Kenya, we ensure a seamless experience with our reliable airport pick-up and drop-off service. 

    Our friendly team will greet you at the airport, ready to assist with your luggage and transport you to our Volunteer Dome House in Kisumu. The journey is approximately 30 minutes, offering a great introduction to the local scenery. 

    At the end of your stay, we’ll ensure a smooth drop-off at the airport, so you can relax and reflect on your transformative experience. Your comfort and safety are our top priorities, allowing you to focus on making a meaningful impact during your time with us.

    Accommodation

    The Volunteer Dome House

    All volunteers live together at the Better Me Kenya HQ, located on the secure premises of the Korando Educational Center in our comfortable Volunteer Dome House. This unique building was constructed in 2015 using over 10,000 locally made clay bricks, assembled by local craftsmen under the direction of its originator, Torsten Kremser.

    Torsten designed the house as an inspiring "Symbol of Hope" to support the children of Korando. 

    His vision succeeded when global architecture magazines and media featured the project, kickstarting the one-of-a-kind volunteer experience we offer today.

    Features:

    •     Communal Area: A spacious 5m-high dome designed for socializing, relaxing, and engaging with the children, fostering community connection.
    •     Open Kitchen: A fully equipped circular kitchen that allows for shared cooking experiences and interaction.
    •     Large Skylights: Provides ample natural light and ventilation, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
    •     Spherical Walls: Enjoy the unique feeling of living inside a giant ball!
    •     En-suite Showers: Convenient attached showers to the bedrooms.
    •     Solar Heated Water: Eco-friendly solar heating provides hot water, reducing energy consumption.
    •     Grey Water System: Utilizes grey water to nourish the surrounding garden, promoting sustainability.
    •     Hobbit Entrance Door: Adds a charming, whimsical touch to the entrance, enhancing the dome's unique character.
    •     Sunset Rooftop: Two rooftops provide ample space to relax, socialize, and enjoy both sunrise and sunset.

    Join us for an extraordinary volunteer experience in a truly unique setting!

    Food & Beverages

    At Better Me Kenya, our culinary experience is just as vibrant as the surroundings. 

    Meals are prepared daily by a private chef, ensuring that you enjoy authentic Kenyan dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. You'll savor delicious staples such as ugali (a maize-based dish), sukuma wiki (stir-fried greens), and nyama choma (grilled meat), all bursting with flavor. 

    Our chef also accommodates dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone feels at home. Enjoy hearty breakfasts, nutritious lunches, and delightful dinners, complemented by refreshing drinks like chai (tea) and fresh fruit juices. 

    Every meal is a celebration of local culture and community!

    Internet Access

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

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Kisumu Airport (KIS) in Kisumu. We assist you to find cheap flights to Kenya. 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 Kenya provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    This program runs all year round with flexible durations. Your experience includes airport pick-up, orientation, comfortable accommodation, three daily meals, and 24/7 support. Stay in our welcoming Volunteer Dome House and connect with other volunteers who share your love for sports and service.

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

    Program Fees

    $448 per week 2 - 50 weeks Age 16 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    2 - 50 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

    4.85
    94 reviews

    Location

    Africa > Eastern Africa > Kenya > Kisumu

    Meet your project coordinator

    Ruth
    94
    reviews
    4.85
    Excellent
    2015
    Founded

    Verified

      Moderate response rate
    Spoken languages: German, English
    Travel safely by using Volunteer World for your communication and bookings. This way, you can benefit from the Flex Option, Refund Guarantee, and Resolution Support.

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    Contact Ruth
      Moderate response rate
    German, English

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

    Book with Flex Option!

    Choose new departure dates or change to a different volunteer program at no extra costs within 12 months.

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