About the Program
At Gilys Children Foundation, we believe in restoring hope, dignity, and emotional well-being through compassionate, community-centered care and support.
We are seeking passionate and dedicated volunteers to become part of a transformative mission of healing, empowerment, and positive community impact in Tanzania. As a volunteer, you will work hand-in-hand with experienced local staff, caregivers, teachers, and community leaders to support vulnerable children, youth, women, and families within our programs and communities.
Your role may include:
- Offering emotional and social support to children, youth, women, and families facing different life challenges
- Assisting in community outreach and awareness programs
- Supporting children through mentorship, education support, and safe learning spaces
- Participating in women empowerment activities and life skills programs
- Contributing to mental health awareness and stigma reduction initiatives
- Supporting daycare and preschool activities for vulnerable children
- Helping organize sports, creative learning, and community development activities
This opportunity provides a meaningful cultural exchange experience while allowing volunteers to create a lasting impact in the lives of children and communities in Tanzania.
Together, we can create safe, supportive, and empowering environments where individuals can heal, grow, learn, and thrive.
We welcome students, professionals, and passionate individuals in areas such as:
- Psychology and Mental Health
- Counseling and Social Work
- Education and Teaching
- Childcare and Special Needs Support
- Community Development
- Nursing and Public Health
- Youth Empowerment and Women Empowerment
Volunteers may support our beneficiaries through:
- Emotional and psychosocial support
- Individual mentoring and counseling support
- Educational activities and classroom assistance
- Daycare and preschool support
- Community outreach programs
- Women and youth empowerment initiatives
- Sports and recreational activities
- Basic assessments and referrals where necessary
- Organizing workshops and awareness campaigns
For serious medical or mental health conditions, beneficiaries may be referred to larger hospitals or specialized professionals for further care.
Volunteer Information Guide1. Tanzanian Currency, Mobile Phones, and Internet Access
Having a mobile phone will help you stay connected with family and friends during your stay in Tanzania.
The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). Money exchange services and ATMs are available in Arusha town, shopping centers, and airports.
Wi-Fi is available in most accommodations, restaurants, cafes, and some working areas. Volunteers may also purchase local internet bundles for additional connectivity.
2. Packing EssentialsRequired Items:
- Valid Visa or eVisa for Tanzania
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (if required by your country of travel)
- Credit card and/or cash
- Power adapter suitable for Tanzanian outlets
Recommended Items:
- Personal toiletries
- Travel pillow
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
- Comfortable outdoor shoes or sandals
- Small backpack or waist bag
- Power bank
- Light clothing suitable for warm weather
- Light jacket or sweater for cool evenings in Arusha
Laundry services may be available for an additional fee depending on accommodation arrangements.
3. What to Expect on Your First Day
Upon your arrival, a representative from Gilys Children Foundation will meet you at the airport or bus station, and communication will be arranged through WhatsApp before arrival.
Your orientation will take place on the first working day at our project location in .
During orientation, you will:
- Learn about the foundation and its programs
- Meet staff members and fellow volunteers
- Visit the daycare, preschool, and community projects
- Receive guidance about local culture, safety, transportation, and daily schedules
After orientation, volunteers may visit local shops or malls to purchase SIM cards and exchange currency if needed.
4. Exploration Opportunities (Tours and Safaris)
Tanzania is home to some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes, wildlife parks, and cultural experiences.
Safari trips, cultural tourism activities, waterfalls, Maasai village visits, and hiking experiences can also be arranged through trusted local tour operators.
We encourage volunteers to experience the beauty, culture, and hospitality of Tanzania while making a positive difference in local communities.
5. Become a Volunteer Superstar
You can multiply your impact by organizing a fundraiser before or during your volunteer experience.
Donations and fundraising efforts can help support:
- Food programs for vulnerable children
- School supplies and tuition support
- Daycare and preschool development
- Women empowerment activities
- Community outreach projects
- Healthcare and hygiene support
- Construction and improvement of learning spaces
Friends, family members, schools, churches, and workplaces often enjoy supporting meaningful causes and becoming part of the positive impact you create during your stay in Tanzania.
If you need promotional materials or information to support your fundraiser, our team will be happy to assist you.
