What is the main content of ARA-projects?

The projects are always of some tangible benefit to the needy community and of social or environmental value; e.g.:

• Teaching at local schools / Helping children to study and play
• Creating awareness on essential topics within the communities (e.g. HIV, environment, etc.)
• Coordinating club activities with children (e.g. sports, scouting, environmental activities etc.)
• Environmental activities like planting of trees
• Working at a group farm (land preparations, beading, etc.)
• Constructing traditional houses for the poor, sick, and aged
• Helping in construction of children’s homes and schools
• Brick making and Terracing
• Handy craft and weaving
• Strategic planning and institutional development

Who can apply?

ARA projects are open to everyone regardless of age, disability, race or professional qualifications!

• Volunteers must be at least 18 years old
• If you are below 18 a parental permission will be required for the placement
• Volunteers must cover their own travel costs to/from the project site
• Volunteers are responsible for passports / visas, etc.
• Volunteers with disabilities are asked to tell the office when they apply for a project
• Workcamps with a focus on children work require a motivation letter from every volunteer, who wants to participate

How long can I participate in one of the ARA-projects?

Our workcamps last for 3 weeks; from the 8th to the 28th of every month. Medium term projects last from two months up to one year. It’s also very popular among volunteers to participate in a workcamp first, before starting a medium term placement.

Who will I be working with?

A workcamp consists of 5 to 15 volunteers from all over the world, who like to share certain values and aims in life and therefore want to make a difference. In medium term projects you will work either alone within a local community or may also share your work with a few fellow volunteers.

What does a workcamp look like?

Main guidelines of a workcamp are:

Volunteers normally work 20-25 hours a week but evenings and weekends are generally free
There will be a project leader with extra responsibility for day-to-day activities and who liaises with ARA office and local people
Language: The common language on most camps tends to be English
Accommodation is usually simple, a sleeping bag is usually required and volunteers should be prepared for less privacy than they may be used to food and accommodation are provided from what is locally available.
Volunteers usually stay together (in a village hall, Dormitories, community centre etc.) and they prepare their own meals and leisure activities
Volunteers are expected to contribute to the team life and integrate with the international groups of volunteers and locals on the campsite
Volunteers should be fit enough to carry out the work project and be prepared for the additional emotional strain

Can I bring my children with me?

We welcome applications from volunteers wishing to bring their children, but do check with the office before applying to be sure that the chose camp can accept children.