Uganda
Would you like to make the world a little bit better and gain unforgettable experiences in the process? The Light for Forgotten Children Foundation offers you the unique opportunity to volunteer in a children's home in Uganda. Here you have the chance to make a lasting difference to the lives of children while experiencing a new culture at first hand.
The "Home of Joy" children's home is located in a rural village in western Uganda, about 300 km from the capital Kampala. Here we provide a safe home, education and a loving community for over 30 orphaned and vulnerable children. Our mission is to give these children a better future and provide them with the tools they need to realize their dreams.
We are looking for committed and empathetic people who enjoy working with children and are willing to get involved in a new culture. You should be at least 18 years old and have a good command of English. Previous experience in working with children or in the educational field is an advantage, but not essential. Flexibility, openness, adaptability and independence are important qualities that you should bring with you.
The volunteer placement usually takes place during the children's school vacations, which are at the following times:
As a volunteer, you will support the team on site in various areas:
Our voluntary service offers you:
Location:
The children's home is located in a remote village in the countryside. The nearest larger village is 12 km away. There is no running water for showers or toilets, but there is clean drinking water.
Health:
A yellow fever vaccination is required to enter Uganda. The risk of malaria in Uganda is very high. A malaria infection can be avoided through consistent mosquito protection. It is best to schedule an appointment with a doctor or tropical institute as early as possible for a personal consultation and any necessary vaccinations.
Statement of costs:
We do not charge any fees for the volunteer assignment. As all donations are used for the Foundation's aid projects, we are unfortunately unable to cover the volunteer's expenses. You will need to budget around CHF 1500 - 2000 for travel costs and visas. We will be happy to assist you with planning and booking.
Are you ready to become part of our project and work with us to shape the future of children in Uganda? Then we look forward to receiving your application! Send us your documents including a letter of motivation and CV to fiona@lfvk.ch or use our online application form.
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-Mahatma Gandhi-
You can find all information on our projects and events in our annual reports
My time at the "Home of Joy" children's home in Uganda was a formative and enriching experience. During my stay, I was not only able to make a direct contribution to the children's everyday lives, but also gain valuable insights into a different culture and way of life.
I helped look after the children, assisted with everyday tasks and organized playful and creative activities. I was particularly impressed by the warmth and joie de vivre of the children and the commitment of the staff. On site, I experienced a caring and supportive environment in which solidarity and mutual appreciation were tangible.
This experience broadened my view of the world and showed me how important interpersonal commitment is. I am very grateful for my time at the "Home of Joy" - it made me grow personally and I will always remember it.
Before I joined the Foundation Board, I had the opportunity to work as a volunteer at the Home of Joy children's home for two weeks in December 2024. This time was an unforgettable and valuable experience for me.
I was there at a time when Fiona was also on site. She was able to give me a lot of information about the children and staff. As the children were on vacation, I was able to spend a lot of time with them and get to know them better. We played a lot and I taught them the Fangis game 14/15, which they found very cool.
We also sang a lot and I had the opportunity to teach the children a few dances. As a half-Brazilian, I was able to show them samba and they really liked it. The children also wanted to learn a few Portuguese words.
Their enthusiasm was so great that they not only wanted to dance the dances, but also learn a few Portuguese words. It was great to see how open, curious and eager to learn the children were.
My time at Home of Joy not only showed me how important loving care, structure and joint activities are for children, but also how much joy there is in small things. I am very grateful for this experience and look forward to contributing even more passion and personal involvement on the Board of Trustees.
