At the Bethesda Development Organization, volunteers play a key role in transforming the lives of vulnerable children in Kenya through a holistic approach to education and support. Your experience will include a variety of meaningful responsibilities: 1. Teaching and Academic Support: As a volunteer, you will assist in delivering high-quality education, helping children master essential subjects and develop proficiency in English. Whether working as a teacher’s aide or leading your own lessons, you’ll be equipping children with the skills needed to succeed in a globalized world.

2. Providing Nutritious Meals: You will help prepare and serve daily nutritious meals for the children, ensuring that they are nourished and able to focus on their studies without the distraction of hunger. This support creates a stable learning environment, allowing them to “go home with full bellies and full minds.”

3. Distributing Essential Provisions: Volunteers also assist in providing clothes, school uniforms, and shoes, ensuring that each child can attend school with confidence and dignity. Your efforts will remove significant barriers to education, making it easier for children to focus on learning and personal growth.

4. Extracurricular Activities and Mentorship: You will have the opportunity to engage with students in various extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and mentorship programs. These activities help foster a well-rounded educational experience, allowing children to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build meaningful relationships.

5. Emotional and Social Support: As part of our nurturing community, you’ll offer emotional support and encouragement to children facing difficult circumstances. By building trusting relationships, you will contribute to their sense of belonging and self-confidence, empowering them to pursue their dreams. Through your time with Bethesda Development Organization, you will help shape a brighter future for children in Kenya, giving them the tools they need to break the cycle of poverty and achieve their full potential.

Safety

Your well-being is as important as the impact you make, and we take every measure to ensure you feel safe, supported, and confident throughout your time with us. Safety is our absolute top priority. We are committed to creating a secure and nurturing environment for both our volunteers and the children we serve. From the moment you arrive, we ensure that every volunteer receives thorough training on safety protocols, including emergency procedures, and child supervision. Our facilities are equipped with all necessary safety features, and we enforce guidelines to ensure that everyone is protected and cared for.

Safety Protocols

1. Comprehensive Orientation: Upon arrival, every volunteer undergoes a thorough orientation that covers safety protocols, emergency procedures, and guidelines for interacting with children.

2. Child Supervision Guidelines: We enforce strict child supervision protocols to ensure that all interactions are safe and appropriate. Volunteers are trained to recognize and report any signs of distress or unsafe situations.

3. Safety Equipment: Our facilities are equipped with necessary safety features such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency exit plans. Regular safety inspections ensure that all equipment is functional.

Emergency Procedures

1. Emergency Contacts: Each volunteer is provided with a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, medical facilities, and organization leadership.

2. First Aid Stations: First aid stations are located within volunteer accommodations and project sites. Trained personnel are available to handle minor injuries and respond to medical needs.

3. Evacuation Plans: Clear evacuation routes are established, and drills are conducted regularly to familiarize everyone with the procedures in case of an emergency.

Embassies and Local Resources

1. Embassy Locations: We provide volunteers with information about the nearest embassies based on their nationality. This includes contact information and directions.

2. Local Hospitals: Volunteers receive information about the closest hospitals, including addresses and emergency contact numbers. We also share details about local healthcare facilities and their services.

Local Law Enforcement

1. Emergency Numbers: We provide volunteers with the local emergency numbers for law enforcement, fire, and medical services. This ensures quick access to assistance when needed.

2. Community Liaison: Our organization has established relationships with local law enforcement to facilitate communication and ensure volunteer safety in the community.

Ongoing Support

1. Open Communication: Volunteers are encouraged to communicate any concerns or incidents they encounter. We have a dedicated support team available for assistance.

2. Wellness Checks: Regular wellness checks are conducted to ensure that volunteers are feeling safe and supported throughout their time with us.

By prioritizing these safety measures, we aim to create an environment where volunteers can focus on their impactful work while feeling secure and cared for. Your well-being is integral to our mission, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Volunteer Fees: What’s Included and How You Help:

The cost to volunteer is $17 per day. This fee covers essential expenses such as your stay, including access to power, water, and daily meals, ensuring your basic needs are met during your time with us. Additionally, a portion of this contribution serves as a donation to the organization, helping us sustain our programs, support the children, and continue to make a positive impact in the community. By volunteering with us, you’re not only giving your time but also directly contributing to the long-term success and growth of our mission.