WWB Photos

Hello everyone!
You can now see our pictures at http://www.flickr.com/photos/43099669@N08/?saved=1
Hoping to hear from you soon.

WWB Volunteer Information

Hello potential volunteer!

Thank you so much for taking interest in Watoto Wa Baraka. The volunteer program enables you to experience life in East Africa and participate in the many programs that we run. You will have the opportunity to try different roles and programs, dependent on your interests and skills. Our volunteers come from all over the world.

Volunteer Opportunities

We have volunteer opportunities which do not require specialized skills (although these would be an advantage), and we accept volunteers for both short and long-term placements, all the year round. Volunteers certainly gain an amazing life experience from their participation in our placement program. During the placement, volunteers do have the opportunity to sample all the tasks.

Volunteer Projects

Volunteer projects are typically located at the orphanage and its surroundings, in a village called Pundamilia – Maragwa District, north of Nairobi along the road to Mount Kenya. There is a small town nearby (about 20mins walk) called Makuyu. A map of the local area will be provided to you when you arrive.
The orphanage is a secure compound with dormitories for boys and girls as well as staff & volunteer housing. It’s on a fertile land with coffee, bananas, mango and overcado trees, as well as vegetable garden and sports field. Also, there are animals such as pigs, cows, rabbits and chicken.

The Kenyan Experience

As a volunteer, you will experience traditional Kenyan life and participate in daily activities, such as cooking over an open fire, collecting water from a well, playing with children, teaching children, assisting in the vegetable garden as well as outreach programs.

Placement Work

Prior to your placement, we encourage you let us know what your interests are and your level of experience in that field. This will enable us to plan your placement and make any necessary arrangements for the work.
Your placement work will begin after the orientation. The type of work you are involved with will be dependent on your interests, abilities, level of experience as well as your comfort levels.
One of the advantages of the Watoto Wa Baraka program is that you are not limited to one job role and will have the opportunity to ‘sample’ other roles during your placement. To become involved in another project simply inform a member of staff who will happily make any necessary arrangements.

Work Schedule

Working hours are normally 6-8 hours a day. Time away from work e.g. for traveling to other parts of Africa can be arranged through informing the orphanage manager. The minimum stay at this reserve is two weeks. There is no maximum stay.
Upon arrival, there is an orientation session for new volunteers to become acquainted with the local culture, language and the project work. Further training and supervision may be provided to new volunteers who are interested in tasks for which they lack adequate experience. More experienced volunteers are given direction, but work under minimal supervision.

Accommodation

While working at the orphanage or surrounding community, volunteers will stay at the main compound in the village of Pundamilia.
Volunteers will sleep in shared rooms with other volunteers, and we endeavor to keep the rooms single gender. We also accommodate couples as well.
While we provide sheets and blankets and mosquito nets, volunteers are welcome to bring their own sheets or sleeping bags

Food and Water

All meals are provided by the organization as part of the program fee. The main staples of the diet are rice, beans, ugali (corn meal), potatoes, cabbage and bread (chapati). Fresh fruit and vegetables are readily available and are inexpensive to purchase.
The orphanage is vegetarian as a result of the cost of meat. Volunteers are encouraged to cook and to introduce different meals, for instance past volunteers have introduced pasta and French toast. There are always restaurants available in Thika for meat–based or western-style meals (such as French fries/hot chips).
The water used by the orphanage is from a well and is very clean and safe to consume. We also get running/tap water twice a week. Bottled water is also available from Makuyu and Thika.

Clothing

With regards to clothing, keep in mind that the local area is very dusty and is often hot and dry, even in rainy season. Volunteers should anticipate that clothes and footwear will become dirty quickly so we suggest durable outdoors clothes that will last your visit. Of course there are facilities to wash clothes and shoes as regularly as you wish.
Some suggested hints for clothes are:
- As the orphanage is in a conservative area, all volunteers should bring at least one pair of long pants or skirt as well as a shirt that covers your shoulders otherwise acceptable clothing includes singlet and knee-length skirts/shorts. Volunteers should understand that very short skirts and skimpy clothing will attract attention and we particularly advise that women volunteers limit the wear of bikini tops, halter necks, midriff tops and short skirts. However we also advice that male volunteers wear a shirt/singlet (i.e. not topless) and wear knee length shorts.
- At least two pair of shoes, including one pair of comfortable covered shoes or trainers and one pair of sandals or flip-flops.
- Sunhat to prevent sunburn (particularly for volunteers unused to strong sunlight).
- During rainy season, the nights and mornings can get cool. We suggest that volunteers bring light jumpers or pullovers to layer clothing (rather than thick jumpers etc).

Cost and Payment

The volunteer program costs US$90 per week to cover the cost of your accommodation, food and water, as well as the orphanage projects. We usually ask that volunteers pay for the total cost of their placement (i.e. number of weeks x US$90) upon arrival in Kenya. For volunteers staying longer than three months, we are able to accept payment in instalments (please ask for further details).
For volunteers that have paid a deposit prior to their arrival, this amount is credited towards the cost of their stay.

The preferred method of payment is cash (payable on first arrival). For volunteers wanting to pay through credit or debit card, we have Pay Pal available on our website for online payments at least a week before arrival.

Please be aware that we are unable to accept international cheques.

In summary:

Program cost for 1 week – US$90
Program cost for 2 weeks – US$180
Program cost for 3 weeks – US$270
Program cost for 4 weeks – US$360
Program cost for 6 weeks – US$540
Program cost for 8 weeks – US$720
Program cost for 12 weeks – US$1,080

Our program fees are non-refundable.

Additional Costs

The cost of the volunteer program covers your accommodation, all meals and water
Additional costs are:
Transportation from the Airport to the Hotel – US$25 (if you arrive after 4:00 PM)
1st night hotel accommodation – US$25 (if you arrive after 4:00 PM)
Transportation from the Airport to the Orphanage – US$65
Transportation from the Orphanage to Airport upon Departure – US$65
For additional items, such as travel to nearby towns, snacks, internet access, eating in local restaurants, basic supply items and drinks, we suggest that volunteers bring additional money.
Although the amount required varies between volunteers, based on two trips per week into Thika and purchases of some snacks and food and other basic items, we suggest budgeting for $US10 – $US20 per week.
Of course, if you intend of travelling around Kenya during your stay, this will obviously increase. If you would like advice regarding costs, please contact us.

VISA

We recommend volunteers to get tourist visas to come to the orphanage. This normally is a 3 months renewable VISA, and can easily be purchased upon arrival (with cash) at the airport for US$25.00 or in advance from Kenyan consulates in most countries.

Airport Transfers and Orientation

WWB representative will meet you at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (airport code: NBO) in Nairobi, and accompany you to the orphanage the same day if you arrive before 4:00 PM. If you arrive after 4:00 PM, we recommend that volunteers stay at a hotel in Nairobi, and proceed to the orphanage the next day accompanied by our staff. We are able to assist with arranging accommodation that would cost US$25 single bed & breakfast.
If you are arriving via other transportation (such as train) please contact us so we can make the necessary arrangements to meet with you.
Upon arrival at the orphanage, we provide you with an orientation to enable you to become acquainted with the local culture, language and the orphanage. This orientation will include meeting staff at the orphanage, a tour of the local area, discussion of the volunteer role, recent changes at the orphanage and current plans/developments at the orphanage, etc.
On departure, volunteer will be accompanied by WWB representative to the airport.

Access to Facilities

Electricity

The orphanage now has got electricity, so you are able to charge electrical items, such as phones, cameras, rechargeable batteries, etc.In Pundamilia and Makuyu, you are able to purchase basic supplies. Also, you are able to access internet while at the orphanage. For other facilities and a larger range of supplies, Thika is a short distance away (40mins by matatu). In Thika, volunteers will be able to access the post office, banks and ATMs (including a Barclays), and a Western Union to change money. Also, there are large supermarkets where you can purchase most supplies, such as shampoo, toothpaste, toilet paper, various food items, and moisturisers.

Mobile Phones

Mobile phones in Kenya are GSM and there is excellent reception available in the local area. If you bring a mobile phone from your home country or an international phone, provided you are permitted by your service provider, GSM-enabled phones will work on this network. Also, it is possible to purchase simcards for a GSM mobile phone when you arrive in Kenya, or even purchase a mobile phone relatively easily.

Health, Insurance and Vaccination

It is recommended you have travellers’ health insurance when you leave your country. We suggest purchasing on-line http://www.triptithe.com/
On the Watoto Wa Baraka compound, we have a well where we get our drinking and bathing water which is clean and free of diseases, so it is safe for all to drink. Most of our food is vegetarian, cooked with the produce we grow on our own land. No volunteer has gotten ill from eating or drinking any of the compound’s supplies. However, in case of illness or any emergency, there is a hospital located walking distance from the compound in the town of Makuyu, and there is an ambulance service available.
Medicines are readily available at pharmacies in Thika however it is advisable that volunteers bring their own first aid kit, and any prescribed medication. Basic medication such as paracetamol and for upset stomachs is available, as are basics such as bandaids, cotton buds and wipes.
With regard to vaccinations, volunteers require the following prior to travel to Kenya:
• Yellow Fever
• Diphtheria
• Polio
• Tetanus
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis
A listing of recommended vaccines can be located on the website www. kenya.gov
Volunteers will also require anti-malaria medication. Although there are few mosquitoes in the makuyu area (orphanage), in many other parts of Kenya (including Nairobi), they can be a nuisance. The orphanage has many quality mosquito nets however they are rarely used as they are few mosquitoes. Volunteers, of course, are welcome to bring their own or use the orphanages.
Please speak to your doctor regarding the most suitable medication for you.

What Volunteers Can Expect

Prior to your Arrival

Prior to departing your home country, representatives of Watoto Wa Baraka (WWB) will be available on email and via phone (if you prefer) to discuss your placement at the orphanage.
If you would like to contact past volunteers to hear about their experiences and ask questions about placements, WWB have had volunteers from many parts of the world, and we will endeavour to put you in contact with someone from your home country.

During your Stay

There are staff members at the orphanage to support and assist you. They assist with caring for the children, administration and managing the day to day activities of the orphanage. They are available to answer questions, act as a local guide and ensure that you settle into the orphanage and way of life.
Volunteers can also expect a weekly visit from a representative of WWB. This representative will be able to bring any supplies you require, provide information, support and assistant if you require. Also to resolve any issues that may occur. This representative will be available via phone and email at any time during your stay.
We will provide you with work that is suitable for your level of ability, experience and meets your interests. Should you have any requests, queries or issues regarding your workload please let us know.

After Your Stay

WWB like to remain in contact with all past volunteers and we expect you to spread news about us to your community. We often send updates on the orphanage and the progress of children to past volunteers.

What We Expect of Volunteers

Your Role as a Volunteer

As a volunteer, we encourage you to actively participate in the daily activities of the orphanage such as caring for children, cleaning, teaching, cooking, washing clothes/bedding, fieldwork, construction, watering the vegetable garden, collecting firewood, hauling water, feeding animals' preparing food, etc. We also encourage you to utilise the skills you have to assist in improving the lives of the children and staff. For instance, volunteers good at sport are encouraged to work with the children at orphanage and those in the community on sports.

Attitude

It is important for volunteers to understand that the culture in Kenya may be quite different to what they may be accustomed to. Volunteers should bring with them an easy-going, open-minded and relaxed attitude. Kenyan people are very friendly and social people. While we will endeavour to maintain a daily routine, volunteers should understand that things move slowly in Africa (and indeed even at the WWB). Relax and enjoy the slow pace. Remember that life here is not as organized and predictable as life in developed countries. Although work can be very busy and active, at other times work is determined by number of factors including weather, availability of resources, whether a relevant contact has turned up, cultural activities etc.

Responsibilities

WWB expect the following of volunteers:
• To keep your room tidy (setting a good example for the children)
• To keep your valuables safe – if required, we are able to provide a secure place for items such as passports.
• To wash your own clothes and bedding – staff are able to assist if required
• To dress appropriately, even outside the orphanage grounds.
• To display appropriate behaviour. The area is quite conservative and behaviour such as public displays of affection and swearing will attract attention. Remember you are representing both your country and WWB.

What To Bring

Below is a list of recommended supplies to have with you during your experience with Watoto Wa Baraka, as suggested by past volunteers. Of course, this is not a comprehensive list but rather should give you an idea of some of the essentials as well as items that will make your stay more comfortable.
Also note that most of these items can be purchased with ease in the local town as required.

For Yourself

- First aid kit
- Sunscreen
- Camera batteries (rechargeable)
- Flashlight/torch (rechargeable)
- Bed-sheets & washing towel
- International adaptor
- Umbrella /poncho / raincoat (dependent on when you are visiting)
- Durable Water Bottle (such as a Nalgene bottle)
With regards to mosquito nets, the orphanage does provide good quality nets however most volunteers do not require the use of one as there are very few mosquitoes in the area. For volunteers intending to travel to other parts of Kenya, we advise them to bring their own net.

Other

Other items that volunteers may find useful during their time in Kenya include:
- A Kenya travel book, such a Lonely Planet or Rough Guide.
- photo’s of your family, friends, pets, home, etc to show the kids
- pictures/books of your home country
- favourite food recipes to assist with cooking and to share your culture
- favourite kids songs, movie, tapes

For the Orphanage

If possible, we would love for you to bring some supplies for the kids! Anything that you can bring would be greatly appreciated but below is a guide! Many of these items are cheap to purchase and would be loved by the children.

- Mixed clothing, sweaters, dresses, shirts, shorts for boys & girls, ages 4 - 14 years)
- Sanitary pads for community girls
- Children backpacks for school
- Black shoes for school (boys & girls, ages 4 - 14 years)

If you are interested in bringing some of the above would like specific items that are current required, we are able to send you a list with more detailed and up-to-date information about the children (number, gender, age, etc).
Also, if you are interested in bring items for the orphanage to use (such as laptop computer, camera, cell phone) please let us know. We are reliant on donations for many of these items that often have a short lifespan and would be grateful if you could assist.

For volunteer application please email info@watotowabaraka.org
We hope to hear from you soon.

These are underprividged girls that we provide sanitary towels and underwear to, every month.

This is makuyu town, next to the orphanage

inside pundamilia village, area around Watoto orphanage

kids at a local primary school

These are joyful kids at a local primary school.

The kids and Joseph, a volunteer from Ireland at the orphanage compound