Volunteer in Ghana
VIP invites you to explore Ghana and to learn about its people and culture while also contributing to its growth and development. Since March 2001, when the Government of Ghana took the bold step of taking advantage of the Enhanced Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative, more funds have been released for social sector spending and poverty reduction programs. However, an enormous amount of work still needs to be done to bring about an improved economic future for the majority of Ghana's citizens.
In selecting community service projects, VIP has focused on areas of greatest need where not much assistance is available from the government or other NGOs. These areas include Rural Education, Rural Development, Health, Small Scale Enterprises, Orphanages, MarketFilm and Television, and Group Community Service Projects.
Volunteer Abroad Program Overview — Ghana
Arrival - Program Fees - Payment Schedule
Arrival and Orientation
Volunteers will arrive in Accra and will be met by Halima Sadiya Adam, our program supervisor, or one of the other staff members. A 2-day orientation program begins the day after arrival and includes the social structure of Ghana, lectures on political and economic history, survival language lessons, cultural do’s and don’ts, health matters, socially accepted behaviors, work ethics in Ghana, expectations of the institution and the host project. You will also visit sites of interest in downtown Accra such as the Arts Center, the Markola Market, Aburi Gardens and the Nkrumah Mausoleum.
Following orientation you will begin your volunteer service. Ghana students. If your assignment is outside of Accra you will be accompanied by one of our staff or a local guide to facilitate your safe and timely arrival at your destination. Each volunteer is assigned a supervisor who will deal with matters such as culture shock, concerns of the volunteer or host project, project understanding and resolution of any problems or disputes. Volunteer service programs may last from 3 to 12 months depending on the program you choose.
Typical volunteer assignments may include teaching English or computer skills, developing library facilities, assisting with income generating activities, helping in a rural health post, working with abandoned children or AIDS orphans, teaching art, music, dance or sports. Accommodations may be with a Ghanaian host family or on-site, depending upon the location and nature of your volunteer assignment.
Program Fees 2008
| Length of Stay | Fee |
|---|---|
| Note: Published prices remain subject to change in case of major currency fluctuations. Contact your sending office. | |
| 2 week | US$ 900 |
| 4 week | US$ 1455 |
| 6 week | US$ 1600 |
| 3 months | US$ 2415 |
| 6 months | US$ 3100 |
| 9 months | US$ 3670 |
| 12 months | US$ 4100 |
What is Included
- Application processing, interview and pre-departure information
- A 2-day orientation including activities, rooms and meals
- Round Trip Travel to and from Host Community/Project.
- Homestay with a host family including 3 meals on weekends 2 on weekdays, or appropriate accommodation with meals in the regions except Accra (In Accra we provide homestay only)
- Community Service Placement tailored to suit the skills and interests of the participant
- On going supervision and support
What isn't Included
- Transportation to and from Ghana, passport and visa fees if any
- Daily Transportation to the project
- Lunches during the week
- Health and Accident Insurance
- Personal expenses, including international phone calls
Payment Schedule
A deposit of 20% of the total program fee is required with your application. It is non-refundable upon notification of acceptance and is applied to the total program fee. The balance of the program fee is required 30 days prior to departure.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation after acceptance and prior to placement confirmation - the deposit is forfeited.
- Cancellation after confirmation of placement - 50% of the program fee is forfeited.
- No Show or Early Departure from Program - 100% of program fee is forfeited.
