Freepackers

4.9 rating out of 30 reviews

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Ylva | 26, Netherlands
The Surf and Adventure program consists of spending mornings at a township, spending the most amazing time helping the teachers run their little schools, helping shape the kids education and making bonds with the wonderful teachers. The afternoons are full of fun, doing sport activities (surfing, skating, swimming etc.) with teens from the same neighbourhood/township where you spend your mornings. Having experience as a teacher or being good at surfing etc. is not a requirement (trust me, after three months on a surfing board I still could not do it), the only thing you need is a positive attitude and motivation to make something of your day, because you are there for the kids! The organisation SAVE has staff that love their work and it shows, they put a lot of effort to shape the program (when the kids have holiday weeks they arranged for us to take them into capetown and see museums for example!) and are also there for you on a personal level (when missing family or feeling sick).
5 years ago
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Jolijn | 25, Netherlands
Just two months ago I was a volunteer in South Africa and I had the best time of my life! In the mornings we were helping the teachers at the pre schools, and in the afternoon we were playing sports with kids from a primary school. It is amazing to see the smile on the faces of these kids when you are playing with them. It really brightens my day! What is so special about this NGO is that the staff and the volunteers are so passionate about the work they do. With the work they do, they can make small but also big changes in the lives of these kids. And how special is it, that with even little actions, you already can make a big difference in the lifes of these kids. All i want to say is thank you for giving me an amazing time in Africa ❤️
5 years ago
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Wout | Belgium
Volunteering here was one of the best decisions I've ever made in my life. it is a wonderful organization that cares a lot about the community. The people that run it are dedicated and have their heart in the right place. These people were kind, helpful, hardworking. And most importantly they made you feel welcome. The other volunteers I worked with became good friends of me. We were a very intimate group of people who loved working together as a team, trying to educate and entertain the kids. The 4 weeks I spend in South Africa were some of the best weeks of my life. I will honestly never forget what this program has done for me and what it has taught me. The kids and teachers were incredibly nice and helpful and I still miss them every day. I hope I can come back someday and see them all again.
5 years ago
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Holly
It was really nice. I got to try many things that I would not have a chance to do in HK my home town. We also witnessed the magical moments of baby turtles returning to the sea female turtles laying eggs etc. Everything was well taken care of by our friendly and brother-like local coordinator Amal. He was very caring and help us with everything. He encouraged us to try out different jobs even the ones out of our expectations such as construction and leading tours. I love animals and I think this is the best chance I could have to get closer with them and contribute. The hatchery is doing a great job so I believe you should continue working with them.
7 years ago
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Quinn
My overall experience was very rewarding for me. I was able to thoroughly engage in another culture and learn some aspects of the locals lives. I am very grateful for Volunteering Solutions and the programs they have offered me over the years. The head program organizer was very helpful and a useful resource. He was constantly reliable. I was hoping for some sort of cooking so I can do some of my own cooking. However the food that was provided was always more than enough and enjoyable. The turtle hatchery was amazing and I wish I could have spent more time of the day working there. The employees their were very passionate about their work and you could really feel their sincerity they have towards the turtles. They were also very helpful and a reliable resource as well.
7 years ago
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Helena | Portugal
It was a unique experience. It was a month of full new experiences, new culture, new people, new faces and smiles! I had an amazing staff and other volunteers that always had made this experience even more pleasant! Program: Teaching, Women Empowerment, Medical & Disabled Care - India
9 years ago
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Anne-marie | 48, Female
This is a great option for short term volunteers. Fort Kochi city is gorgeous, safe and really welcoming. There are loads of lovely restaurants, shops and markets so it is a nice place to explore when you are not with the school. The organization will organise great tours for you on your weekends off. My homestay was really great, the family made me really welcome and they added to the fun and authenticity of the whole experience. My volunteering experience was mostly with children in the school, and also with teacher some of the mum's English. They were wonderful people, I really enjoyed it. I had no previous experience of volunteering or teaching, I think if you have experience it is better for the children of course - but the most important think is to be enthusiastic, flexible and caring towards your young charges! I would recommend this program to people who want to add on some volunteer experience to their trip to India. Or if you haven't been to India, it is a very good place to start.
10 years ago
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Liz | 48, Female
The volunteer teaching program in India was a great experience. Having never taught children before the first couple of days were a bit daunting but by day three I was very comfortable. The kids were adorable and loved interacting with us. Just seeing their faces light up each day when we arrived was amazing. I will never forget them.
10 years ago
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Alison | 48, Female
I was a bit scared to begin with, it was my first time traveling on my own and the furthest East I had been. When I arrived in Calcutta, I saw no other Westerner, but..........I felt India. I felt part of the scene, part of the culture and part of the community. The charity I volunteered for added another dimension to my experience. The experience I had has enthused my desire to travel and hopefully have other wonderful experiences. Thank you!
10 years ago