Why Volunteer Abroad?

 

Volunteering creates a feeling of personal satisfaction.  It grants you a privilege not afforded to the typical tourist: a unique opportunity to experience local everyday life in another country while making a positive impact.  Volunteering abroad immerses you in a new culture which improves your language skills, gives insight of a culture from the inside out and hopefully broadens your view of the World.

 

Is HFLW a NonProfit 501(c) (3) Organization?

Yes we are.  Since 2008 we have been a 501(c) (3).  Volunteering with 501(c)(3) organizations allows you, the participant to claim your travel expenses when you file your yearly tax return.  Most of your travel expenses toward the volunteer trip including airfare and the program fee can be deducted.  Our programs strictly adhere to the IRS requirement that you volunteer/work, on average, eight hours per day, 5 days a week.  For questions on tax exemptions or charitable contributions, refer to the IRS publication 526.  You can search for these types of 501(c)(3) volunteer organizations at Guidestar.org

Why volunteer with us?
Hearts For Love Worldwide is a small organization that offers customized program placements and provide a one-on-one personalized experience. You are not another number with us!  We cater to the individual looking for a unique volunteer travel experience.  Knowing that people often have a limited time frame, we offer both short and long term placements ranging from 2 weeks to 2 months. We know that people like choices.  For our programs you get to choose the type of program you work with in Kenya, when and for how long.  At this time we have fixed start dates beginning on the 1st or 15th of each month.  We offer a yearly 55+ group volunteer adventure experience.  Volunteer with us because we are safe and go out of our way to make sure that your experience has fulfilled your dream.
  
Is volunteering in Kenya for me?
Only you can answer this question.  Volunteering in another country can be both challenging and rewarding.  Our programs are not summer camps. You will not have every minute of every work day planned for you.  You must be an inventive self-starter who can handle situations where schedules are occasionally non-existent and resources are scarce. Flexibility and patience are the keys to having a satisfying experience.  Developing countries, in particular are not as obsessed with time as the US or Europe.  NGOs, international non-profits and volunteer organizations are almost always understaffed.  If you are willing and able to accept this, volunteering abroad can lead to an unlimited feeling of personal satisfaction. 

Why should I pay to volunteer?

You are not paying for your volunteer work; you are making a financial contribution to support the needy communities where our programs are based.  Donations are helping to stimulate the local economies with hosting jobs, with new constructions at local schools and orphanages, and with much needed medical supplies to rural clinics.  HFLW works tirelessly year round to support our volunteers, and also to serve the local communities where we are based.  As a non religious, non government agency, we receive 100% of our funding from volunteer program donations, private contributors, and fund-raising activities.
 
Do most Volunteers Fund-raise?
Yes!  We know the cost of volunteering abroad can be extremely daunting.  There are transportation costs, program fees, visa/vaccinations expenses to consider, then your everyday living costs while you're away.  Some volunteers pay for their entire trip through fund raising and have extra to assist the project program they are assigned to.  After you submit your application and US $150 deposit, we will email you a fund-raising guideline with helpful information.

Is there an age requirement?

We accept volunteers 18 years and older. We do not have a maximum age limit in place, as an increasing number of volunteers are retirees.  As long as you are physically and mentally healthy with an open mind you shouldn't have any problems participating on our programs.

Do I have to be a US citizen to participate?

No. We accept and encourage participants from around the world.

Do I have to be a US citizen to participate in the grant and scholarship programs?

Yes, at this time grants and scholarships are awarded to US citizens only.

How is my program fee being used?

The program fee that you are paying pays the host family so that they can provide you with meals and accommodations, in country transportation, your orientation, the 24/7 assist from the volunteer coordinators in Kenya.  The project you are assigned to as well benefits from your program fee. We allocated a very small percentage of the program fee for our US overhead administrative expenses.  We also use a percentage for on-going recruitment, marketing project development costs, travel expenses.  Our company goal is to be sustainable and offer professional support and services.  We cannot do this without the volunteer program fee.

What is the average length of a program?

We offer short term programs ranging from 2 to 3 weeks, or as long term placements up to 2 months. Special arrangements may be made if you would like to extend your program longer than the two months.  Most volunteers commit to a 2 week program allowing enough time to acclimate to their new surroundings as well as complete orientation and still feel as though they made a contribution to the program.

Do I need a passport and visa?

Yes, you need a passport, with an expiration that is no less than 6 months from the time of travel. 
Visa requirements differ by country, based on the length of time and nationality of the volunteer.  Please check the local government within your home country about specific requirements.  
For US participants: https://www.kenyaembassy.com/nyservices/appforvisaonline.aspx  https://www.kenyaconsulatela.com/services/appforvisaonline.aspx

Is there an application deadline?

Most people will sign up 3-6 months prior to traveling. You should apply no later than 45 days before your intended start date. Some exceptions can be made for last minute traveling, please contact us for more details.

Do I need immunizations?

Kenya does require some vaccinations.  We urge participants to consult a travel doctor at least two months before arriving in Kenya, to discuss any necessary immunizations and for advice on staying healthy while traveling. 

Do I have to book my plane tickets myself?

Yes, you do. We aim to be as flexible as possible and allow our volunteers to pick their travel dates, carrier and times of departure.  Volunteers that have discounts or mileage to use can create a huge savings for themselves and this is not possible if we planned a volunteer program including airfare.  We want to pass all the savings we can onto you.

Is travel insurance included in the program?

HFLW does not provide insurance for the simple reason that we think our participants should be able to decide on the nature of their own coverage.  Some insurances are very inexpensive.  We recommend STA International Travel insurance, Tel: 877-777-8717 or www.volunteercard.com. More affordable insurance sources are Patriot Insurance and Mutli-National Underwriters.  Insurance is not required but recommended.

Can I volunteer with my sister/friend/husband/boyfriend?

Yes!  We can arrange for you to live and work together in the same host family and placement.  In fact HFLW offers a $100 per person discount if two or more volunteer together in the same program at the same time. 

What qualifications or skills do I need?

There are no qualifications necessary except for our medical programs.  These programs are available for medical professionals and you will need to submit your credentials before leaving the country and at your placement. There is no TEFL or teaching qualifications needed for our teaching programs.  You will be only assisting and aiding the teachers from primary to secondary level.  As a participant in any program HFLW requires that you retain a fingerprint clearance/or police card from your home country. 

Do I need to bring my own supplies from home, or are they provided?

Most schools, clinics and orphanages which you will be placed in are very under resourced.  Supplies from home that would be of benefit to you should be taken with you.  You can receive more specific information once you are assigned to your program.  You will know this before you leave your home country.  At times it is suggested that you wait until you arrive on your project, see what is needed for your program, and then purchase locally as it helps the economy and assures for the corrects needs to be met.  Medical volunteers should bring their own lab coats and rubber gloves.

Do I need to know the local language?

No, English is used in Kenya although the local people will speak their native language Swahili.  The children and others will be teaching you their language and before you know it you will be an expert and will have learned a new language!

What if I have more questions?

If you have any questions or would like to discuss our programs in more detail, please don't hesitate to contact us by emailing loryjacobs@heartsforloveworldwide.org or calling us at: (928)-451-2522.  I welcome all inquiries as this will make it easier for you to make a decision between us and other larger organizations.  You will find that Hearts For Love Worldwide may be small but big in heart and soul with our objective to care and meet the needs of our volunteers and those recipients in Kenya.
 
How do I apply for the program?
Choose the program that you are interested in. Submit your application.  You will be notified of your acceptance.  Once notified you will be asked to pay your deposit fee of $150 to secure your placement in the program.  The deposit fee is transferable and included in your program fee. Your deposit fee may be used up to three years from acceptance.  Once you have paid your deposit fee you will be given the next steps to follow in taking your adventure to Kenya!

How do I pay my deposit and/or program fees?

  • You may pay for your deposit and/or program fees either online using a credit /debit card or PayPal through our secure system or mail a cashiers check, personal check or money order to our office.  See Contact US. 
  • Your remainder of your program fee will be due and payable 45 days prior to your volunteer departure by either credit/debit card, PayPal, cashiers check or money order.  If you send a personal check for the balance due it must clear the bank before departing.
  • For International payments on deposits/program fees we accept bank wire transfers.  Volunteers are responsible for their wire transfer fee.

What is the deadline for submitting my Form?

Most people will sign up 3-9 months prior to traveling.  You should apply no later than 45 days before your intended start date; if you are on the deadline you should submit all the paperwork and the full payment the same day.  Some exceptions can be made for last minute traveling, please contact us for more details.

How many hours and days I’m working each week?

You are expected to work 40 hours a week, 8 hours a day, the supervisors should be notified when you arrive and leave the program each day.  If there is a holiday you may take the holiday as well or inform your coordinator you will take that day off or need days off.  During your volunteer assignment you may want to do sightseeing or a safari.  These arrangements can be made without difficulty as long as your program director is notified before you go.  Most volunteers will make travel arrangements for after their completion of their program.  You cannot come to Kenya and not see what this beautiful country has to offer so we are flexible.

Who are your partners abroad?

Our local partners are NGO’s, private institutions and community organizations dedicated to the improvement of their communities.  They are leaders in the community and social activists knowledgeable in the needs of their society and offer insight and guidance to our volunteers.  They believe in the benefit of international assistance and value our volunteer's time, skills and knowledge.

Will I be met at the airport?

The Country Coordinator and staff will pick you up from the airport in Kenya if and when you inform us of your flight schedule, in writing, at least four weeks in advance of your arrival in Kenya.  Unfortunately, travel delays in developing countries are a common occurrence.  If, due to unforeseen circumstances, you are delayed or miss a flight, it is your responsibility to contact the Country Coordinator or HFLW US office.  You will also be provided an emergency telephone number to reach the HFLW US office to report any delays.

Will I be on my own or will I be with other volunteers?

Our programs are customized and individual based.  This being said, you will never be isolated.  Our hosting organizations receive volunteers year round, so you may have the chance to meet other volunteers.  There may be times that other volunteers will be at the same placement as you, and this can be up to 2 or 3 other volunteers. You will have the support of the Volunteer Coordinator, Program and Project Coordinators in Kenya, plus the host family that you live with.  Believe me ~ you will be part of a family while you are in Kenya! 

Will I have free time to travel when I'm there?

Yes, most programs are based Monday-Friday, with weekends free.  Volunteers often take this opportunity to arrange weekend getaways to places of interest.  Most volunteers travel extensively after the end of their placements, our Volunteer Coordinators can give suggestions and tips for trips.

What is the typical work schedule?

For volunteers working in schools it is more or less the same working hours as you would find in Western countries.  Hours for orphanages or day care will be more flexible.  Volunteers should expect to work 7-8 hours per day (5 days a week).

Is there any training involved?

We provide in-country detailed orientation on arrival to help familiarize you with the city where you will be living.  You will be shown how to use public transportation, where to exchange money, local restaurants and a general sightseeing tour of the area you will live in.  Prior to your departure for your volunteer adventure you will be given detailed information to familiarize yourself to what to expect on your trip.

Is there Hearts For Love Worldwide staff in-country when I am traveling?

Yes, we have local Volunteer Coordinators in Kenya.  The HFLW Volunteer Coordinators along with cooperation from us here in the US will be responsible for coordinating the airport transfers, placement orientations, and introduction to the local accommodations or Home Stay arrangements. Our HFLW Volunteer Coordinators are natives of our host country.  Our Coordinators are professionals, fully trained and enthusiastic about sharing knowledge and love of their country.  All of our personnel including the host families and the project directors and their projects have been personally interviewed and approved by myself.  I may also be available in country from time to time as I travel there often to assist in our program projects.

What type of accommodations are provided for volunteers?

The majority of our volunteers live with a local host family.  These families have a working relationship with HFLW and are deemed suitable by our Project Coordinators based on sanitation, security and comfort.  A Home Stay provides firsthand insight into the local culture and helps with learning the local language.  It also acts as an additional in-country support network.  In some locations, a local guesthouse or shared volunteer accommodations are provided.  Although you should not expect western standards, the accommodation are good by local standards, clean and secure. 

Do most volunteers become sick? What happens if I do?

Most volunteers do not experience any major medical problems.  The most common complaint is an upset stomach as one's body is introduced to new foods.  If you take sensible precautions and follow the guidelines we suggest on healthy traveling (such as using bottled water and avoid eating uncooked food) you should not have any major issues.  There are several medical facilities in all areas of where you will be volunteering.  However, if you do have any serious medical complaints you are advised to contact our Volunteer Coordinators for immediate hands-on assistance.

Can I stay longer than 8 weeks?

Yes we can arrange for longer stays past 8 weeks.  Special arrangements can be made, fees adjusted and home stay accommodations secured before leaving. You can stay up to 6 months and then you must renew your visa. The commitment to be in a program longer than 8 weeks must be decided prior to leaving.  You must pay all necessary fees discussed for longer placement.  Remember that once you sign up for a program time we cannot change it once you are in country, so if you want to go longer than 8 weeks please inform us before you go.

What about the security in the countries?

We choose our locations based on the stability of the government, low crime rates, security and the integrity of the hosting community.  We have a local Volunteer Coordinator on-site for assistance.  By taking basic precautions and knowing basic "street smarts" you should not have any problems traveling abroad.
 
 
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