Care & Community - GHANA Project Information for Care and Community in Ghana

Our Care and Community Placements in Ghana

Due to the vast number of problems Ghana experiences, and the lack of government institutions in existence to help impoverished children, the vast majority of underprivileged Ghanaian children find themselves in private orphanages which are funded and run by generous individuals who want to do something to help. These private orphanages are often just as understaffed and under funded as the governmental ones, but are very worthwhile as they increase the number of children in Ghana that are offered a steady, nurturing environment. Our care project is aimed at providing some relief to the staff in these institutions, as well as ensuring that the children get some of the affection they need and deserve so they can live as normal a childhood as possible.

Care is our most popular project in Ghana, with more than 13 placements in the three regions where we work, and between 20 to 40 volunteers undertaking placements each year. You might choose to work in one of the larger orphanages like Osu Children's Home in Accra which houses over 150 children, or a much smaller one like Human Service Trust in Cape Coast which has closer to 25. Volunteers with relevant experience have the opportunity to offer their skills in helping children with disabilities at the New Horizon Special School in Accra or teaching and caring for the blind in the Akuapem Hills area.

Volunteers join us for periods of 2 weeks to 12 months and their input in the orphanages and care centres where we work is greatly needed and appreciated. The vital input and enthusiasm of the volunteers compliments the work of the full time members of staff at the projects and is of great benefit to all parties involved.

Every volunteer's role is different but a typical day may be as follows; you normally arrive at work by about 8am, to be greeted by many enthusiastic children. You will be able to assist with the children having basic lessons, using lots of songs, games and stories to keep them entertained. The younger children require more individual attention, but will also be keen to play and sing. All the children have lunch at the centre, so you can also assist the younger children and babies at meal times. The volunteer will also be able to do some teaching of basic English or any subject they have knowledge in.

The thing all the care placements have in common is that they are designed to help children who have precious few other people to whom they can turn. This work can be challenging, but it is also fun and enjoyable, and greatly appreciated by the children and staff. Probably the greatest value of a volunteer is to bring some fun into the lives of these children, many of whom are from difficult backgrounds. Simply by being there, playing games, showing affection and providing some much needed love and attention you will be making an important contribution.