Volunteer in Tanzania

It’s made me appreciate so much more and want to help others. It made me see how happy you can really be.

It’s definitely worth going though IVHQ for your first time volunteering for the support and the whole experience.

The local team in Arusha is amazing. If you have any thing on your mind, they are there to help you immediately. Also when everything is okay, the local team are just really fun to talk with and hang out with. Full of love!!

I felt everything I needed to make the trip successfully was made available to me by IVHQ. I did not have any apprehension about travelling or being in Tanzania. The support team on site was great and very approachable.

The meals were good and helped me learn a little more about Tanzania. It was a pleasure to sit around the dinner table and discuss the days we all had.

Even though I had a small part in the overall project, I still felt that my trip was worth it. I gained a greater appreciation for all that I have here in the States. I made some good friends and grew in my confidence. It can be a little scary to go, but it is so very worth it. I am 61 years old so age is no reason to stay away.

The guidance and preparation resources I received from IVHQ before starting my trip were very helpful. The pre-departure information provided a comprehensive overview of what to expect, including cultural insights, logistical details, and tips for adjusting to life in Tanzania. The orientation materials helped me understand the program structure and my role in the childcare project, which made me feel more confident as I prepared for the trip. I also appreciated the advice on health and safety, as it ensured I felt well prepared to handle any challenges. Overall, IVHQ’s resources made the transition to volunteering abroad smoother and more organized.

The support I received from the local team was exceptional. They were incredibly kind, welcoming, and always ready to offer assistance whenever I needed it. From the moment I arrived, they made sure I felt comfortable and supported, whether it was helping me adjust to the local culture or providing guidance with my volunteer tasks. Their genuine care for the volunteers and the local community was evident, and I felt like I was part of a team working together towards a common goal. The local team truly made my experience unforgettable.

The impact of my volunteering experience in Tanzania was both profound and rewarding. Teaching English to the children at the daycare felt like a small but meaningful contribution to their future opportunities. It was heartening to see their progress, and I hope the skills they learned will stay with them as they continue their education. On a personal level, my time in Tanzania also had a lasting impact. It deepened my understanding of global issues, strengthened my teaching abilities, and broadened my perspective on the world. Volunteering abroad not only helped the local community but also helped me grow in ways I never expected.

The accommodation was excellent. It was located in a safe area, which made me feel secure throughout my stay. The living spaces were comfortable and well maintained, offering a nice and relaxing environment after a day of volunteering. I appreciated the cozy atmosphere, and the facilities provided everything I needed for a pleasant stay. Overall, the accommodation was a great part of my experience and contributed to making my time in Tanzania enjoyable.

The meals were wonderful, clean, delicious, and satisfying. I really enjoyed the variety of local dishes, which allowed me to experience the authentic flavors of Tanzanian cuisine. The food was always prepared with care, and I appreciated how it was both nourishing and tasty. It was a highlight of the experience, as it not only fueled me for my volunteer work but also offered a deeper connection to the culture.

My experience in Tanzania was incredibly enriching, both personally and professionally. I gained a deeper understanding of the local culture, developed new teaching skills, and formed meaningful connections with the children and the local community. I also gained valuable insights into adaptability and flexibility, as volunteering abroad often comes with unexpected challenges.

For anyone hesitant about joining this program, I would encourage you to take the leap. It’s normal to feel apprehensive about being in a new environment, but the support from the local team and the sense of purpose in your work will make it all worthwhile. Volunteering abroad is a life changing experience that will broaden your perspective and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Embrace the adventure, it will be worth it!

Any questions and queries I had were answered fully by the IVHQ team and Jessica Chadwick, who organized the group trip I attended. The local team was great and very helpful, especially on our orientation day.

Through this experience, I've gained confidence and friendship from people across the globe. Give it a go for at least two weeks as the longer you're at placement, the more you gain. If possible try speaking to people who will be there at the same time before arriving through social media, as seeing a friendly face on arrival makes you feel more comfortable quicker.

Also, I love how you’re immediately connected with people who can help. I went with Jess Chadwick, and she was amazing—so helpful, friendly, and easy to get along with. Having the chance to go with an IVHQ ambassador was such a fantastic idea. It made the whole experience much less intimidating, especially since I wasn’t confident about doing a trip like this on my own. It’s the perfect way to ease into an adventure like this!

Honestly, it’s really hard to put my experience into words. But if i had to, I’d define as: powerful, life changing and impactful. The bond I have created with the students and teachers at the day care is so special. There so much support from the moment you book until you get to placement. You get lots of support in country!