Volunteers For Peace: Malawi

VFP offers over 3400 affordable, short-term voluntary service projects in 100+ countries, including more than 12 in Malawi. In 2007 VFP has cooperated with the Raising Malawi project, in their mission to offer lasting solutions for the orphans of that very poor country. Along with our existing partner in Malawi, the AYISE organization, this collaboration will send volunteers to provide direct physical support, including assistance with food, medical care and education. These international voluntary service projects are an opportunity to participate in meaningful community service while living and interacting in an intercultural environment.

Work projects include: construction/renovation of low-income housing or community buildings, historic preservation, archeology; environmental projects such as trail building, environmental education, wildlife surveying, park maintenance, organic farming; social services working with children, the elderly, physically or mentally handicapped, refugees, minority groups, drug/alcohol recovery, AIDS education; as well as arts projects and festivals.

Most projects are limited to ages 18 and up and there are over 250 programs just for ages 15-17. International voluntary service projects are usually from May through September and are of 2 to 3 weeks in duration, although there are 200+ projects scheduled for the 'off-season.' A USD 350 per-project registration fee includes accommodation and food. There may be a small additional fee for projects in developing countries. Transportation is arranged and paid for by the volunteer. VFP offers a free newsletter which provides a clear description of what the program is about including many photos of volunteers in action.