Community healthcare volunteering, South Africa

Planet

South Africa has a conservation culture and from the start, we encourage our guests to join us in our efforts to ensure the preservation of water, save energy and respect our natural environment. We share tips in our Pre-Trip Guide which we send guests before departure. We encourage tourists to visit attractions that promote the preservation of the environment and the conservation of wildlife.

This project sits 10 minutes from Blue Flag beach which is an international accreditation awarded to beaches that display excellence through meeting 33 criteria covering four categories: environmental education and information, water quality, environmental management, and safety and services. Visitors can also visit the Cheetah Sanctuary in the area and Monkey Town Primate centre which is committed to the rehabilitation of cheetahs and education of wildlife.

The country is currently battling an energy crisis called, load shedding. Most of our partners have implemented energy-saving practices and follow protocols and guidelines to ensure safe environments for staff and guests. They have installed smart switches in various areas to switch off lights etc when not needed. Switching off geysers in guest rooms when they are not in use. Most have replaced all light bulbs with LED energy-saving bulbs.

People

This project is dear to our hearts and we have first-hand experience volunteering. This non-profit organisation sits in one of the poorest communities in the Helderberg area and brings health care to the chronically ill. Your volunteering time here is invaluable and has the potential to feed the hungry and care for those who are too sick to get to the hospital. Preventative dental care is also provided here. The centre is a beacon of hope and literally saves lives, recognized by the Department of Health in Cape Town. 5% of the project fees go towards fighting poverty and the well-being of the desperately poor.

Our screening process helps us to match the skills and experience to the needs of the project for greater impact. All our suppliers for transport, accommodation and food are from the area to ensure that the income stays within the community, growing the local economy. Food is sourced from local markets and greengrocers. Volunteers help with the preparation of food and enjoy lunchtime around the table with the locals. There is no food waste in this community. Volunteers are within walking distance of amenities.