Jaipur Volunteer Project

Specialized Project: Early Education & Child Care

The main objective of these projects is to help some of the most vulnerable of any community, young children. Unable to work or provide for themselves just yet, local children need the help of their community to stay healthy, grow, learn & transition into productive & successful members of society. These volunteer projects are designed to help aid this process for both orphans & children coming from families with fewer resources. Volunteers may also decide they want to help with those children affected by HIV/AIDS who also need care, education & support during their treatment regimen. 
Some of the activities that volunteers may be responsible for:

• Monitor nutrition & growth in children;
• Help develop psycho social & motor skills;
• Plan recreational activities;
• Provide counseling, care & support to children affected by HIV/AIDS.

Specialized Project: Women Empowerment

The purpose of these projects is to provide women with the resources they need to be successful at home, work & in the community. Women are often disenfranchised in the community, having been unable to attend school or obtain the skills necessary to advance themselves economically. The programs work to correct this discrepancy by offering education & support that will allow women to be self-reliant.  
Volunteer activities include:

• Leading & assisting in Adult literacy classes;
• Empowerment through computer training & English classes;
• Vocational training;
• Health & hygiene awareness;
• Advocacy.

Specialized Project: Education

Participants work with the local community to improve the quality of education & care in day care centers, special institutions, & regular schools. These activities are geared towards expanding the horizon of this often neglected section of the community with the purpose of giving them a sense of self-worth & empowerment. This includes communities of children who have been limited to helping with area trades instead of getting a broader education. 
The activities done by volunteers primarily relate to two broad areas: education & empowerment. While the needs of each region differ due to varied cultures, climate, & social conditions, there are some common activities offered:

• Preparing teaching materials for instruction;
• Teaching mathematics, language & computer skills through creative & interactive lessons;
• Planning recreational activities;
• Providing additional support to those students who have fallen behind;
• Absorbing some of the children’s communal responsibilities so that they may have time to attend schools & lessons.

Specialized Project: Community Development Work

The project work is dependent upon the specific needs of the individual village, the condition of its public facilities & its social issues at stake, as well as the interests & skill sets of the volunteers. 
The following is a general list of work needed:

• Repairing & improving work areas, classrooms & centers in area educational facilities;
• Painting educational materials & art work on walls & in common spaces;
• Enhancing plantation & playground areas;
• Spreading awareness on the importance of facility maintenance & beautification.

Optional Pre/Post-Project Tours

• Taj Mahal – Built in the 17th century by the fifth Mughal emperor, in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
• Fatehpur Sikri – City built in Red Sandstone. One of the finest examples of Hindu & Muslim architecture.
• Ajanta-Ellora Caves – Remarkable reliefs, sculptures, & architecture that represent the three faiths of Hinduism, Buddhism & Jainism. Carved in between 350 AD - 700 AD.