Your Typical Itinerary
The Volunteer Project - Polonnaruwa
The project is located in the breathtaking surroundings of Polonnaruwa and is set amongst seven acres of land, which benefits from the vegetation of Mangoes and Margosa. The home accommodates orphans, abandoned or helpless boys, girls and elders. Currently it houses around 35 girls between the ages of five and 18 years, 20 boys between the ages of five and 16 years, 15 male adults and five female adults.
There are seven buildings on site so that each age group has a separate living quarter. There are also common areas including a library, office building and kitchen.
The home was set up in 1965 and since then it has received financial aid from supporters and the government. Amongst many achievements, the home now has a library and children’s playground and soon they will also have a study room/Auditorium.
There are three Matrons who look after the home with the help of supporting staff. Volunteers are needed to offer much valuable support to the orphans and people in need.
All of the children attend school up until the age of 16/18 years. At this age they will receive guidance as to what they should do with their future. They will either be assisted to continue their studies through University, continue with vocational training or helped to find employment.
Volunteers can make a tremendous contribution in all departments by looking after the children as well as the elders. By helping the children improve their English and maths skills you can create more opportunities for them and make a positive impact on their lives.
You may also help with creative lessons, games, drama, sports and reading.
A Typical Day at Polonnaruwa:
- 08:00 - Leave your home-stay after breakfast and be taken to the home.
- 08:15 - Arrival at the home (many children will already be at school)
- 08:15-13:00 - Cleaning up the interior and exterior of the home, buildings and garden. Helping in the kitchen to prepare lunch. Helping the elders with their work, looking after them and spending time with them. It is appreciated if you could provide some company for the older generation based at the home as it can be very lonely for them.
- 13:00 - 13:30 - Get the lunch ready for the children who will be returning from school.
- 14:00 - Have lunch with the children.
- 14:30 - 17:00 - Spend time with the children helping them with their studies, outdoor activities and games, entertaining them.
- 17:00 - Return to your home-stay.
This is subject to change and is quite flexible. On arrival at the project you can discuss your timetable with the matrons and agree on a timetable that suits you.
Volunteer Project - Colombo
You will be working in a Girls Orphanage that houses children between two and 18 years old. The Orphanage also houses elderly women.
You will be responsible for looking after the children, helping to dress them, assisting with medical check ups, teaching some English, helping with homework, some washing up, handicraft activities and playing during recreation.
It would also be appreciated if you could provide some company for the older generation based at the Orphanage as it can be very lonely for them.
Weekends are free days, plus there is a day off each month when there is a full moon. There is at least one public holiday off each month.
A Typical Day in Colombo:
- 07:00 - Breakfast. After breakfast you will walk to the orphanage.
- 12:30 - 13:00 - Lunchtime
- 16:30 - 17:00 - Finish at orphanage
Please note: Itineraries and activities are subject to change
