Gap Year Expeditions, Global Volunteering & Conservation Projects – Greenforce

Select from one of these stunning destinations:

Himalayas
Nestled in the valleys of the Himalayas, the state of Himachal Pradesh is known for its beautiful nature and pleasant climate during the harsh Indian summer. Volunteers coming on our projects in Himachal Pradesh can not only enjoy beautiful snow capped mountains outside their windows, but also take up adventure activities like trekking/rafting or cultural trips to places like Dharamsala, home to the Dalai Lama and centre for Tibetan culture.

Rajasthan
The State of Rajasthan in the north-west of India is often called the most colourful desert in the World. Known for its rich heritage, colourful folk culture and festivals, Rajasthan is the Number One attraction for visitors from all over the world. Special experiences like Camel Safaris, Tiger Safaris, excursions to visit famous forts and palaces offer some of the most distinct experiences to our volunteers coming to this part of India.

Jaipur

Within the state of Rajasthan lies Jaipur, once the stronghold of clan rulers whose three hill forts and series of palaces in the city are important attractions. Known as the Pink City because of the color of the stone used exclusively in the walled city, Jaipur is one of India’s most renowned tourist destinations for its blend of authentic Indian culture and modern lifestyles. In the afternoons and evenings after work, participants can look forward to exploring Jaipur’s many cultural places of interest. Some of the most famous places to visit are: Amber Fort, Nahargarh fort, Albert hall museum, Jantar mantar observatory, Hawa Mahal palace.

What I’ll be doing?

Volunteers have a dramatic effect on empowerment of young adolescent girls and adult women who have been victimized by unequal gender norms. When Indian women meet confident and independent women volunteers, travelling on their own, there often is an initial phase of awe. But through the development of personal relationships and the implementation of organized activities, international volunteers are met with full embracement and frequent idolization.

Both male and female volunteers have a unique affect—female volunteers serve as a powerful role model to women and male volunteers help dispel the credibility of unequal gender roles. When girls are habitually absent from school, volunteers make individual visits to parents, encouraging them to send their daughters back. Volunteers organize special workshops for adolescent girls and adult women, teaching conversational English, a vital asset to their educational and professional prospects. Computer classes and basic vocational skills are also taught by volunteers, building women’s confidence, supporting talents, and promoting a well-rounded professional background.

But far beyond these activities, volunteers develop meaningful relationships with the young girls and adult women, sustaining their motivation to grow into independent and knowledgeable women. Gradually but steadily, volunteers help to redress gender inequality by empowering one young girl or adult women at a time with education, skills, and self-confidence.

Points to note:
• On receipt of deposit, you’ll receive a Welcome e-mail with access to your personal page.
• We provide helpful advice on flights, insurance and more.
• A staff member is in India all year round.

What will I achieve?

• You will have the chance to see some the world’s most amazing scenery, and experience a rich and ancient culture.
• You will have the possibility to network with teachers and see what life is like on the other side of the world.
• You will set your CV apart from the rest, through gaining skills and experiences which look favourable to employers.
• You will be having a massive impact on the local community and really make a positive difference.
• Have fun and make friends for life

Where will I live?

In all project areas, volunteers are accommodated in comfortable, safe and supported facilities. Volunteers stay with host families. Volunteers will also have access to meeting rooms where volunteers can hold meetings, socialize, and prepare resources and activities for project work. This setting allows participants to freely interact with other like-minded international people and to secure privacy and comfort. Volunteers are encouraged to be model citizens within the local area and be sensitive to cultural the differences.

Money

• The currency is Rupees. The best way to carry your money is to split it between separate payment methods, e.g. cash, card and traveller’s cheques. Never carry a lot of cash as you can always get more out at a cash point or exchange money in all the major banks and hotels and large towns.
• Most credit cards are accepted in India.
• Your money will be spent covering your ground costs e.g. food and accommodation. Any money left over will be put back into Greenforce Projects.

Country facts

• Population/Area – 1.3 Billion / 3.2 Million Square Kilometres.
• India is home to several hundred languages, of which 17 are official with Hindi and English being most widely spoken.
• India is the largest democracy in the world.
• ‘Hello’ in Hindi is Namaste

Eligibility

• The trip is open to all nationalities.
• The minimum age for this trip is 17; there is no maximum. Expedition teams consist of individuals from a diverse range of ages, backgrounds, and experiences. Everyone is welcome!

What's included?

• A Meet Your Team briefing day and BBQ in central London.
• Being met at the airport by a Greenforce staff member then dropped off to your hotel.
• Comprehensive orientation period, including guest speakers and presentations by trained professionals, covering India’s culture, history, and language.
• Transfers to project area and overnight journeys (not inc. daily transport to project location).
• All accommodation and meals.
• Assistance in setting up local support for the volunteers’ activities in coordination with the local NGOs.
• On site assistance and all materials for the activities.
• Cultural Workshops during your on a variety of subjects like Indian dressing, Yoga, Indian cooking, Henna painting and Bollywood dance.

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in selected location
Day 2 Transfer to project area.
Day 3 Arrival at project and orientation
Day 4 Project work starts
Day 5-Day 26 Project work continues on weekdays. Weekends are free for leisure or travel options.
Day 27 Conclusion of project and completion of project reports.
Day 28 Arrival in departure location and end of program.

Maps

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