- [expand title=”Why Pay to Volunteer?”]The fee that you pay goes directly to covering your costs of being in Ghana. This includes your lodging and food, pre-departure preparation, on-site support, a small compensation to your host institution (if applicable) to cover their staff time and other costs of your training, and other behind the scenes services such as safety monitoring.
Rest assured, your money is being well spent to ensure that your experience here is as impactful and memorable as it can be.[/expand]
- [expand title=”Do I have to be a professional to participate?”]No, you don’t. Most projects only require that you are currently pursuing a higher education. Some positions do require specific skills and related experience so check the appropriate volunteer or internship page[/expand]
- [expand title=”Which areas in Ghana do you have volunteering and internship placements?”]Our placements are mostly in the Awutu Senya District (Kasoa, Beraku, Papaase, etc.) in the Central Region of Ghana.[/expand]
- [expand title=”How far is the Awutu Senya District from the capital, Accra?”]The Awutu Senya District is about a 45 minute drive West of Accra.[/expand]
- [expand title=”Can I select a location in Ghana where I want to Volunteer or Intern?”]Yes, as long as we offer placements there.[/expand]
- [expand title=”Can I make a request of an internship position not stated on the website?”]Yes! Cheerful Hearts Foundation has partnerships with many institutions in the Central and Greater Accra regions. Interns can make an internship request anywhere in these areas and we would gladly help find to get a worthwhile placement.[/expand]
- [expand title=”Can I volunteer / intern at anytime of the year?”]Yes, you can intern or volunteer at anytime of the year. However, teaching placements are normally based on the school calendar in Ghana. Please contact us for more information.[/expand]
- [expand title=”What kind of training and orientation is provided?”]Proper training/orientation/preparation needed for each individual and project will be provided by CHF and, if applicable, the institution at which you will be working. On arrival you will normally be given three days of orientation for your placement before starting work. This will introduce you to the culture of the local people, provide details of your placement position, and includes a community familiarization tour, visits to some local chiefs and other local authorities, and other information that may be necessary to help you get acquainted with the community you are serving.[/expand]
- [expand title=”What does a typical day look like?”]A volunteer or intern will start work at 8:00a.m. in their assigned institution. You will either be able to walk to your placement or can easily take a tro-tro (minibus) to get there quickly and cheaply. Work as your schedule provides. Eat lunch around noon at the workplace or a nearby restaurant or street vendor. Return to work until 3.00pm. The number of working hours ranges from 4-6 hours per day; though the schedule is flexible to suit your needs. After working hours, you can plan how to use the remainder of the day. You are always welcome to help with other community projects, including planning health programmes, sports and games with the school children, or just relax and enjoy some free time. At about 6.00pm supper is served, and you will have warm friendship from colleagues at work and town folk to keep you company, show you around and immerse you into Ghanaian culture. Ghanaians are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality. You may also wish to spend your free time with other international volunteers in the area.
Weekends are for your free time. CHF staff members will be more than happy to show you around the local area or visit places such as the beach, the capital city, Cape Coast Castle, Hans Cottage, Kakum National Park, Nzulenzu, .etc. You may also wish to travel independently or with other volunteers to different parts of Ghana or neighboring countries.[/expand] - [expand title=”What shots do I need to take?”]Your health and well-being is very important to us, so be sure to take the necessary precautions before you arrive. A pre-requisite for all visitors to Ghana is the YELLOW FEVER inoculation. The vaccination must be taken at least 10 days before your trip. Other vaccinations are also recommended, such as Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Diphtheria and Polio; your doctor, GP or nurse will give you the necessary information. Remember that some of these vaccinations are free in public/state hospitals, but if you are short on time, then you can also obtain them from your nearest travel clinics. It is essential that you speak with a registered GP/Doctor or nurse on advice about what immunizations are necessary. Prepare in advance of your trip.[/expand]
- [expand title=”Do I need malaria treatment for Ghana?”]Malaria is, unfortunately, present in Ghana, so be sure to bring preventive medication that your health professionals deem necessary. There are three common options for malarial pills, Larium, Doxycycline and Malarone. These vary in price and side effects (although the side effects are not serious) so ask your Doctor/GP for more details. It is advisable for volunteers and interns to bring a suitable supply of malaria drugs to last the duration of their stay. We strongly advise that you purchase enough supply in your home country before you leave. Your room of stay will be protected from mosquitoes, although we advise that you bring mosquito repellent or deet for the evenings. A mosquito net is optional, and can be purchased cheaply upon arrival. You should let us know of any doubt you have concerning health issues and we will help you by providing you with the necessary information.[/expand]