Volunteering Programs by Volunteer Programs Bali

I'm writing this review from my home in Washington, D.C., and with every word I write my desire to return to Bali grows. I am eighteen years old and currently taking a gap year. The concept of traveling by yourself at such a young age is foreign and unheard of in America, however I had a thirst for new experiences and knowledge that only travel could quench. Considering how young I am, it was important to me that I not only find a volunteer program that I felt actually made a difference, but also a program in which I would feel safe and supported. I considered many different programs taking place in Bali, and I had already signed up with one when I finally came across VP Bali. I was instantly attracted to the non-profit program, and fell in love, applying to VP Bali and changing my flight to Bali a week before I was meant to go. I volunteered for eight weeks at Program Ubud, and for one month at Program by the Sea, and visited Program WG. It was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I am a nanny at home, and children are my passion. The students crave knowledge and laughter, and give back as much, if not more, as the teachers. The culture is rich and mesmerizing, and more than once you may find yourself caught up in the spiritual magic that seems to envelope the island. The people are perhaps the best part- the locals are always smiling and willing to help and talk, and you create bonds with the fellow volunteers that can only be born out of sharing amazing experiences...like volunteering with VP Bali. I have no regrets about joining this program, and neither would future volunteers. During my time there I felt only happiness, with tidak apa apa (no worries).

During my stay as a volunteer I worked for the disabled children. It was a pleasure to help these children. It did me good to see how happy these children are as they can learn new things, like counting in Dutch, recognize colors or mention the weekdays in English. I have also talked with the parents during parents-teacher conference about hygiene and better physiotherapy support. Improvements will be implemented. The gratitude of parents and children is overwhelming. Will you do something for disabled children than I can highly recommend you to volunteer. If possible I will be back next year!

I found my overall experience really good. - Novia was a pleasure to work with along with Kimberley and Jose. The kids were absolutely beautiful and teaching them english and about western life was amazing. The home stay could be improved, small things such as bathroom, bedding, fan, storage and insects and bugs.

Usually they aren't a problem for many people but when it becomes annoying and ruins your stay / sleep it can get frustrating and very annoying.

I very much enjoyed the classes. I feel like I made a good connection with the kids and found great ways to connect and keep them interested through learning games. The curriculum was a great way to know what you should be teaching.

The first week Wayan was on time when picking us up, but failed to arrive on time the second week. I didn't mind as much as some of the others but it was a little inconvenient for girls who needed to go to the toilet or had made dinner plans.

-ik vind de templates niet handig, het is onoverzichtelijk en een heel werk. Zelf had ik er weinig aan de templates van vorige leraars te lezen. Misschien zou een beknoptere samenvatting van de leerstof/activiteit handiger zijn.
-het project is fantastisch, niets op aan te merken
-organisatie vond ik super, ik wist dat als er problemen waren ik altijd kon bellen en er een luisterend oor zou zijn

The homestay for Program Ubud with VP Bali is right in the middle of central Ubud, so during the mornings I was able to go to the Yoga Barn and go to the market etc. the food is so cheap in Ubud, a favorite is Dewa Warung on Jl. Goutama! Teaching was for 1:30 for each class with 2 classes a day. The kids at the school are amazing, they are so motivated to learn from you but I learned so much from them too! As extra English practice I had them talk about their lives and culture which was such an amazing insight into Balinese life! The weekend is 3 days long which is ample time to travel to any part of Bali, for example, I had 3 weekends and made it to Kuta, Mt Batur, the Gilis and Nusa Lembongan. Everyone in the program is so kind and amiable, they will help with any problems if you have any, I never did! Definitely recommend to anyone who wants to help people and also see a lot of Bali. I only wish I could've stayed longer, 2 months would have been perfect! At the end, the kids became so attached that there were tears which makes me want to return to the program ASAP! I will miss VP Bali and my group of volunteers so much!

I had a very good time teaching. In the beginning it was sometimes difficult to invent exercises, but over time and with some help it became a lot less difficult and even interesting.
I loved the energy you get from the children and the appreciation they have for what you do.
Furthermore I loved having the long weekend to travel. Its also nice living in Ubud, and all the freedom that it gives you.
Overall I had a very good time!

I joined VP Bali’s programme in Ubud for 4 weeks in June/July. It was my very first time in Bali and my first time ever in Asia as well. I came with no previous teaching experience and no knowledge of working with children. I simply didn’t know what to expect, but quickly I discovered and experienced more than I could have ever dreamed of.

Joining the programme in Ubud you will be accommodated in a local homestay in the very center of Ubud. The location is excellent – on a very central but yet quiet street where you will find some of the best places to eat and the cutest art shops in town. Living in a homestay is truly the best way to discover typical Bali life as for these four weeks I became a part of the family – observing their daily routines, the preparations for the ceremonies and I was even lucky to attend the weeding of the owner’s sun! Of course the family is more than hospitable and friendly, making you feel truly at home.

After my very first lessons I was enchanted by the smiles of Bali children. It is impressive to see the eagerness and the motivation in their eyes to soak up every new word, phrase or expression. You will be placed with another volunteer which makes teaching easier and much more fun of course. There is a teaching curriculum for every class and a constant support of a local teacher. It is a good if you have planned your lesson ahead, but you should be aware that you will rarely follow it as you need to adapt to the kids’ level, their previous knowledge, the speed of learning and so on. Most importantly you should have fun. Enjoy what you do and the kids will easily join you! Teaching for these four weeks has been an amazing experience. The children are so bright, smart, motivated and full of positive energy that they made saying ‘bye’on my last day one of the hardest things I have ever done.

Classes take place in the afternoon Monday to Thursday. This gives you a lot of free time to explore the abundance of activities Ubud offers. Walking around the rice fields, cycling around the near villages, doing yoga, cooking classes, art classes or just wandering around Ubud’s streets looking for one more hidden warung are some of the things you may do. You also would have plenty of time to travel to other places of the island and enjoy Bali’s beaches, volcanoes, lakes and sacred temples or visit the nearby islands too.

Kimberly and Jose, the people behind the programme, will help you adapt to the new environment quickly from your very first day. They are always there should you have any problem or if you need advice or anything. They are always around during classes, we have farewell dinner whenever a volunteer is leaving and they will make everything to make you feel like at home.

My time at VP Bali Ubud programme was truly an amazing and unforgettable experience. I enjoyed every minute and would love to come back again one day.