Kenya Volunteer Programs from $23/day | Most Affordable & Trusted

I suppose I'll start at the beginning:
I read through the program website and decided it looked like a good fit for me. I was interested in the teaching program, and the description only said schools were closed through December, so I figured I would be ok to apply for 4 weeks starting November 1. I was accepted and happily went straight to the facebook group to seek advice from former volunteers. When I mentioned what program I was doing, an alumni told me she was pretty sure the school term (and thus the teaching program) ended in October, so I sent an email to IVHQ asking why I would have been accepted to start in November if this was the case and clearly stating that I didn't want to be on the Childcare program and wanted to be on Women's Education if not teaching. I was told not to worry, the school term didn't end until November 18 and after that I could definitely be put on the Women's Education project. Excited to be a part of both, I told all my friends and family this was the plan. When I arrived in country, however, I was informed the schools closed in October and sent straight to the childcare program. I would have complained, but I didn't want to lose all the time it would have taken to switch programs and had been placed with only one other volunteer (who was really cool). Because they explained they always put at least two volunteers in each placement at a time, I knew that if I moved, she would have to as well so I didn't want to put that on her.
The orphanage we went to was delightful; the staff and kids were friendly and they cared about making the best life they could for the kids living in the facility. The in-country partner organization had us pay for our lunches while we were volunteering there and had generally poor communication. We were frequently kept late or called on the weekend by the manager asking where we were because they had no idea what hours we were supposed to be there. Additionally, there wasn't really much for us to do at the orphanage. There was already a schedule laid out for cooking and cleaning by the staff and kids, they didn't have any scheduled activities for us to help with, so we spent most days at the orphanage sitting around and casually playing with the kids who didn't have anything better to do. Partially because we had nothing to do there and because he insisted we needed to 'learn something,' the manager of the program used most of the days to take us away from the orphanage on field trips, without the kids, at our own expense. These trips included things like visiting farms or sewage treatment plants, watching him shop at the market, and promoting his book at a local school which was out of session. For the most part, these trips were interesting, but very quickly became expensive and took away from time we should have been spending with the kids.
The accommodations provided were nice upon first impressions, but unfortunately involved a number of security breaches which made them unsafe and at times uncomfortable. We were not allowed bring outdoor shoes inside (I was once scolded by the house manager for putting a pair of flip-flops I had worn beside my suitcase in my bedroom) so we had to leave them outside the front door. One night, another volunteer's new hiking boots were stolen by a neighbour. The program does not provide volunteers with their own keys to the house, not even for a deposit, so if we were going to be home before the house mom, she would leave the keys in the kitchen window within easy reach of anyone outside, giving the neighbours multiple opportunities to enter the house. Finally, and worst of all, the house manager frequently allowed her boyfriend, who I later learned was unapproved by the program and had not completed a record check like everyone else, to be in the house, often overnight, occasionally sleeping in the same room as me and another volunteer. She did not ask us if we were comfortable with the situation at any point. Because the other volunteers seemed so ok with it and it was so frequent, I assumed the boyfriend had already been approved by the program. I didn't complain because I didn't want to seem like a princess compared to the others and was afraid I would be treated poorly by the house manager if I said anything to the program about something the other volunteers were fine with. Hindsight being 20/20, I should have said something the first time I woke up to find a man who was not a volunteer in my room, however there were many steps the program could have taken to prevent this ever happening.
Not surprisingly, I was robbed while staying there, and the program staff were the opposite of supportive. My trip involved 1 month volunteering in Kenya and then I was heading to South Africa, France, and England, so I had a stash of currencies for these countries totaling over $300USD hidden in separate baggies inside a pocket of a purse in the bottom of my suitcase in my bedroom. I noticed as I was packing to leave Kenya that the vast majority of the money (all paper bills worth over $5 USD) had been stolen, and the thief had left the small bills and coins. I knew it had been within the last couple of weeks because I had checked on my stash that much time before. I first told the other two IVHQ volunteers about this and one of them said she had also noticed about $80USD worth of Kenyan shillings gone missing from her stuff, but she had blamed herself for probably misplacing it at the time. I then reported it to the house manager and the staff member listed to 'call in case of emergencies' and neither offered any sympathy or support whatsoever. Both accused me of misplacing the money, even though I proved it hadn't been misplaced by emptying my entire suitcase in front of everyone in the house and explaining that only the paper money was missing, not the coins. The house mom gave me weak excuses as to why it couldn't have been her boyfriend, asked me not to tell the program he had been staying there (and mentioned that he had lost his job two weeks before so was relying on her for money), and later accused me of lying about being robbed. The staff member I reported it to said he would contact the manager of the other volunteer program which had volunteers staying in the same house and the general manager, but he never contacted either of these people on the issue. I was told that if I suspected other volunteers of taking the money, I had to confront them myself, so I was put into the incredibly uncomfortable position of asking my friends if they would be willing to empty their suitcases the same way I had done. All of the other volunteers and the house mom willingly subjected themselves to this, but I was unable to search the boyfriend because he didn't have a bag in the house. I flew to South Africa that same night so I was unable to take any more action in Kenya. When I arrived in South Africa, I contacted the general manager about the situation and it was the first he was hearing of it (because no one had reported it to him) but he promised me they would take action. Weeks later, I emailed again asking for follow-up information on what had been done to investigate the theft or resolve the security breaches, and the only thing they could tell me was that they were 'recruiting a new host family for next year'. In response, I sent a list of steps I believed they could have taken to make their accommodations more secure and offer more support to volunteers, but received no response for this email.
Orientation was short. It wasn't exactly bad, but it wasn't great either. It included them telling us a little bit about our placements, teaching us about the safari company they recommend (which I never got to try because the phone numbers and email they gave us didn't work so I had to go with another company) and then dropping us off at our homestays.
In short, I do not recommend this program as a safe or effective volunteer program. However, dealing with the staff at IVHQ was just fine, the program fees (if you choose the right country) are reasonable, and I do recommend IVHQ as a good way to explore a new country if you have no prior connections in that corner of the world.
Thanks for reading and I hope that if you do choose to volunteer with IVHQ or IVHQ-Kenya, you experience is much better than mine was!

This was my first time leaving the country and I couldn't have asked for a better experience. I spent 6 weeks volunteering in Kenya with the childcare program and it was the best experience I've ever had! The staff was helpful, my host mom was amazing, the volunteers were fun, and the kids were the absolute best! I was expecting to go to Kenya and teach the kids great things, but in reality they were the ones that taught me. They taught me how to truly be happy. All of the kids are always so happy with the simple things in life and there is so much to learn from them.

While volunteering there is plenty of time to work and play. I spent every Monday-Friday with the kids and then on the weekends had plenty of cool places to go visit with other volunteers. It is really the best of both worlds. You get to experience and explore a new country while also having a life changing experience volunteering.

If you want to have a truly life changing experience in a different country I strongly recommend Kenya. Everyday is a new adventure and there is so much to learn from the people you will be surrounded by. Volunteering abroad is expensive, but it was definitely worth every penny. I am definitely planning to go back in the future!

I love kids. I couldn't ask for better students to teach and learn together. Even though we didn't have enough resources at school, the students showed great desire and enthusiasm to learn and participate. I encourage anyone that is planning to volunteer teaching in Kenya to prepare more teaching materials beforehand. Anything that you prepare would be useful. Plus, don't forget to bring a camping lantern too!

Besides education, food and water are major issues that students are facing in Kenya. I started a fundraising page to feed the kids at Bright Star. I hope I will have your support. Please feel free to join me and make a difference together: www.youcaring.com/bright-star-montessori-learning-center-67…

Asante sana!

I really enjoyed this program and I'm very glad that I went! I did the women's education program at Gihon Women's Empowerment Center in Kitengela, Kenya (a 45 minute- 2 hour drive outside Nairobi with traffic). The program and its director, Agnes, were fantastic. Agnes is so appreciative of volunteer help and the center does need it. Some of the time, however, I felt pretty useless. The other volunteer and myself taught a thirty-ish minute lesson each day and the rest of the time the women were usually busy with their sewing teacher learning how to sew. Lessons were on a wide variety of topics from managing finances to safe sex-- most of the women only have a primary school education so they need to learn a lot of more basic things.

I rated the social scene low because there's really nothing to do in Kitengela and it's not safe to go outside at night, especially alone. For the most part, people are friendly but there were definitely some more threatening people on the street (no more so than I would expect from going to Kenya).

The program isn't perfect but I definitely recommend going!! There is SO much need in Kenya and anything we can do to help is so appreciated.

My name is Georgia, I'm 20 years old and Im from England. Im currently a student at Durham University studying Human Geography. Ive just started my final year of my degree and the hot topic of conversation between my friends, family and basically anyone I meet is 'What are you going to do once you graduate?', and my answer to this question was always 'I have no idea'. To be honest with you, its still very daunting and hideously scary to think that soon enough I'm going to be a proper (hopefully) working adult. But after my short time in kenya I realised that my near future doest have to just be a 9-5 office job, running around a hot and sweaty city doing jobs for everyone. I worked with Positive Life Kenya, a small NGO located just outside of Nairobi that work to empower HIV+ women. My daily jobs consisted of home visits to the women, giving support and most importantly finding ways and teaching the women how to become independent financially. We set up an Esty page to sell some of the beautiful jewellery that the women made. We helped maintain the table banking system that supports the women with small loans to help expand their businesses. My experience at this NGO showed me how this type of work really changes lives. Young children were found sponsors so they can leave the slums and get the right support and nutrition. The women found their feet again and could support their families. The vibes of Kenya, the help and security I had from IVHQ and incredible adventures I had, together combine to help give my final answer to that burning question of 'What do I want to do when I graduate?'. My answer is... I want to move to Kenya and work with an NGO that empower women. Okay okay, I havent quite figured out everything yet, but Im working towards finding an internship or placement at an international organisation that will give me the same kind of work experience that IVHQ provided but at a more permanent level. Travelling to new countries, and especially working during your visit, opens your eyes but can also provide real life changing moments.

My three weeks spent in Kenya were amazing. The IVHQ and NVS staff were incredibly supportive, able to answer any questions we had before and during our trip, and even connected us to excursions in our area as all of the affiliated ones were based out of Nairobi. I would highly recommend going to Mombasa to volunteer. Very few volunteers go there (perhaps because of the extra $100 fee), but it is well worth while. Myself and my friend were the only IVHQ volunteers there at the time, but the need for more definitely exists at the schools and various orphanages.

During our time, we were able to spend time with the kids at our placement, but also took on the role of teachers to support the current staff, who are full time local volunteers (receiving no payment for what is the equivalent of a full time job). I would say that this placement (Little Angels Orphanage) is better described as being a teaching placement than childcare, due to the nature of there being a school within the orphanage. With some fundraised money, we purchased school supplies, new uniforms, and a swing set for our orphanage, and sponsored a little girl at our home for two years. Though it is not expected for you to spend your money on donations and sponsorships, your money will likely go a very long way and creates a more long lasting impact for them.

Our weekends were spent doing different fun things. Because we were unable to return to Nairobi (that 10 hour bus ride wasn't going to happen twice) for the IVHQ affiliated safari, one of the NVS staff connected us to a safari to Tsavo East with Grand 5 Safari, which was so amazing. Mombasa placements are also quite close to Diani Beach, a major tourist spot and beautiful place to go relax, have a bite to eat or have a drink, and there is a store nearby to pick up anything you may need. I completely recommend taking at least one venture to Diani, which is about 30 minutes away by a matatu.

Our host family was so warm and welcoming, the food was great, and we had showers and a western toilet (bonus!). Overall, I would completely recommend Kenya, and especially Mombasa, as your volunteer trip. IVHQ and NVS have everything in place for you to have a fun, safe, and valuable time there.

Being a first time traveller and first time volunteer i was very overwhelmed with this trip. But the amazing IVHQ staff eased my anxiety, comforting me and preparing me for a trip of a life time. The first day in half way through orientation everyone already feels like family, especially the IVHQ staff. James, Joe, Cleo and Chomlee accepted this stranger into their family. Joining in on singing and dancing. Now i was ready to embrace what kenya had to offer. Teaching at Blessed Hope Primary school I learned more about myself than i could have imagined. The kids were eager to learn always asking for more. At recess I ran and jumped more than I have in my 21 years of life. They made me feel like a kid again, teaching me their swahili songs and dances.

I have indulged in Kenyas culture, and food (being a picky eater) and loved every bit of it.
Thank you IVHQ for becoming my family, for showing my around Kenya planning trips, teaching me about Kenya's history and culture, Thank you for the experience allowing myself to grow and spread my wings. Thank you to the teachers for accepting me into their school, and thank you to the kids for being who they are, their smiles can light a dark room, can brighten up the world.
Kwaheri, for now.

On the 29th of December 2015 i embarked my journey to Kenya, 18 years of age I decided to challenge myself and travel alone to a foreign country. I arrived in Kenya after a long flight with a short stop over i arrived on the 31st, just in time for the new year celebrations! I was greeted at the airport by Joe, and IVHQ driver who made me feel more than welcome. We arrived safe in Kawagware, were i was greeted by a loving Kenyan family and fellow IVHQ Volunteers.

We had our orientation, were we were informed on the safety and what not to do, after a day of orientation we set out to seperate towns. Placed in Rironi, with the most caring loving host Mum, Winnie, for three weeks i would call this my home. On our first day Winnie walked me to my placement SADAI Childrens home, Where we were greeted by the most excitable loving children. The children’s home reached my exceptions beyond belief, Mumma and Aunty (Head of the Orphanage), were loving and took care of us. We played games, we had several donations for the children, Books, pencils, school equipment, sporting good ect, giving these to the children was the highlight of my experience, to see the happiness ton their faces, and the joy something so little can bring to their lives.
During my experience i became ill, and landed myself in hospital, needless not to say the support of the IVHQ staff was outstanding, getting me to the hospital and visiting me each day.
IVHQ runs programs such as City tours, Safari, these again were amazing, and at a good price considering what we did.

Being a cheaper volunteer program i was a little nervous coming into the experience, but the program reached my expectations and beyond.

overall this was an enjoyable experience that i would do over and over again if i would, not once did i feel unsafe, or uncomfortable. IVHQ exceeded my expectations of any Volunteer program.