Volunteer to lift up children, women and youth in Arusha, Tanzania

It was an insightful experience to learn about Tanzania’s education system and how Lift Them Up Foundation is working to improve the opportunities available to students and youth. We felt very included and empowered to assist in any way we could, thanks to the Foundation’s founders. There were a variety of ways we helped, from the classroom to gardening to the strategic operations of the Foundation. It was inspiring to see the impact of the Foundation and would highly recommend the experience to others.

I've spent 2 weeks with Lift Them Up pre-school, helping them in different administration tasks, in the biological garden and playing with the children. This volunteer experience brought me awareness on how people live in rural Africa, what's their day-to-day life and how much the volunteers work can help everyone involved in the project. The area is very safe, rural and genuine. Lili and Abel, the founders of the Foundation are very supportive and appreciative of everyone's contribution, so I totally recommend to join this volunteer program.

I spent 4 weeks volunteering at Lift Them Up Foundation School, loved every minute and was sad to leave. I was welcomed by Founders Lilian & Abel to their very comfortable accommodation where I was very well looked after with meals, their hospitality to ensure I was comfortable and any questions answered. I was taken around the local area so any items needed were able to be purchased. The area felt very safe and the local people were very friendly and helpful.
During my stay, I began with a 4 day safari covering Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Conservation Reserve, followed by weekends spent visiting several tourists locations to visit animals at Serval Wildlife, Arusha National Park, Chemka Hot pools, a day in Arusha to see Arts, markets and workplace for workers with a disability, horse riding and waterfall walks all organised by Abel's tour business
At the school I felt welcomed by all staff members, and they were happy to discuss and try new ideas that could benefit the class or students. The students and the sewing group were very accepting of new faces assisting at the school, so it was very easy to feel included and part of the school community immediately. I left feeling my time and efforts were appreciated by all involved at Lift them up Foundation and would recommend anyone wanting to volunteer with them to do so.
I was a first time O/S traveller and travelling solo so I felt a little anxious but as Lilian & Abel had everything organised for me in advance I had nothing to worry about. This trip exceeded my expectations and I look forward to returning.

I’m so grateful for being welcomed into
Lilian’s family and community. She made me feel comfortable and went above to involved me in her daily life which is exactly what I wanted when I arrived in Tanzania. I’m so appreciative of being able to meet all of her students and neighbors. I also loved how her family shared their memories, religion and love for each other in their stories. Spending time going around in Arusha and Usa River was lovely. I loved the local bus (matatu) experience as I really was able to experience the daily culture.

The experience was incredible! Living with a local family was a highlight, offering a deep, personal connection to the community. Their warmth and hospitality made me feel truly at home. The school was equally impressive, with a vibrant atmosphere and dedicated staff who made learning engaging and inspiring. Overall, it was a fantastic opportunity to immerse myself in the culture and make meaningful connections. I’m grateful for the chance to have such a rich, rewarding experience. I’m grateful for the chance to have such a rich and rewarding experience.