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OBJECTIVES:
The international volunteer programs of JAC are intended to provide opportunities
for visiting friends from abroad to see India and learn about its people
and their concerns while traveling. They help enrich the outlook of those
whom they meet and in turn develop a better understanding of these new friends.
This way each one is an ambassador of peace and international understanding.
During the last decade nearly two thousand volunteers have visited India
this way, from North America, Europe, Australia, Japan and other parts of
Asia.
PLANNING YOUR PROGRAM:
Programs run all year around in different parts of the country. An individual
schedule is devised for each person or group to meet their needs. Arrangements
need to be made at least 30 days in advance of arrival in India in order
to plan properly. There is a minimum one-month's commitment with JAC programs.
If possible, a commitment of at least three months duration will make for
a more complete and satisfying experience and are required for long term
placements.
LONG
TERM PLACEMENTS:
These entail a more in-depth involvement in the work of the sponsoring
organizations. While this work may be similar to that of the shorter-term
camps, the focus may be more specialized. Volunteers can get involved with
editing and publishing or the organization of projects. People with medical
backgrounds can be placed at medical centers. Those wishing to work with
children can stay at a school or home for children and teach English. They
should be prepared to learn some basic Hindi language, preferably before
they leave for India.
SHORT
TERM PROJECTS:
Participation in work camps in Indian villages: These programs involve work with villagers on such activities as sanitation projects, building construction, agricultural work and environmental improvement programs, literacy and women's welfare, health projects including use of local herbal medicine, environmental awareness campaigns etc. These programs are with non-governmental organizations devoted to the welfare of Indian villagers. (Programs are one to four weeks long). Other activities for short-term projects include the following: Helping in the administrative office in New Delhi doing office work and helping other local programs. Preparing and attending conferences on development, disasters and environmental issues. Taking part in environmentally oriented treks in the Himalayan area. Participation in Yoga, meditation and natural health care training programs.
GROUPS:
Special programs for groups of volunteers can be put together with sufficient
advance notice. This is particularly useful for college or university student
groups for whom academic assistants can be provided in India.
ORIENTATION:
It is necessary that the volunteers participate in an orientation program upon their arrival in New Delhi. This way, they will have an opportunity to become acquainted with safe, low cost ways of living and getting around within India, while being introduced to the Indian culture. From time to time, JAC offers orientation programs in Northern California providing useful and practical information and helpful hints from experienced travelers.
ACCOMMODATION:
While in New Delhi, volunteers may stay at a local project dormitory. Volunteers help in maintaining the facility. Accommodation in work camps is either in homes or schools or other public buildings. It is necessary to bring your own bedding. This should include a sleeping bag and a sleeping pad. Simple and fresh vegetarian food is provided on all our programs. Smoking, use of drugs and alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. Violators will be asked to discontinue participation.
COSTS:
Participation costs are very minimal. Please understand that some of the
fees are not refundable. Please discuss thoroughly with the Director before
you sign up for long term placements and understand the implications of leaving
a program before completing your period of commitment.
Registration Fee $ 50.00
Work camp Programs $300.00*
(Includes one Month' contribution for Room, board and administration costs, pick up at the New Delhi international airport and Orientation in India.)
Long-term programs $600.00*
Monthly fees for Extended stay $150.00*
(Includes 3 Month's contribution for Room, board and administration costs and pick up at the New Delhi international airport and Orientation in India.)
All fees have to be made to JOINT ASSISTANCE CENTRE, INC. at least 30 days before the departure date. The initial registration fee and first month's contribution are non-refundable. Other fees are 90% refundable with 30 days notice (50% with seven days notice).
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS: can now be made
through Bargain World Travel. BWT can find the best air flight prices and
arrange for other travel needs. Travel costs, outside eating and hotel stays
are to be borne by the volunteers themselves. Contact
bworldtravel@earthlink.net for
all your travel needs.
MEDICAL INSURANCE:
Adequate health services are available at most places in India. However,
individual medical insurance coverage should be obtained before leaving for
India.
To receive more information on Short term volunteer programs
and an application form send a self addressed stamped ($0.60 ) envelope to:
Joint Assistance Centre,
Inc.
Post Box 6082 San Pablo CA 94806-0082
(USA)
Tel: (510) 464-1100 Fax: 510-217-6671
Email: jacusa@juno.com
If you live outside United States enclose three International Reply Coupons available from your Post office
Click
here for NIFC Volunteer Programs in Nepal
Click
here for NFESC Volunteer programs in Nepal
Click here for BWCA Volunteer programs
in Bangladesh
Click here to look into Friends of Tibet programs in Dharamsala in India
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