Volunteer Abroad
Each year Tzedek sends a group of enthusiastic volunteers to gain first-hand experience of overseas development in some of the world's poorest communities. These volunteers return to the UK and participate in Tzedek's UK work for a further 10 months.
Applications for Summer 2012 placements in Ghana and India are now open
Click here for the application form
To read about the adventures of last year's volunteers, interns and coordinators, click here
WHO?
Most volunteers who spend time at Tzedek's partner projects are aged between 20-30, with little or no previous experience of working in developing countries. However, Tzedek encourages applications from all ages and walks of life. The minimum age requirement is 19 years old.
WHEN?
The programme begins in early July and runs for two full months. There is the option of staying longer if you would like. On return to the UK, you will be given part time volunteer options to get involved with for the next 10 months for a minimum of 20 hours. You will also need to be free for the orientation weekend before departure in late June (see Volunteer FAQs for more information). If you cannot make these dates, you will not be able to take part in the overseas programme, but please let us know as there are many ways you can make a volunteering contribution to Tzedek UK throughout the year.
WHERE?
Details about the 2012 program will be posted here soon. But in 2011 there were two programmes taking place: one in Tamale, Northern Ghana, and one in West Bengal, India.
WHAT?
Volunteers are placed at host organisations for two months, working with the NGO's local staff, learning about and contributing to ongoing development projects. Work can vary from teaching, to assisting with funding applications, to administrative and office work, as well as opportunities to visit projects in more rural communities.
WHY?
To fulfill the Jewish obligation of tikkun olam (healing the world), providing a clear ohr la'goyim (light unto the nations) about everyone's right to Tzedek (justice). Find out more about how Jewish values underlie Tzedek's volunteering opportunities.
HOW?
Each group of volunteers is given a thorough pre-departure orientation over the course of a weekend in London by former volunteers and experts in international development. Upon arrival they are met by a programme coordinator who will give a local induction and introduce the volunteers to their placements.
How to apply
Many volunteers have found their experiences abroad with Tzedek to be truly life-changing:
"I have gained a real insight into the issues and challenges facing development work that I could never have appreciated without spending time in Jharkland. I feel I have gained a richer, more nuanced understanding at the same time as galvanising my commitment to helping those in poverty around the world." Jamie Munk - India 2010
I learnt about working with people culturally different to myself. I saw the extent and limits of globalisation. I could go on for hours about how it educationally benefited me on a peronsal level. Rachel Shaw - Ghana 2010
"The programme was a real eye-opener and learning experience. I think it is very easy to be desensitized to the reality of poverty-you see the kids of the adverts and it all begins to become quite meaningless. Its not until you meet these children for yourself that you understand the true enormity of the issue and that we can so easily make a noticiable difference."
Cat Mansoor, Overseas Volunteer, 2009
"Three
Dana Gloger, The JC, 2008
"I knew that coming to volunteer in
Sasha Maisel, Overseas Volunteer, 2008
"Volunteering with a local NGO is a wonderful way to see and learn about another country and to be able to do something for other people; to give something back without changing the world, but just leaving a small, positive impression on a few lives".
Emily Colman, Overseas Volunteer, 2007
"I have had an incredible time that I will never forget and encourage others to embark upon a Tzedek programme." Read the full article
Emma Breger, Overseas Volunteer, 2006
"When I returned home in September, I was immediately taken aback by the huge differences between
Joel Clark, Overseas Volunteer, 2005
Tzedek is also linked with American Jewish World Service (AJWS) to offer skilled volunteers the chance to volunteer overseas on longer term placements. If you are interested in volunteering through AJWS, separately to Tzedek's two-month programme, please contact Leah for more information.
| How to apply | |
| Be an Overseas Programme Coordinator Do you have expereince in the developing world? Could you support other volunteers on the ground? | |
| Volunteer FAQs |
