Below are the most frequently asked questions and answers about Hope and Service to Mankind Foundation. If you do not find an answer to your question, please feel free to email or call us. We would be happy to discuss the details of our volunteer programmes.

 

What is the general security in the countries?

We choose our locations based on the stability of the government, low crime rates, security and the integrity of the hosting community. We have a local Project Coordinator on-site in each city for assistance. By taking basic precautions and knowing basic "street smarts" you should not have any problems traveling abroad.

Ghana is the number one destination and gateway to Africa today. 

 

Why choose Hope and Service to Mankind Foundation?

Hope and Service to Mankind Foundation offers customized program placements and provides one-on-one personalized experiences. We cater to the individual looking for a unique Volunteer Travel experience. Knowing that people often have a limited time frame, we offer both short and long term placements ranging from 3 weeks to 1 year and more. We know that people like choices. For our programs you get to choose where you go, when and for how long. We do not have fixed start dates; however, we recommend you arrive in-country on a Saturday or Sunday if possible.

We provide you with a complete cross cultural exposure you will never forget while making an impact serving others.

 

Why volunteer abroad?

Volunteering, while traveling abroad, opens the door to many new and exhilarating possibilities. Volunteering creates a feeling of personal satisfaction. It grants you a privilege not afforded to the typical Tourist: a unique opportunity to experience local everyday life while making a positive impact. Volunteering Abroad Immerses you in a new Culture which improves your Language skills, gives insight of a culture from the inside out and hopefully broadens your view of the World.

 

Is volunteering abroad for me?

Only you can answer this question. Volunteering in another country can be both challenging and rewarding. Our programs are not Summer Camps only. You will not have every minute of every work day planned for you. You must be an inventive, self-starter who can handle situations where schedules are occasionally non-existent and resources are scarce. Flexibility and patience are the keys to having a satisfying experience. Developing countries, in particular are not as obsessed with time as the USA or Europe. Often schedules are ignored or appointments begin later than arranged. NGOs, International Non-profits and Volunteer Organizations are almost always understaffed. If you are willing and able to accept this, Volunteering Abroad can lead to an unlimited feeling of personal satisfaction.

 

How is my programme contribution being used?

Our program donations are dispersed to all projects, including monetary grants and material supply donations made throughout the fiscal year.

Overseas Management, office/internet/mobile expenses, Community Physical Project, host family compensation, meals, transportation expenses, orientation costs, Language and Immersion cost, 1st night hotel accommodations when applicable, and program donations.

 

Recruitment / Marketing 10%

Program Research / Project Assessments 10%

Administrative / Office / hosting 15%

Community physical projects 65%

 

What is the average length of a project?

We offer short term programs ranging from 3 weeks, as long term placements up to 1 year and more. Most volunteers commit to a 3 week program allowing enough time to acclimate to their new surroundings as well as complete orientation and still feel as though they made a contribution to the program.

 

Do I need a passport and visa?

Yes, you need a passport, with an expiration that is no less than 6 months from the time of travel. Visa requirements are based on the length of time and nationality of the volunteer. Please check the local embassy within your home country about specific requirements.

Please do contact us for any support.

 

Is there an application deadline?

Most people will sign up 3-6 months prior to traveling. You should apply no later than 30 days before your intended start date. Some exceptions can be made for last minute traveling, please contact us for more details.

 

Do I need immunizations?

Yes will need a yellow fever vaccination. We urge participants to consult a travel doctor at least two months before your departure/arriving in the host country, to discuss any necessary immunizations and for advice on staying healthy while traveling.

You can find more information from www.who.int.

 

Do I have to book my plane tickets myself?

Yes, you do. We aim to be as flexible as possible and allow our volunteers to pick their travel dates, carrier and times of departure.

 

Is travel insurance included in the programme?

Hope and Service to Mankind does not provide insurance for the simple reason that we think our participants should be able to decide on the nature of your coverage.

Some insurance are very inexpensive. We recommend STA International Travel insurance and Allianz insurance.

 

Is it possible to combine countries, cities or programmes?

Yes, you can combine the countries and programmes. If you would like a multiple-city placement, there is an extra 200 euro administrative fee to cover the cost of your orientation, airport transfers and transportation costs. Please specify your plans on the application.

 

Can I volunteer with my sister/friend/husband/boyfriend?

Yes! We can arrange for you to live and work together in the same project, host family and placement.  We have group volunteering packages as well.  Please contact us for more details.

 

What qualifications or skills do I need?

There are no qualifications necessary except for medical programmes and few others. These programs are available for medical professionals or medical/nursing students. There is no TEFL or teaching qualifications needed for our teaching programmes.

 

Do I need to bring my own supplies from home, or are they provided?

Most schools, clinics and orphanages which you will be placed in are very under resource. Supplies from home that would be of benefit to you should be taken with you. Or, as most volunteers do, buy supplies locally once they arrive in-country. Medical volunteers should bring their own lab coats and rubber gloves. You can also bring gifts such as books, pencils, candies for your new friends.

 

Do I need to know the local language?

This varies depending on the country and program. All our programmes are conducted in English. For those less than proficient in English we offer a Language and Cultural Immersion programmes to support you.

*If you do not know, or need help in deciding your level of English Language contact our office for assistance.

 

How are volunteers selected?

When you submit the online application, we ask for a copy of your resume/CV as well as a personal reference. We review the details you sent to us, we speak to your contact reference and follow up with a phone interview with you to determine you are suitable for a placement.

 

What if I have more questions?

If you have any questions or would like to discuss our programs in more detail, please don't hesitate to contact us by emailing if you have any questions or would like to discuss our programs in more detail, please don't hesitate to contact us by emailing at info@servicetomankindfoundation.org or call our international representative on +36 20 951 6687 or +233 24 447 6072

 

How can I pay my programme fees?

• We accept Money Order, Western Union, Paypal or call us for our Bank account details.  50% refund is based upon provision of evidence of visa refusal by embassies.

• We accept Personal or wire transfer.

• For International payment we only accept bank wire transfer.

• Volunteers are responsible for the 30-35 euro wire transfer fee.

• Your invoice will tell you how to proceed with the payments.

 

What is the deadline for submitting my Form?

Most people will sign up 3-9 months prior to traveling. You should apply no later than 45 days before your intended start date; if you are on the deadline you should summit all the paperwork and the full payment the same day. Some exceptions can be made for last minute traveling, please contact us for more details

 

How many hours and days do I’ working each week?

You are required to fulfill a 42 hour work a week. Sightseeing and side trips are strictly limited to weekends. Work schedule is pre-determined by Service to Mankind and you cannot make changes to this schedule. Request for days off, or time away from the programme are based on the sole discretion of the Project Coordinator

 

Language/ Cultural Immersion?

When you are doing the Cultural Immersion Program, it’s your responsibility to call and inform the coordinator if you are sick and that you can’t assist to the lesson, if you don’t do so, you will lose that class with no option to recover that day. If you call in advance 12hrs you can reschedule your lesson

 

Accommodation in Country

Hope and Service to Mankind arranges for a Host Family to provide living accommodations and meals for you during the project period. In terms of accommodations and meals, we guarantees safe, clean accommodations based on local standards (not always your standards). Volunteers are not permitted to stay longer than their pre-determined Project Period. In-country extensions of programs are to be made on 7 days earlier.

 

Who are your partners abroad?

Our local partners are communities, private institutions and community organizations dedicated to the improvement of their communities. They are leaders in the community and social activists knowledgeable in the needs of their society and offer insight and guidance to our volunteers. They believe in the benefit of international assistance and value our volunteer's time, skills and knowledge

 

Will I be met at the airport?

Yes.  The Country Coordinator and staff will pick you up from the airport if you timely inform us of your flight schedule, in writing, at least four weeks in advance of your arrival in the Host Country. Unfortunately, travel delays in developing countries are a common occurrence. If, due to unforeseen circumstances, you are delayed or miss a flight, it is your responsibility to contact the Country Coordinator or our office. You will also be provided an emergency telephone number to reach our office to report any delays.

 

Will I be on my own or will I be with other volunteers?

No. Our programs are customized and individual based. This being said, you will never be isolated. Our organization receives volunteers year round, so you will have the chance to meet other volunteers. You also have the support of the Project Coordinator, the local members of our organization and the host community.

 

Will I have free time to travel when I'm there?

Yes, most programs are based Monday-Friday, with weekends free. Volunteers often take this opportunity to arrange weekend getaways to places of interest but in groups. Most volunteers travel extensively after the end of their placements, our Project Coordinators can give suggestions and tips for trips.

 

What is the typical work schedule?

For volunteers working in schools it is more or less the same working hours as you would find in Western countries. Hours for orphanages will be more flexible. Volunteers should expect to work 6-8 hours per day (5 days a week).

 

Volunteers who feel their experience, skills and interest do not fall under any of the above programmes could conveniently provide general office support.  Any of the following skills are valuable Computer Knowledge, Website Familiarity, Writing Skills, Research Techniques and Proposal Writing.

 

We welcome volunteers who have interest or experience in project management, administration, public health, nutrition, nursing, agriculture, community development, cooperative development to also apply.

 

Is there any training involved?

We provide in-country orientation on arrival to help familiarize you with the city where you will be living. You will be shown how to use public transportation, where to exchange money, local restaurants and a general sightseeing tour of the city you will live in. Prior to your departure from your hometown, we will send you information on the project, health advice, what to pack, currency and visa etc.

 

Is there any staff in-country when I am traveling?

Yes, we have a local Project Coordinator in all of our host communities. The Project Coordinator is responsible for the airport transfers, placement orientation, and introduction to the local accommodations or home stay arrangements. Our Project Coordinators are natives of our host countries.  Our Coordinators are professionals, fully trained and enthusiastic about sharing knowledge and love of their country.

 

What are the local accommodations provided?

The majority of our volunteers live with a local host family. These families have a working relationship with us and are deemed suitable by our Project Coordinators based on sanitation, security and comfort. In some locations, a local guesthouse or shared volunteer accommodations are provided. Although you should not expect western standards, the accommodation are good by local standards, clean and secure. Although we cannot guarantee to meet all requests, we will let you know if there are accommodation options for your specific program location.

 

Most volunteers do not experience any major medical problems. The most common complaint is an upset stomach as one's body is introduced to new foods.

Please take sensible precautions and follow the guidelines we suggest on healthy traveling (such as using bottled water and avoid eating uncooked food) you should not have any major issues.

There are several medical facilities in all the places we work. However, if you do have any serious medical complaints you are advised to contact our Project Coordinators for immediate hands-on assistance.

 

Can I stay for longer than 4 weeks?

Yes, we can arrange long term placements. Please contact us for more details.