Empowerment of Women and Children in Kenya

  Kenya

• Other Cities in Kenya: 
Rural

Term: Throughout the year 
Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months
Typical Duration of Program: 3-6 months

Description: The East African Center for the Empowerment of Women and Children (EAC) is an NGO located in the rural coastal village of Takaungu. The EAC helps communities achieve empowerment by increasing literacy for women and children, improving health status, and eradicating poverty.

The EAC operates several development programs, all of which are community-driven, low-tech and sustainable. Programs include comprehensive education initiatives, skill-building income-generating activities, community heath initiatives, and a Junior School for local children. More specifically, volunteers have the opportunity to work in any of the EAC's eight distinct programs:

* Vutakaka Junior School
* Vutakaka Maternal and reproductive, immunization, nutrion and general health Clinic
* Community Health Worker Program
* Vutakaka Sewing Club and entrepreneurship (instructional class and manufacturing group)
* Adult Education                     
* Health Education
* Business Education
        
Those interested in working with the EAC may come as a volunteer, or as an intern or independent study student for university credit. The program suits teachers, medical ( nurses and doctors) professional or students, business professional or students and general volunteers with no specific skills but a desire to reach out to those in need.

Highlights:
- Affordable, enriching and fun programs.
- Safe and welcoming communities

The project is located in Takaungu village. The village of Takaungu is a warm and welcoming traditional community located on the coast. Its red dirt roads lined with palm trees, white sandy beaches, and idyllic society make it the ideal place to get a taste of the African experience.

The village is a short journey from Mombasa, a bustling port city alive with Swahili, Kenyan and Indian culture. Takaungu has all of the charm of a rural village, while still being within reach of many of the exciting aspects of Kenya's incredible environmental and cultural tourist destinations. Takaungu is one hour drive from Mombasa city.

Attractions and Activities

The local beach is called "Kitangani." It's a postcard and located less than 1 mile from Takaungu village. Kivukoni is the local name for what might otherwise be called the "Takaungu Creek." In actuality it's a salt-water inlet with no connection to any fresh water source. When the water "is full" (high tide), it's the best place to swim, next to mangroves and sometimes you can see monkeys in the trees.

For internet use or banking facilities, Kilifi town is just 25 minutes drive or 1 hour walk from Takaungu. Here there are restaurants serving pizza, coffee and local foods.

In addition to weekends, volunteers are welcome to take 5 (more for six months stay) travel/vacation days off during their stay.

Other destinations you may be interested in include Mombasa - many sites to see in this old and historic coastal city including old town, fort Jesus, Hindu temple and local fabric shops. There are also plenty of banks, cyber cafes, restaurants and pubs. Lamu - magical island at the northern end of the Kenyan coast; Lamu seems to be the richest Kenyan preserve of Swahili culture. Malindi, Watamu and South Coast Mombasa are great locations for snorkeling and relaxing on pristine beaches. Tsavo (The theatre of the wild) and Amboseli National Parks - both great places to go on safari to see lions, zebras, elephants and other animals that make East Africa famous for it's wildlife.

Qualifications:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have no major health problems
- Have no criminal record
- Self motivation, patience, open minded and respect of local culture, traditions and dress code.

Cost in US$: USD 920 per month (USD 600-2weeks)

Credit Available: yes

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Our volunteers are typically young adults or experienced professionals (though all are welcome and seniors are encouraged to apply) and are interested in gaining international experience in one of our many program areas. Many of our volunteers are interested in a career in international development, education or health.

Age Range: 18+

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families and Individuals

Participants Travel to Kenya Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Come Kuona's Mission Statement: Supporting the work of grassroots development organizations engaged in finding sustainable solutions to poverty, illiteracy, diseases and promoting a learning exchange between volunteers/interns and the communities they serve. We believe a better world is possible!

Year Founded: 2002