Thank you for your interest in helping the children of Mazabuka Orphanage in a volunteer capacity.  Unfortunately at present we have limited accommodation to house volunteers at the orphanage, however, we hope to have this situation solved in 2011. 

For those serious about wanting to come and help please check out our list of preparations below. Visas and immunisations etc. can take months to organise so plan early and let us know if you are interested so we can work with you to get prepared for a visit. We look forward to hearing from you.

If after having read the following and would like to apply to become a volunteer with us please fill out this Application Form to get the ball rolling.

VOLUNTEERING IS NOT VOLUNTEERING WHEN YOU HAVE TO PAY.

All volunteers are responsible for the cost of their travel to and from Mazabuka Orphanage.  We can provide pick-ups to and from Lusaka International airport (3 to 4  hour drive) for $100.00 US each way.

 At OK we value your input therefore we have NO fees for stay with us, however, we would certainly appreciate any donation toward  food expences. 

Time period at orphanage

We recomend you stay at least one week, but not exceeding two months unless otherwise arranged.

Your Role in the Program 

Volunteers do not necessarily need care giving experience.  All we ask is that you come with energy, enthusiasm, an open mind and an open heart.  With little resources at the orphanage it would be appreciated if the volunteers  bring educational resources, art supplies or tapes with children's songs.

 Volunteers help in developing creative programs such as art, music, dance, games,  dressing, helping with their homework.  Additional help on day trips, sanitation, cooking, administration , gardening, building, or helping in one of our community projects may be needed. One of the most wonderful opportunities that volunteering with OK can give  is the chance to share your love.  Please note that your itineraries may differ from this, depending on your own experience and the number of other volunteers. This is simply a guide

 Skills and Educational Requirements

There is no educational requirement for your stay.  Anyone with a heart to serve is welcome at the orphanage, however, proficiency in English is required.  People should be patient, committed and willing to learn.

Conditions of stay are:

1. There will be no smoking or drinking of any kind of alcohol at the orphanage or on any Oz Kids property.
2. No elicit drugs of any kind will be tolerated.
3. Volunteers are asked to be back at a reasonable hour each night.
4. No bad language or behaviour acceptable.
5. Volunteers wishing to leave the orphanage for a period of time (days) must let staff know.

Immunizations

Immunization is entirely up to the individual.  Most doctors will recommend Malaria, Yellow Fever and a few other things but you would be best to contact your own GP.

Extra Baggage (to bring supplies over for children)

Sometimes volunteers can get permission to take extra luggage by contacting the airline that you have booked with.  All you have to do is phone the airline and say that you are going to the Orphanage to do volunteer work and that you need extra luggage to donate children's clothing, etc and then get written permission from them (not all airlines co-operate).  Make sure you keep it with your passport and airline ticket so you have proof of permission.

What should I bring?

 Credit and bank cards are best to withdraw money from ATM's in the area.  Do not bring travellers cheques as you may not be able to cash them. You will need to bring  a small amount in US dollars for when you first arrive $50.00 + for Visas, if you have not aquired one prior to entering  Zambia, we also recomend $100 (in small notes) just in case the ATM's are not working.  Depending on your extra travel plans, extra cash in US dollars is recomended for various fees and visas.

Personal toiletries

You can buy items here but not all brands are available.  

Clothing

A wide range of cheap clothing and footware are available in Mazabuka markets and stores. 

Men - Jeans/Cargo pants, three quarter pants... that kind of stuff. Long sleeve shirts for at night to help protect against mosquitos.

Ladies – ( short skirts are not acceptable in this culture) Women are asked to wear modest skirts, long dresses or  pants.  Tops are fine as long as they are not low cut and or revealing. Short tops that expose your midriff are not acceptable. We also recommend you bring two casual/dressy outfits  to wear into town or to church if you wish to join us.

 You do NOT need to bring mosquito nets, towels or bedding. All will be supplied.

 Submissions

Please note that you will be required to submit at least two character reference from someone who has know you for a period of no less than 12 months (eg. Employer, School Principal, religious minister, etc - excluding any family members).

We also ask that you send us your current Resume/CV.

We require a photocopy of your passport and drivers-licence  before we can approve your stay at the home.

Once you have these items please post them to PO Box 328 Belgian Gardens, Townsville, Australia, 4810 or email them to ozkidsinternational@yahoo.com.au

If already traveling in Zambia or Southern Africa contact  Kaoma,   kaomakash@yahoo.com  or phone....0977780358.  Zambia Int. code  is 260.       

We look forward to receiving your Application Form along with the Submissions mentioned above. 

We look forward to hearing from you.