Camvol promotes volunteering which is not just about traveling abroad and experiencing a different culture, but also provides work opportunities with some very well-reputed Indian organisations, which are known both nationally and internationally.

Placements will allow students to work and contribute to the ongoing professional activities and development initiatives of these organisations. Although an eight week period is not a very long time, the exposure you will get through these placements is likely to be very rewarding.

Camvol takes volunteering both on the part of the volunteer and host organisation very seriously. Volunteering and hosting volunteers requires a deep commitment. Both the volunteer and host organisation are giving up their time and therefore need to be sure of what they are doing and why they are doing it.

Guidelines for volunteers

• Prior to going on the placement, get as much information as you can. If you are uncertain about anything, ask questions.
• Respect the effort going into providing information. Read everything thoroughly and keep all information carefully for future reference.
• Respond to all correspondence/emails promptly.
• Respect values and aims of organisation you are placed with.
• Respect the time and effort taken by organisations to host volunteers.
• Know what is expected of you at the organisation and don’t hesitate to ask for clarifications if unsure of anything.
• Be clear about who to approach if there is a problem.
• Be culturally sensitive.
• Volunteering must be your main priority for going to India.

Guidelines for host organisations

• Respect the time and effort provided by the volunteers.
• Be aware that in some cases it may be a volunteer's first trip to the Indian subcontinent.
• Make sure to use the volunteers as productively as possible in the time that they come for. Define clear and meaningful roles for them.
• Monitor the progress of the volunteers.
• Provide regular support for volunteers while they are with your organisation.
• Try and integrate them with others in your organisation.
• Give clear instructions about who they can contact if there is a problem.
• Thank and value volunteers.