Chinmaya Organization for Rural Development Sri Lanka needs volunteers all year round from around the world to share their experiences, skills and knowledge with those in need. The children, youth and women of the affected areas have benefitted immensely from their interactions with volunteers in the past. From teaching english as second language to our sponsored children or at schools, to craft workshops for women, the presence of dedicated and eager volunteers regardless of nationality, religion and age has been warmly welcomed by the ‘locals’.
A volunteering stint in Jaffna and Killinochi is a rich and rewarding experience. From the beautiful smiles of the locals to mouth watering food to gorgeous temples to sandy beaches its also a place where beautiful memories are made. (You can read some volunteer blogs here-
Alexandra Huddleston reflects on her experience volunteering with CORD
Who can volunteer:
Anyone who has the passion and time to volunteer. All nationalities are welcome. Locals speak basic english and your CORD coordinators with help bridge the language gap. If you are of Sri Lankan or India decent and can understand and or speak Tamil it is definitely an added advantage.
Teaching english to children and youth is definitely one of the popular volunteering opportunity but there’s need for a lot more. Sharing your knowledge in Sports, Arts, Music and Crafts with the children is something CORD is actively encouraging their volunteers to do. These activities are also seen as a therapeutic effort that helps them heal from their unaddressed inner wounds from their traumatic experiences during the war.
What else you need to know – IMPORTANT!
While volunteering in Jaffna and Killinochi is a rewarding experience especially if you are from the subcontinent but it has its challenges. The weather is hot and humid and you have to travel in public transport to the schools and CORD offices. Being prepared for the weather and culture is the first step towards making sure your time is well spent. Western conservative attire is totally acceptable. At certain times of the year mosquitos are prevalent in certain areas. Bug spray, Sunscreen, hats and comfortable footwear are highly recommended. Contact your doctor or travel clinic near you for the recommended vaccinations two months before your travel.
Long stays in a foreign land can be lonely especially if you don’t speak Tamil. Jaffna is a vibrant city by day but long years of war has stripped it of all social activities; spending time with family and temple festivals are usually the highlight of their fun time. You are encouraged to come in a group to enrich your experience and avoid loneliness. Groups can also make a bigger impact and make larger projects and camps more feasible.
Volunteering activities:
English teaching through workshops at schools and CORD offices for children and youth.
Creative development programs for Children and youth such as Crafts, Photography, Art, Music and Drama.
Computer training and IT training
Sports and play based activities
1 day or 2 day Language and Creative camps
Training SHG women on entrepreneurship skills
Volunteering opportunities using your funds – pre approval needed
If you would like to make a long term deeper impact during your volunteering time we have some ongoing requirements from the community. These projects are usually beyond the realm of CORD’s reach as we focus on long term sustainable development. However we list below some of the urgent basic needs that are an extension of CORD’s activities that we would like to support
If you would like to fulfill one of these projects during your stay, we can provide you the funding requirements. These projects also require initiative and planning. Definitely recommended for groups of volunteers.
- Environmental initiatives such as shiramadana, green initiatives, organic farms,
Building play structures, cleaning and painting murals at schools.
Hygiene and dental camps, medical camps
Cost of volunteering
We appreciate your desire to volunteer with CORD and thank you for donating your time for our efforts. However we are a grassroots organization and our volunteers are responsible for all their costs during their volunteer assignment. CORD coordinators will arrange and oversea all your needs during your stay. Accommodation in Jaffna will be arranged including food and transportation. Expected cost is $10-15 a day in Jaffna.
Interested?. Welcome!. What to do now?
Please take a moment to fill our Volunteer match form with as much information as you can provide about yourself, skills and knowledge. Most importantly tell us your expectations from the time that you are offering to volunteer with CORD.
Longer stays are encouraged to make sure a positive long term impact is created. However your program will be tailored based on your skills, time and expectation. Group volunteers are highly encouraged.
A CORD staff will be be your focal point to formulate your volunteer plan depending on the date, duration and your skills. They will continue to coordinate and communicate with you during your stay.
