Volunteering in India
In just a few weeks, I will be embarking on what is possibly the greatest personal adventure yet…a solo trip to India. This trip is unlike any I’ve ever done before. It isn’t for the beautiful scenery. It isn’t for a leisurely, relaxing vacation. It isn’t for myself at all – but I expect it will change me completely, in ways that I can’t predict.
I’ve never experienced first-hand the kind of poverty that I expect to see in India. I’ve never been denied my basic, human rights as a woman. I know that this experience will be eye-opening and transformative, and I can only hope to make a difference in some small way.
Beyond that, I can’t wait to discover the beauty of India. The vibrant colors. The delicious, spicy food. A unique, complex culture. There is no better way to learn, grow, and shed all preconceptions than by throwing yourself right into the mix of every day life in India.
Bangalore
I will be based out of the southern city of Bangalore, or Bengaluru. Bangalore is the 3rd most populous city in India with over 8 million people. This major metropolis is known as both the “Silicon Valley of India” and “Garden City,” a hub of information technology, education, and research institutions set amidst a city of beautiful greenery, parks, and mild weather. Despite this, Bangalore still faces many of the difficult issues prevalent throughout India. Poverty, abuse, and women’s rights continue to be real issues that the community face every day.
Sunday Market (Source)
Leave UR Mark
Leave UR Mark (LUM) is an organization that connects volunteers, interns, and travelers from around the world with local initiatives in India that aim to promote positive community growth. LUM is not a travel agency. Their goal is to match volunteers with community organizations, non-profits, and NGOs to develop a mutually beneficial relationship of knowledge-sharing and experience. LUM offers their volunteers an inside look into the local culture, including traditional foods and dress, religion, and values. Personally, I cannot wait to eat the local thali dish and learn how to wrap a traditional Indian saree!
“I will find new meaning in every joy and sorrow” (Source)
Education Volunteer
I will be volunteering with a non-profit community development project, working with young children who have been abandoned or orphaned at a young age. India has the largest population of street children in the world, estimated to be around 18 million. These children do not have a family or a home, and often go without the most basic needs like water, food, and shelter. Many of these children are either abandoned or run-aways, most commonly to escape a life of sexual assault and physical abuse. These organizations provide shelter, care, and education for these children and seek to empower women who have been victims of inequality and abuse.
(Source)
Volunteer in India
LUM connects volunteers with local organizations in India that focus on everything from environmental conservation to yoga programs. If you are interested in learning more about volunteering or interning in India, visit www.leaveurmark.com.
The great think about volunteering in India is that you will learn new things in each step of volunteering, you…