need help/advice about volunteering

french-mimi

Hi everyone!
I am a 32-year old American/French citizen. I am looking into volunteering this summerin India in an orphanage.
I have been writing to and getting into contact with MANY MANY MANY organizations, people, former-volunteers, charities etc...
In my research I have read many volunteer stories and opinions. I am concerned that when one applies and works with some volunteer organization (Indian or international) often times, one may end up paying a lot of money to the wrong people, as they keep most money for themselves and it will usually not benefit those you really want and intend to help. I already am agonizing with the dilemma whether volunteering for such a short time helps out or ends up being a burden on the people I actually want to try to help....
Please do not think that I am trying to go to India on "the cheap side". I am willing to pay whatever is needed for such an experience and program, as long as the money and my time/efforts HELP and GO TO THE PEOPLE WHO NEED THE HELP! Do you know what I mean?
So far, I am leaning towards an NGO called IVTINDIA (in Bangalore) and Global Crossroads (in Delhi). I don't know either of the organizations (except from their websites) or either of the two cities....
So, if you have time I would be VERY APPRECIATIVE if you could help me with any suggestions, advice, past experience/stories...
I am hoping/planning on going to India from June 14th/15th to July 5th/6th. I would like to work in an orphanage, preferably with babies/infants/toddlers. My preference would be a non-religious orphanage that is in an urban setting. Of course I would need room/board in a safe place (as I am a woman who will be traveling alone).
I know that this is all VERY "last minute".... I am already working on my Visa and vaccinations...
I am of course quite in a rush and VERY anxious and excited to get an assignment/placement in India!
All the best- In hopes to hear from you soon! Thanks!

zoltan

There's one that I know of, located near Pondicherry (Tamil Nadu).

It's called The East West Foundation of India TEWFI.

They are primarily dedicated to helping young children (and most recently, tsunami survivors).

I can vouch for their bona-fides and if you are a single woman, they have shared rooms avaialble to sleep in and it's segregated (ie. women only or men only - no mixed rooms).

The cost is US$2 per day for the room and I think you get basic dhal to eat as well.

Their web-site is: The East West Foundation of India/

And it's unfortunate that there are many organisations who use the charity status to fleece tourists and well intentioned donors. Choose carefully.

Cheers
Zoltan

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