About Us
The Children Therapy & Care Program is a community-based initiative that supports children with special needs and developmental challenges in Arusha, Tanzania. The program serves children aged 0–12 years from diverse social and economic backgrounds, providing them with essential care, learning support, and developmental assistance.
Many of the children we support experience developmental delays or disabilities caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Down syndrome, ADHD, spina bifida, hydrocephalus, muscular disorders, and speech or developmental delays. Our approach focuses on improving each child's independence, communication, mobility, and overall quality of life through structured therapy support and daily care activities.
The program offers a combination of physiotherapy support, occupational therapy activities, speech and communication exercises, and play-based learning designed to stimulate development in a safe, supportive, and child-friendly environment. As resources become available, we also plan to expand our services by introducing additional rehabilitation approaches, including hydrotherapy.
We believe that every child deserves access to quality care, regardless of their family's financial situation. For this reason, we work closely with families to ensure that children continue receiving support even when they are unable to afford the full cost of services. We are also developing long-term sponsorship opportunities for children from vulnerable backgrounds.
Volunteers play an important role in supporting our team by assisting with daily activities, engaging children in educational and recreational activities, and helping create a positive, inclusive, and nurturing environment. We welcome volunteers and trainees from a wide range of backgrounds, particularly those with an interest in childcare, education, therapy support, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, psychology, social work, or special needs education. No professional experience is required; however, a willingness to learn, work collaboratively as part of a team, and respect the knowledge and experience of our local staff is highly valued.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
Our program offers volunteers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children with special needs while gaining valuable hands-on experience in a supportive community setting. You will work alongside dedicated local staff, assisting with therapy-based activities, educational games, and daily care while learning about disability inclusion and child development in Tanzania.
We value cultural exchange, teamwork, and mutual learning, ensuring that volunteers contribute in ethical, responsible, and sustainable ways. Your participation helps children build confidence, develop essential life skills, and thrive in a caring, inclusive environment.
Beyond your volunteer experience, you will have the opportunity to discover Tanzania's rich culture, connect with welcoming local communities, and explore the natural beauty of Arusha. This unique experience combines personal growth, cross-cultural learning, and meaningful social impact, creating lasting memories while making a positive difference in the lives of the children you support.
Requirements
Legal requirements
Volunteer experience
A typical day in the Children Therapy & Care Program is structured yet flexible, depending on the individual needs and energy levels of the children. The day begins in the morning as the children arrive at the centre and are welcomed into a safe, caring, and supportive environment. Volunteers assist the staff in greeting the children, helping them settle in, and preparing for the day's activities.
The morning sessions often include therapy support activities such as guided exercises, mobility assistance, speech and communication practice, and simple developmental tasks. Volunteers may also participate in one-on-one interactions with children who require additional support, always working under the guidance and supervision of local staff and therapy professionals.
Around midday, the focus shifts to play-based learning and recreational activities. Children participate in creative play, music, arts and crafts, storytelling, educational games, and group activities that encourage social interaction. These activities help develop communication skills, confidence, creativity, emotional well-being, and social development. Volunteers are encouraged to actively participate, motivate the children, and create a fun, engaging, and inclusive atmosphere where every child feels supported and valued.
Depending on the day's schedule, volunteers may also assist during meal or snack times, help maintain a clean and organized learning environment, prepare materials for therapy and educational activities, and support staff with administrative or organizational tasks when needed.
The afternoon may include additional therapy sessions, outdoor play, sensory activities, or quiet learning exercises before the children begin returning home. At the end of the day, volunteers help tidy activity areas, discuss the day's progress with the local team, and prepare for the following day's activities.
- Dormitory Accommodation: USD 130 per week
- Private Room (Shared Bathroom): USD 180 per week
- Double Room: USD 210 per week
Volunteers stay in our welcoming accommodation in Arusha, conveniently located close to the project site. We offer three accommodation options: a shared dormitory, a private room with a shared bathroom, and a double room. All rooms are clean, secure, and comfortably furnished with beds, mattresses, mosquito nets, bed linen, and basic storage space.
Shared bathrooms are cleaned regularly, and Wi-Fi is available in the common areas. Volunteers also have access to a shared kitchen, dining area, and comfortable outdoor spaces where they can relax and connect with other international and local volunteers.
Our accommodation provides a safe, friendly, and supportive environment that encourages cultural exchange while ensuring a comfortable stay. Airport pickup can be arranged upon request, and our local team is available throughout the program to provide guidance, assistance, and ongoing support whenever needed.
Volunteers receive three freshly prepared meals each day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—featuring a combination of traditional Tanzanian cuisine and simple international dishes. Vegetarian options are available, and we do our best to accommodate dietary requirements and food allergies when notified in advance.
Safe drinking water, as well as tea and coffee, is available throughout the day. All meals are prepared in a clean and hygienic environment, providing volunteers with nutritious, well-balanced food to support them during their stay.
Sharing meals is also a wonderful opportunity to experience Tanzanian culture, build friendships with fellow volunteers, and connect with our local staff in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
During their free time, volunteers have the opportunity to explore Arusha and its beautiful surroundings while experiencing Tanzania's rich culture and natural beauty. Popular activities include visiting local markets, taking part in cultural tours, exploring scenic waterfalls, joining coffee plantation tours, and visiting traditional Maasai villages. On weekends, volunteers can also take optional trips to nearby attractions such as Arusha National Park, enjoy breathtaking viewpoints of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro, or participate in unforgettable safari adventures.
Volunteers are encouraged to join social activities with fellow volunteers, practice language exchange with local staff, and engage with the local community to gain a deeper understanding of Tanzanian culture and daily life. During quieter moments, they can relax at the volunteer accommodation, spend time with new friends, or simply enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. These experiences provide the perfect balance between volunteering and exploration, allowing participants to create lasting memories while discovering the unique culture, wildlife, and hospitality that Tanzania is renowned for.
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