About Us
Our Community Outreach & Women’s Empowerment Initiative in Arusha, Tanzania is a program designed to support women, children, and vulnerable families living in underserved communities.
We work with groups facing social and economic challenges such as single mothers, widows, schoolgirls, and rural families who have limited access to education, health information, counseling, and skills development opportunities.
The program brings together local experts, educators, and international volunteers to create meaningful change through education, empowerment, and hands-on community engagement. Our focus is not only to support, but also to build confidence, independence, and long-term opportunities for the people we work with.
All activities are guided by a professional local team in collaboration with experienced coordinators and community leaders.
Program Focus Areas
1. Women & Community Education Sessions
- Women’s health and reproductive education
- Pregnancy, childbirth, and childcare awareness
- HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention
- Family planning and menstrual health
- Human rights, gender equality, and protection laws
- Personal development and life skills
- Environmental awareness and climate change education
2. Workshops & Skills Development
- Entrepreneurship and business training
- Financial literacy and income generation
- Soap making and handicrafts
- Sewing reusable menstrual pads
- Baking and small business production
- Nutrition and healthy cooking
- Tree planting and environmental conservation
- Sports, games, and mental health activities
- Self-defense and safety awareness
- Basic first aid training
3. Community Outreach Activities
- Field visits to rural villages and schools
- Support for women’s groups and health centers
- Educational campaigns and awareness programs
- Counseling and mentorship sessions
- Sponsorship and school support initiatives
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
- Meaningful involvement in supporting women and girls in the community
- Opportunity to contribute to women’s empowerment and gender equality initiatives
- Hands-on experience in education, life skills, and community development activities
- Friendly and welcoming local environment
- Cultural exchange and authentic Tanzanian experience
- Safe and supportive placement for international participants
- Opportunity to develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills
- Direct impact on improving opportunities and confidence for women and girls
Requirements
- Basic English communication skills
- Interest in women’s empowerment and community development
- Respectful and positive attitude toward different cultures
- Willingness to learn and participate in community activities
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Volunteer experience
A typical week in the Women Empowerment & Community Development Initiative combines direct engagement with women and girls and participation in other community-based activities under Gilys Children Foundation.
Women Empowerment Days (Twice per Week):
On Thursday and Friday, participants work directly with women and girls in the community. The day begins with breakfast at 07:00 AM, followed by departure at 08:30 AM. Activities run from 09:00 AM to 02:30 PM and may include life skills workshops, educational support, mentorship, health and hygiene awareness, entrepreneurship discussions, and confidence-building activities designed to empower women and girls.
Other Program Days (Three per Week):
From Monday to Wednesday, participants may also contribute to other programs under Gilys Children Foundation, including:
- Daycare and preschool education
- Hospital support activities
- Elderly care and community support
- USD 120 per week – Dormitory room with shared bathroom
- USD 170 per week – Private room with shared bathroom (for volunteers who prefer to stay alone)
- USD 220 per week – Double room with private bathroom and jacuzzi (ideal for couples or anyone who prefers extra comfort and privacy)
Volunteers stay at our comfortable and friendly volunteer hostel located in a safe area of Arusha. The accommodation can host both individual volunteers and groups, creating a welcoming environment for cultural exchange and community living.
We offer different room options, including dormitory rooms, private rooms, and double rooms for couples or volunteers who prefer extra privacy. The hostel has both shared and private bathroom options, including selected rooms with a private bathroom and jacuzzi.
- Facilities available at the accommodation include:
- Free Wi-Fi/internet access
- Comfortable beds with bed linens
- Shared kitchen and dining area
- Hot showers and clean bathrooms
- Safe and secure environment
- Seating and relaxation area
- Electricity and clean water supply
- Laundry support available nearby
- 24/7 staff assistance and volunteer support
The hostel usually accommodates volunteers from different countries, providing a great opportunity to meet new people, share experiences, and engage in cultural exchange.
Meals are provided three times per day during the program: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
We serve three meals daily and also accommodate vegetarian diets. Volunteers can choose meals according to their dietary preferences, and we ensure there are suitable and healthy food options for everyone.
Meals are prepared locally and are designed to give volunteers a taste of Tanzanian cuisine while ensuring balanced nutrition. Special dietary needs can also be considered upon request.
During free time, volunteers have the opportunity to relax and enjoy a variety of cultural and recreational activities. You can explore Arusha town, visit local markets, and experience everyday Tanzanian life. Volunteers can also participate in cultural exchange with local people and children at the center.
Other popular activities include visiting nearby attractions such as waterfalls, coffee farms, hot springs, and local villages. Volunteers may also join weekend safaris to national parks such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire at an additional cost.
At the hostel, volunteers can enjoy social time with others, play games, share experiences, learn basic Swahili, or simply relax after a meaningful day of volunteering.
Photos (5 total)
Showing all 5 photos
