Vista Community Project - South Africa

About the project

Working Hours
Volunteers are usually quite flexible, as there are no set hours required. Standard hours are Monday to Friday, from 8:00am to 5:00pm. If you'd like to work fewer hours, that can easily be arranged.

Colleagues / Who You’ll Work With
You’ll work alongside a team of permanent staff and professionals. There are almost always other volunteers to collaborate with, as well as local residents who are part of the project.

Language Spoken at the Project
English is the main language spoken at the project. Since most people involved have had access to education, their English is generally quite good.

Holiday Periods
The project runs year-round, so it doesn’t matter when you start, you’re welcome anytime.

Accommodation
There are two guesthouses with their own kitchens. You may have your own room or share with another volunteer. There’s Wi-Fi, and the beach is just a five-minute drive away. A washing machine is available, and the house is regularly cleaned.

Transport to and from the Project
Volunteers usually rent a car together. The cost is shared and comes to around $65 per week.

Useful Items for the Project
If you’ve got some extra room in your bag and would like to bring something for the project, it’s greatly appreciated. Get in touch with us first so we can suggest useful items to pack.

Airport Pick-Up
You’ll be warmly welcomed at Port Elizabeth Airport by our local contact. You’ll be taken to your accommodation, then we’ll head out to withdraw cash, get a local SIM card, and do a grocery shop. That evening, you’ll go out for dinner with your housemates, always a fun way to settle in.
The next day includes a Code of Conduct session and a township tour to help you get familiar with your new surroundings. It can feel a little overwhelming at first, but you’ll settle in quickly. After a few days, you’ll join a workshop on South African history, safety, customs and traditions. And then it’s time to get started. Your new adventure begins!

Free Time
Check out some of the amazing day trips and experiences you can enjoy in your free time. Since you’re already in such a stunning destination, it’s the perfect chance to explore more of the country!

Your Contact Person
Your local contact in South Africa is Jacco.

Volunteer profile

For this project, we are looking for volunteers who want to contribute to supporting people struggling with drug addiction, abused women and children, and individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. You will assist with a range of activities across different work areas such as the crèche, kitchen, woodworking workshop, recycling, and garden.

The projects in Ghana are suitable for young volunteers aged 18+ as well as the 50+ age group.

Qualities That Matter

Affinity with Care and Education:
Enthusiasm for supporting vulnerable groups.

Initiative and Proactivity:
Being able to work independently and take initiative is important.

Patience and Empathy:
Being understanding and patient when working with people in difficult circumstances.

Cultural Sensitivity:
Respect for local customs and traditions.

Flexibility and Adaptability:
Adapting to various conditions in South Africa.

Communication Skills:
Good cooperation with local staff and other volunteers.

Team Spirit:
Collaboration is essential.

What to Expect

You’ll assist with day-to-day tasks such as organising children’s activities, guiding new residents, fundraising, and administrative duties. Working hours are flexible, usually Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 17:00.

Your stay in South Africa offers opportunities for personal and professional growth, discovering new cultures, and unforgettable experiences.

If you have a passion for care and education, and are ready to commit to a challenging but rewarding environment, then this project in South Africa is perfect for you. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the quality of life for these people.

For parents

We completely understand that having your child volunteer overseas can feel like a big step. In fact, it’s often just as exciting for parents as it is for the young person themselves, and sometimes even a little more nerve-racking. That’s why we want to reassure you that your child is in good hands.

Since 2004, we’ve been supporting volunteers and have guided many young people through meaningful international experiences.

We take safety seriously. That begins with carefully selecting our partner organisations, volunteer projects, and host families. Every placement is thoroughly checked to make sure it meets our high standards for safety, support, and ethical practices.

Our experienced and caring local contacts are always there to support volunteers throughout their journey. From clear pre-departure preparation to personal assistance during the project, we’re available to help whenever needed.

We believe strongly in open communication. You're always welcome to contact us with any questions or concerns. We’re here not only for the volunteers, but for their families too.

You can feel confident knowing we are fully committed to creating a safe, supportive, and positive experience. Your child’s wellbeing, safety, and overall happiness are our top priorities.

If there's anything you’d like to ask or talk through, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you every step of the way.

Warm regards,
The Volunteer Worldwide Team

Costs

Average cost for a 5 week stay = $369/week

• 1 week of volunteer work: $499

• 2 weeks of volunteer work: $899

• 3 weeks of volunteer work: $1249

• 4 weeks of volunteer work: $1569

$249 for each additional week
+ $85 per week for car costs

*All prices are in AUD.

Included in the price:

Before departure

• Online introductory meeting

• Information pack with details about the culture and customs of South Africa, as well as an overview of all preparations you need to make, including info on insurance, money matters, and travel tips

• Preparation training

• Assistance with obtaining a police check (VOG)

• Access to the online community

• Support with your visa application

• Help with booking your flight (on request)

During your trip

• Airport transfer to the project, including one night in a hotel

• On-site orientation

• Support with visa extensions (if needed)

• Guidance throughout your entire stay

• Accommodation and a private room with a host family

After returning home

• Evaluation moment

• Certificate (on request)

• The option to stay active in our WhatsApp community

• Memories for life!

Not included in the price:

• Flights

• Vaccinations

• Visa

• Police check (VOG)

• Meals

• Travel insurance