Working alongside schools and youth groups, volunteers run training classes for football, volleyball, basketball and other sports. In some locations you will be involved in recruiting new children for the more deprived areas that are not attending schools or groups due to lack of funds.
As well as teaching children rules and training methods, you will also work alongside the staff on techniques to improve their self esteem, learn about responsibility, educate them on health and sanitation, and in particular help them understand how they can minimize their exposure to diseases such as HIV/AIDS. Volunteers organise and run tournaments and competitions and help staff provide an environment where the children feel cared for and able to relax away from their worries at home. The arrival of the World Cup in South Africa in 2010 has driven interest in sports in deprived African communities and more volunteers are needed to help sustain this interest and provide the attention these children need.
For many people, this is one of the most powerful experiences of their lives – putting into context all their day-to-day stresses and discovering simple happiness. And a real stand-out experience on any CV as well!