Service Adventours

Through its Service Adventours program, Communities Rising provides opportunities for short-term volunteer experiences working with its educational programs in India. Our short-term trips are usually 2 weeks long, and take place during the Christmas holidays and the summer months. Participants frequently travel together as part of a university, high school, or corporate group, but individual volunteers are welcome to join a larger group.

Short-term trips provide volunteers with the opportunity to:

  • Teach in our educational programs
  • Learn about south Indian culture
  • Attend lectures and discussions regarding Indian social justice issues
  • Visit local attractions

 

Some of our short-term trip volunteers:

  • American University
  • Boston College
  • Messiah College
  • Savannah College of Art & Design
  • Srishti School of Art Design & Technology
  • Villanova

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Who Can Participate?

Anyone 16 and older are welcome to travel with us.

How long are the trips?

Approximately 2 weeks; Schedules arranged to accommodate participating school.

When are the Trips?

Winter-break and summer months; Schedules vary depending on the needs of participating school.

Where do we eat and sleep?

CR makes all arrangements for accommodations. Participants stay at a variety of locations depending on the needs of the travelers and the time of travel. Students often stay in guest rooms at a nearby hotel or at an Indian marriage hall. All rooms are air-conditioned and have private baths. Sometimes, volunteers stay in the guest rooms of partnering non-profit organizations. Room and board is included in the program fee.

What is a typical day like?

A typical weekday schedule is below, but weekends can include site-seeing to cultural sites, the beach or shopping.

Typical Weekday Schedule
8am — Breakfast
9:30am–12:30pm — Cultural/educational program

1pm-2pm — Lunch

1pm-3pm — Free
4:30pm-6:30pm — Teach at after school program (English, art, music, sports, games, computers)
6:30pm-8pm — Group activity (cricket, movie, local shopping)
8pm-9pm — Dinner

9pm-10pm – Planning and Discussion

How large are the groups?

Generally 8-15 persons. The size of the group varies from trip to trip.

How is air travel arranged?

Air travel can be arranged by either CR or the participating school. In-air travel time to India is approximately 20 hours depending on point of departure. Students should anticipate that roundtrip airfare will cost at least $1600.

Do I need a passport and visa?

Yes, you need a passport that is valid for 6 months following your return date from India. You also need a valid India tourist visa. See the Volunteer Handout for additional information.

How do we get around in India?

All in-county travel arrangements are made by CR and are included in the program fee. Travel is generally by private bus.

Will I have Internet access while I’m in India?

Yes, contact with the US is possible but you should not expect regular Internet access. One of our centers has Internet access but your time there will be limited.

 

Program Fee: Varies depending on the time of year, length of stay and needs of the volunteer groups.

Click Forms for Registration, Liability Waver, Medical Consent and Volunteer Handout