What is a Volunteer Job?

Simply put, volunteering means to be motivated and inspired to freely give your time and energy to work towards a cause you are particularly interested in. Voluntary work falls primarily into three general categories: (a) long term, paid positions; (b) short, medium and long term, unpaid positions; and (c) short term expeditionary projects where volunteers are self-funding.

Long term, paid: Volunteers are usually asked to commit to a specific project lasting for over a year. In such cases, professionals with solid qualifications, key skills and have the relevant work experience are often sought after. Professionals such as highly trained doctors experienced nurses, seasoned engineers just to name a few. Sometimes these highly qualified experts receive benefits like monthly salaries, paid transportation costs, insurance and are even provided with living quarters.

Short, medium and long term, unpaid: Individuals wanting to volunteer here can expect to work on a project for as little as a few weeks, all the way up to a year. Suitable ranges from students taking time off from school (gap year) to professionals taking a sabbatical or people wish to receive some "hands on" experience. All costs are paid solely by the volunteer.

Short term expeditionary eco-conservation projects: A number of openings exist for people with a very limited amount of time, and wish to take part in conservation and wildlife projects. Normally these assignments are situated in tropical locations and even in vastly remote areas of the world. Again, volunteers might be asked fund their expeditions themselves.

Volunteering in Kuwait

There are many opportunities available for those desiring to volunteer in Kuwait. However, it is very important to first familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations on volunteering. These guidelines can be found by visiting official government websites like Ministry of Foreign Affairs (in Arabic) and Kuwait Voluntary Work Center (KVWC - also in Arabic). A visa/residency permit and the like may be required beforehand, so do check with the nearest Kuwaiti Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

Application depends on the organization. Most groups require a formal application, a personal statement, and some kind of deposit. There are periodic deadlines, so check the organization's sites to find out the deadline.

Programs

Abeer2

Abeer2 is closely affiliated with Kuwait Voluntary Work Center (KVWC). The program assists children with special needs in Kuwait. It includes various activities like after school programs, summer camp, life skills training, horseback riding, field trips, sports and workforce training. For additional information, contact: fax: 00-965-2538-2802 or by telephone: 00-965-7400-062 or 00-965- 7550-443.

Al Kharafi Activity Kids Center

The Al Kharafi Activity Kids Center was developed to help special needs children play with their peers, within a safe and enjoyable environment. The center helps to develop each child's physical, emotional, social, and verbal skills.

K's Path

K's Path is one of two animal shelters in Kuwait who strive to bring about a better life for all animals. The Kuwait Society for the Protection of Animals and Their Habitat (K'S PATH) is an animal welfare organization in the State of Kuwait. The shelter is an open door refuge which means they accept any and every animal into our care. Over the years, K's Path has provided care for dogs, cats, turtles, tortoises, various birds including eagles and owls, ferrets, rabbits, baboons, hedgehogs, and chipmunks. They also operate an educational program to teach children in schools about compassion and kindness toward animals.

Bayt Abdullah Children's Hospice

Bayt Abdullah Children's Hospice, is a facility that provides special care for those who are near the end of life and for their families. Volunteers make a difference in a child's life in hospital, bringing about a sense of normality, care, and fun.

Kuwait Blind Association

Volunteer needed to accompany the blind on trips and other activities as needed. Call any of the following numbers for more information: 00-965-2565-4105/ 00-965-2565-4160/00-965-2562-2245/00-965-2562-2300.

Kuwait Red Crescent Society

The Red Crescent is a volunteer organization which helps those in need in times of disaster. Its activities are spread through the following committees: Relief Committee, Social Committee, Info - cultural Committee, Public Relations & Income Generating, International Affairs Bureau, Emergency Committee, Training and First Aid Program, Youth Group Office, 'BALSAM ' Project, Prison office, Search for Missing Persons, Membership.

Insurance Abroad

While it is possible to find volunteer programs abroad, willing to assist you in obtaining the necessary visa/residency/work permit required, transportation, accommodations and insurance, many times this isn't the case. If the program does not arrange for your insurance, ask for a letter of introduction and prepare to shop around for best rates and coverage.

Consult with your nearest Kuwaiti Embassy or Consulate, or our section on "International healthcare & Medical Insurance" to find out more about your options.

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