House of Refuge

Program Description

Established in 1991, House of Refuge is determined to help orphaned and abandoned children in Metro Manila. This organization has been critical in providing these children education in order to ensure a successful future. House of Refuge also provides an adoption service by finding foster families in the United States who are open to the adoption of Filipino children. These children are then given the chance for a family.

The two central interests of House of Refuge are to provide children with care and education. These children range from 4-18 years of age and are often the victim of sexual and physical abuse. These children have been neglected or abandoned. As a volunteer, you will assist with making a difference in the lives of these children.

Please inquire to see the current openings and projects available.

Highlights

The experience of a volunteer:

"In april 2014 I lived for two weeks at the House Of Refuge. I had the task to organize an art class almost every day for the younger boys, what I loved to do. They made beautiful things with clay, origami, paint, crayons and more.

Living at the orphanage I also helped with doing the laundry, cooking and different things what is a good way to see the life of the kids and how things are being done at an orphanage. Also helped that I also slept there so I was most of the time around.

Of course most of the time I spent playing with the kids at the rooftop or in the library. The kids are used to see foreigners and they all understand English. They love to dance and sing and they are really into sports. Three times a week they attend Wushu training and once a week they go to a park to play and I could always join.

The house mothers and the other staff is very friendly, are open for new ideas and always helped me with everything.

I'm going to miss everybody of House of Refuge and I'm really thankful for this amazing experience!"

Qualifications

A TEFL certificate is an advantage as is knowledge about American culture.

You are obliged to have travel insurance which covers your activities.

Volunteer Types

What`s Included

The costs only include the booking fee.

It is possible to:

- Arrange accommodation via World Activity Philippines (costs depend on the type of accommodation)
- Make use of the helpdesk (€ 5 - per day)
- Be a part of an orientation training on arrival (€ 75)
- Arrange an airport pick-up (€ 25)

JoHo/World Activity Philippines members will receive a discount on the booking fee.