Teach English to Children at the Remand Home

location
4 - 50 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Brilliant 4.7  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World

Highlights

  • You will help children at the Kisumu Children's Remand Home improve their language skills through reading, writing, and conversational practice.
  • Flexible Teaching Approach: Customize lessons and activities based on your strengths and student needs, offering a diverse learning experience.
  • Enjoy 24/7 in-country support in Kenya, and stay in our iconic bright yellow volunteer dome house like 150+ volunteers before you.

Highlights

  • You will help children at the Kisumu Children's Remand Home improve their language skills through reading, writing, and conversational practice.
  • Flexible Teaching Approach: Customize lessons and activities based on your strengths and student needs, offering a diverse learning experience.
  • Enjoy 24/7 in-country support in Kenya, and stay in our iconic bright yellow volunteer dome house like 150+ volunteers before you.
  • Gain a deeper understanding of Kenyan culture and the challenges faced by local communities, while sharing your own experiences to foster mutual growth and understanding.
  • Guaranteed no hidden costs. Our program is all-inclusive.


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Help improve the English skills of children at the Remand Home through engaging lessons, fostering communication and confidence while making a positive impact.

    Make a Lasting Impact by Teaching English and Life Skills at the Remand Home

    Why Our Program is Important

    The children at the Remand Home face unique challenges and often lack access to consistent educational resources and positive role models. By teaching English and facilitating life skills ...

    About the program

    Make a Lasting Impact by Teaching English and Life Skills at the Remand Home

    Why Our Program is Important

    The children at the Remand Home face unique challenges and often lack access to consistent educational resources and positive role models. By teaching English and facilitating life skills sessions, we aim to provide them with tools for self-expression, communication, and emotional resilience. This program addresses the social issue of limited educational opportunities within correctional environments, offering structured learning that fosters hope, community, and personal growth. Your role as a volunteer is crucial in helping these young people build a foundation for a brighter future.

    What the Program is About and the Volunteer’s Role

    This program focuses on improving English language skills and fostering personal development through additional activities like wellness and teamwork sessions. As a volunteer, you’ll work with the children to create an engaging curriculum that goes beyond traditional learning. You’ll lead English lessons that include games, group discussions, and creative exercises, emphasizing communication and confidence-building. In addition to language teaching, you’ll introduce games and wellness activities aimed at promoting teamwork, resilience, and emotional well-being, offering holistic support that strengthens both academic and life skills.

    Where You’ll Work and Live

    Based about 20 minutes from Kisumu, a vibrant city along Lake Victoria, you’ll work in various local communities, schools, and partner facilities alongside our staff. Volunteers live in a safe, welcoming volunteer dome house, on the premises of the Korando Educational Centre, guaranteeing a fully immersed local experience.

    Who You’ll Work With

    You’ll join a dedicated team of local teachers, social workers, and fellow volunteers who are committed to making a positive difference. Collaboration with experienced staff provides a strong support network and the opportunity to learn from local approaches to education and child development. Working together with this team will allow you to build strong connections, and the shared goal of supporting the children fosters a sense of unity and purpose.

    What We Expect from Volunteers and What You Can Expect from Us

    We are looking for volunteers who are compassionate, adaptable, and enthusiastic about teaching and mentorship. While prior teaching experience is beneficial, it is not required; however, a genuine passion for working with youth is essential. Volunteers are expected to engage positively, show empathy, and maintain patience while guiding students in their learning journey. In return, we provide all necessary teaching materials, orientation, 24/7 in-country support, and structured supervision to ensure you feel equipped and empowered in your role.

    Special Equipment

    Volunteers do not need to bring any specific equipment; all teaching resources, games, and wellness materials are provided. Comfortable clothing for active engagement and personal essentials are all that’s needed.


    Typical day

    Imagine waking up in the colorful dome house, the morning air is crisp, filled with promise, and the first rays of sun filter through the trees, casting a golden light onto the skylight. Outside, you hear the cheerful voices of kids starting their day at the Korando Educational Centre.

    8 AM – ...

    Typical day

    Imagine waking up in the colorful dome house, the morning air is crisp, filled with promise, and the first rays of sun filter through the trees, casting a golden light onto the skylight. Outside, you hear the cheerful voices of kids starting their day at the Korando Educational Centre.

    8 AM – Breakfast
    You step out to join the other volunteers and our team for breakfast, where the conversation flows easily over warm tea and fresh fruit.

    9 AM – Project Work with Lunch Break
    After breakfast, the real adventure begins where you’ll join your chosen projects.

    4 PM – Free Time
    By the afternoon, you’re back, unwinding with fellow volunteers, maybe playing soccer with the kids or sharing stories from the day.

    7 PM – Dinner
    As the sun sets, a delicious dinner is served, and the day wraps up with laughter, bonding, and a sense of purpose.

     

    Note: This schedule is flexible and varies depending on the needs of the projects and volunteers.


    Free-time activities

    During weekends, you'll have free time to relax or explore Kisumu, wider Kenya, and Eastern Africa. With Lake Victoria at our doorstep and the Impala Park nearby, where some of the Big Five can be seen, there are plenty of local attractions. Within a 2-3 hour drive, you can visit Kakamega ...

    Free-time activities

    During weekends, you'll have free time to relax or explore Kisumu, wider Kenya, and Eastern Africa. With Lake Victoria at our doorstep and the Impala Park nearby, where some of the Big Five can be seen, there are plenty of local attractions. Within a 2-3 hour drive, you can visit Kakamega Rainforest, Kenya's last remaining rainforest, or Mt. Elgon National Park.

    For those looking for adventure, the Masai Mara is a must-visit!
    Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife, this iconic national reserve is home to the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains. Witnessing this natural spectacle, along with the chance to see lions, elephants, and rhinos in their natural habitat, is truly unforgettable.

    Long weekends are perfect for traveling further afield to destinations like Mombasa, Uganda, or Tanzania, or for embarking on a safari in the Masai Mara or Lake Nakuru. You can also organize workshops or excursions with the kids, staff, or community, or enjoy activities like football and volleyball with us and the children.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Education Requirements

    at High School level

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    Signed Code of Conduct and Signed Volunteer Agreement

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 09:00 - 15:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Better Me

    Our program is fully transparent and all-inclusive, ensuring that you have everything you need for an enriching experience. 

    Here’s what’s included:

    • Accommodation in our magical Dome House

    • Wifi and Local Sim Card

    • CCTV and 24/7 Security

    • Contribution towards our Projects

    • Airport Pick-up and Drop-off

    • Transport to Project Sites

    • Pre-Departure and Visa Support

    • Orientation and Training

    • Homemade Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    • Drinking Water, Coffee, Tea, Snacks & Fruits

    • In-Country 24/7 Volunteer Supervision

    • Certificate of Service

    Join us for a transformative journey filled with support, comfort, and meaningful contributions!

    Airport Pickup at Kisumu Airport

    Upon your arrival in Kenya, we ensure a seamless experience with our reliable airport pick-up and drop-off service. 

    Our friendly team will greet you at the airport, ready to assist with your luggage and transport you to our Volunteer Dome House in Kisumu. The journey is approximately 30 minutes, offering a great introduction to the local scenery. 


    At the end of your stay, we’ll ensure a smooth drop-off at the airport, so you can relax and reflect on your transformative experience. Your comfort and safety are our top priorities, allowing you to focus on making a meaningful impact during your time with us.

    Accommodation

    The Volunteer Dome House

    All volunteers live together at the Better Me Kenya HQ, located on the secure premises of the Korando Educational Center in our comfortable Volunteer Dome House. This unique building was constructed in 2015 using over 10,000 locally made clay bricks, assembled by local craftsmen under the direction of its originator, Torsten Kremser.


    Torsten designed the house as an inspiring "Symbol of Hope" to support the children of Korando. 


    His vision succeeded when global architecture magazines and media featured the project, kickstarting the one-of-a-kind volunteer experience we offer today.


    Features:


    •     Communal Area: A spacious 5m-high dome designed for socializing, relaxing, and engaging with the children, fostering community connection.

    • Open Kitchen: A fully equipped circular kitchen that allows for shared cooking experiences and interaction.

    • Large Skylights: Provides ample natural light and ventilation, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.

    • Spherical Walls: Enjoy the unique feeling of living inside a giant ball!

    • En-suite Showers: Convenient attached showers to the bedrooms.

    • Solar Heated Water: Eco-friendly solar heating provides hot water, reducing energy consumption.

    • Grey Water System: Utilizes grey water to nourish the surrounding garden, promoting sustainability.

    • Hobbit Entrance Door: Adds a charming, whimsical touch to the entrance, enhancing the dome's unique character.

    • Sunset Rooftop: Two rooftops provide ample space to relax, socialize, and enjoy both sunrise and sunset.


    Join us for an extraordinary volunteer experience in a truly unique setting!

    Food & Beverages

    At Better Me Kenya, our culinary experience is just as vibrant as the surroundings. 

    Meals are prepared daily by a private chef, ensuring that you enjoy authentic Kenyan dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. You'll savor delicious staples such as ugali (a maize-based dish), sukuma wiki (stir-fried greens), and nyama choma (grilled meat), all bursting with flavor. 


    Our chef also accommodates dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone feels at home. Enjoy hearty breakfasts, nutritious lunches, and delightful dinners, complemented by refreshing drinks like chai (tea) and fresh fruit juices. 


    Every meal is a celebration of local culture and community!

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Kisumu Airport (KIS) in Kisumu. We assist you to find cheap flights to Kenya. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Kenya provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Kenya you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Kenya. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    This program runs all year round with flexible durations. Your experience includes airport pick-up, orientation, comfortable accommodation, three daily meals, and 24/7 support. Stay in our welcoming Volunteer Dome House and connect with other volunteers who share your love for sports and service.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    4 weeks (min. stay) 1,340€
    5 weeks 1,605€
    6 weeks 1,884€
    7 weeks 2,159€
    9 weeks 2,475€
    17 weeks 4,216€
    50 weeks (max. stay) 12,400€
    Average fees 291€/week

    Program fees

    291€ per week 4 - 50 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    4 - 50 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with Better Me during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    Better Me

    Brilliant 4.7 rating (23 reviews)

    Non-profit - founded in 2015

    Verified by Volunteer World

    Coordinated by

    Thomas

    Spoken languages: English

    About the project

    Transforming lives through personal growth experiences that create real-world impact in Kenya. Our projects are developed hand-in-hand with local communities. Join us.

    Meet your organization

    Do you dream of
    traveling to Africa,
    experiencing a new culture
    and making a real difference in the world?

    Then look no further...

    Volunteers are our backbone.
    Our work provides a space for volunteers from around the globe to share their skills and talents as tools for transformation. We support them to unleash their highest potential and with that, bring about hope and positive change for children and youth in western Kenya .

    We say, a Better World starts with a Better Me – and we mean it!

    Who We Are

    Better Me is a Kenya-based volunteer organization founded in 2015 with a mission to create meaningful, life-changing experiences for both our volunteers and the communities we serve. Our diverse team includes passionate social workers, educators, psychologists, and community leaders who guide and support our volunteers every step of the way. Over the years, we’ve grown into a well-respected, community-centered organization known for our dedication to real, positive change in Kenya’s Kisumu region.

    What We Do

    Our volunteer programs, along with generous donations, enable us to run impactful initiatives in Kenya. We see Kenya’s new generation as facilitators of positive change, and it is our mission to unlock their potential through our three pillars: Education, Training, and Life Skills.

    #1 Education

    • We provide High-School scholarships for 139 vulnerable youth to access and succeed in secondary schools.
    • We support and assist in the educational practices and needs of the nursery and primary school Korando Educational Center, supporting 302 vulnerable children.
    #2 Training

    We offer a variety of technical and vocational skills training programs for youth, including:

    • Computer Skills and Basics of Programming
    • Crafts and Creative Arts
    • Cooking and Baking
    • Sports Activities
    • Dance and Choreography
    • Theatre and Music
    • Menstrual Hygiene & STD Awareness
    • Capacity Building and Team Development
    #3 Life Skills
    We provide mental and spiritual life skill programs.
    • YUMP (Youth Unleashed Mentorship Program): Supports over 16,000 youth in high-schools with emotional wellness, through group work and individual counseling.
    • Beyond School Holiday Camps: Gives children a place to connect, play and self-express, while they learn critical soft- and life-skills.
    • Chapati Festivals: One day events to uplift, inspire and share love with children in institutions.


    Where We Work

    We operate in Kisumu, a vibrant city on the shores of Lake Victoria in western Kenya. Known for its friendly community and cultural richness, Kisumu offers a safe and welcoming environment for international volunteers. We work closely with local authorities and partner organizations to ensure the well-being of our volunteers.

    Our Mission & Vision

    Our mission is to inspire and empower individuals to create a better world, starting with a better self. We envision a world where communities thrive together, each person reaching their full potential while contributing to the greater good. Through volunteerism and personal growth, we aim to foster resilience, knowledge, and compassion within the communities we serve.

    Our Goals

    • To equip young people with essential life skills, creating brighter futures
    • To strengthen community bonds and support vulnerable families
    • To build a strong network of volunteers and local partnerships that drive sustainable impact
    • To empower our volunteers to grow as leaders, advocates, and global citizens

    Who We Are Looking For

    We welcome volunteers who are compassionate, adaptable, and motivated to make a difference. No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to learn and a commitment to our values. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just passionate about service, if you’re ready to create a positive impact, you’ll find a place with us. Volunteers with backgrounds in education, social work, sports, or psychology are especially encouraged to apply.

    Why Choose Us?

    At Better Me, we offer a unique combination of personal growth and hands-on impact. Our programs are fully hosted and flexible, with options to stay from 1 to 50 weeks. You’ll gain practical skills, connect with a supportive community, and make a tangible difference. Our emphasis on real relationships and personal transformation has made us a trusted partner for volunteers worldwide. Join us for an experience that goes beyond travel and leaves you with lasting memories, new skills, and a profound sense of accomplishment.

    23 reviews · rating4.7

    I’ve already spent nearly 2 months in Kenya and i will be here for one more month. Within the volunteer program of Better Me I have the opportunity to engage various activities with the students of Korando but also other schools like from St. Williams or Kids from the remand. We are free to design ...
    I have stayed for 10 weeks, in total 2 weeks longer than planned since it was a great time there. Better Me as an organisation is well connected with the communities, does have a measurable impact on communities and schools and is very supportive and caring to all the volunteers. Already the place ...
    My experience at better me so far was amazing. I will be here for another two months and have already experienced so much. When I arrived, the children greeted me with singing and dancing with automatically made my day. In general, the team is super nice and open so I immediately felt comfortable. ..
    Ida Poppendieck rating4.6

    2024 at Teach English to Children at the Remand Home

    volunteering with Better Me- an incredible experience! I’ve always wanted to go Africa after graduation high school and going to Kenya to volunteer with Better Me has been the best decision I could make. From the moment I stepped outside the plane and got welcomed by the team I felt at home and ...
    Laura Ridderbusch rating4.6

    2024 at Teach English to Children at the Remand Home

    I felt at home right the day I arrived for the first time. The team, the other volunteers and of course all the kids made me feel so welcomed. I spend an amazing month joining the different projects and spending memorable time with the kids. When I went back to Germany, I immediately missed the home ...
    It was the most valuable experience I have ever had in my life. It’s just amazing how you become part of the family and not just a person that came to work/help from the very first day. The people at better me are super welcoming and they care so much about you feeling safe and comfortable, it’s ...

    Location

    Africa > Eastern Africa > Kenya > Kisumu

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