Boomers Abroad

Highlights

* Working closely with rural communities to help them gain access to the basics of food, clean water and sustainable livelihoods
* Experiencing some of the wealth of plants and animals found only in Madagascar, not least the many species of lemur

Travel Types

• Birdwatching
• Camping
• Ecology
• Environmental Studies
• Volunteering

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Qualifications

No special skills or qualifications are needed as all required skills are learned. However, while practical & research experience is welcome, enthusiasm & sensitivity are a must. Successful applicants will learn skills associated with conservation and rural development work.

Intern Types

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

2,900 USD (at current exchange rate)

Cost Include Description:

To have the opportunity to participate in Pioneer Madagascar, we ask volunteers to raise a minimum donation of 2,000 (GB Pounds). This is made up of GBP 500 initial donation which secures your place on a scheme, and the balance of at least GBP 1,500 is due three weeks before departure. This is a direct charitable donation, and you can be sure your funds are going to help our projects in Madagascar with 90% of all our donations going towards the direct pursuit of our charitable aims.

Don't let the cost put you off!

We are here to support you in raising this donation. We have a wealth of fundraising expertise and facilities available to potential Pioneers, including the Pioneer fundraising manual, raffle tickets, official collection boxes and even a Lemur suit!

You are of course welcome to simply pay the minimum donation from your own funds, although we do hope that through fundraising Pioneers will assist us to raise public awareness about the threats to the people and environment of Madagascar. Most Pioneers raise their minimum donation within about 2 months - having all sorts of fun on the way, with sponsored activities, charity raffles and other events!

Full support before you go...
- Advice about medication & inoculations
- Guidance on insurance
- The 'Survival Guide' loaded with useful advice and information, put together by previous Pioneers
- Your three-month visa leaves 20 days for travel after the Pioneer scheme. We are happy to advise about independent travel around this fascinating island.
- The London office is always there for any pre-expedition questions - and we mean ANY questions!
- Orientation week on arrival. Full information on projects and Malagasy culture.
- Five Malagasy guides travel and work with the group as well as teaching Pioneers Malagasy.
- The Pioneer coordinator, a previous Pioneer, travels with the group to offer support and advice.
- A satellite telephone travels with the Pioneers at all times to ensure that you can be safely returned to Fort Dauphin to a doctor within just a few hours in the event of emergency.
- Azafady NGO staff in Fort Dauphin offer support, advice and facilities for Pioneers with any needs or concerns.

Your minimum donation covers:
- All in-country travel costs (not flights)
- All in-country project costs
- Full training in all aspects of project work
- All meals for 10 weeks and safe water
- Use of campsite facilities
- A full-time London-based dedicated staff member to answer
all your pre-project questions, including fundraising advice
- A dedicated team to guide you in Madagascar
- Orientation and language classes upon arrival in Madagascar

Your donation does not cover:
- Flight costs from Paris to Fort Dauphin (approximately GBP 750)
- Entry visa and travel insurance
- Medical preparations & vaccinations
- Personal equipment
- Personal medicines & any other medical costs during your stay
- Any private travel during your stay in Madagascar

Credit Available

yes

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

Age Range

This Program is open to

American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African, Worldwide Participant. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Other

Participants Travel to Madagascar

Independently

Application Process Involves

• Written Application
• Resume

Typically The Application Process Time is

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad

Azafady's Mission Statement

Azafady is a registered UK charity (no. 1079121) and Malagasy NGO working to alleviate poverty, improve well-being and preserve beautiful unique environments in southeast Madagascar. We are an award winning team that works alongside rural communities on humanitarian and sustainable livelihoods projects, helping communities to build a better future for themselves.

Year Founded

1994