Housing one-fifth of the world’s population is no easy job. Despite the fact that China is a major economic powerhouse, it still needs volunteers for its more impoverished and less advanced localities. It is possible to help those individuals by volunteering in orphanages, hospitals, schools and a host of other places.
Why Volunteer in China
Volunteering can allow one to discover the real China in a meaningful way. What better way to experience local culture, take part in regional events and celebrations? It is the ideal way to see the real China while giving to a community that really needs the help.
Best Volunteering Programs in China
Many international charities working in China provide one with the opportunities to learn Chinese, gain valuable practice and discover China in a cost effective way. There is a large variety of options for which one can volunteer. Future teachers can opt for educational placements and gain valuable experience at the same time.
Volunteers can be teaching to children, teaching English, assisting teachers, sharing professional skills/experience, caring for the elderly, observing and assisting local medical professionals, caring for people with disabilities, and assisting teachers of special education.
There are also HIV/Aids awareness programs, construction work, women empowerment, and agriculture work to mention just a few of the amazing projects one can participate in. If you are passion about helping animals you could apply to join panda conservation projects.
Locations
Most programs are in the larger cities like Beijing, Shanghai and X’ian.
Cultural and Learning Activities
Through cultural and learning activities, you will see the work of local artists and calligraphers, visit the site of the famous ancient Terra Cotta Army, participate in weekly Mandarin language classes, and engage in lively discussion on Chinese culture and society. Examples of Perspectives Programming include visits from experts in the practice of traditional Chinese medicine and a local painter skilled in the unique arts of Chinese painting and calligraphy.
Free Time
During your free time, you will have the opportunity to explore Xi’an. You might choose to walk around the city, visiting its night markets where you can find beautiful silk paintings and calligraphy sets, or travel to other parts of China. Beijing, the Great Wall, the Stone Forest, and the Chinese countryside are easily accessible from Xi’an.
FAQ
Duration and start dates
Volunteers can select programs that last as little as one week to six months or as long as one year. Volunteer agencies match the interests of the volunteers with projects where their services will be most needed and beneficial.
Language
Programs advertised to international staff only require English. Learning basic Mandarin is recommended though.
Feedback & Reviews
“I saw myself change … I saw my heart open up, and up, and up. Throughout my stay in China, I helped school kids with their English, and I discovered a wonderful kind of people in a very distant place. It is something you just have to experience and then you will know the feeling.” – John Scherwitz