Streets
Be a mentor, be a friend.
Though education is a crucial tool in stopping the cycle of HIV/AIDS in Tanzania, the extent of its effects cannot be fully understood without recognizing the growing number of children living on the streets in cities. There are an estimated 1,200 street children in the city of Arusha alone. We believe it is important for our volunteers to interact with these children, one of the most marginalized, forgotten demographics in the world, in order to embrace and solve this impending world issue.
Our street child empowerment program Nafasi Nyingine (meaning “another chance” in Swahili) is unique to our organization and is a truly humbling and eye-opening experience.
“Working within Nafasi Nyingine allowed me to recognize … These kids are just waiting to be given a chance.”
The driving force behind each volunteer’s interaction with these children is establishing human connection rooted in trust. Volunteer responsibilities include:
- Teaching various levels of English to children ages 8-18, working with other volunteers and Tanzanian teaching partners to create an effective lesson-plan.
- Acting as mentors, friends, and positive role models. This may include anything from organizing a friendly soccer match to simply interacting with the children as a way to further gain trust and connect with these outstanding individuals.
- Distributing food at scheduled mealtimes.
