Wie sicher ist es in Underberg?

Underberg gilt als ruhig und sicher. Trotzdem solltest du grundlegende Vorsichtsmaßnahmen treffen: keine Wertsachen offen zeigen, nachts nicht allein unterwegs sein und stets aufmerksam bleiben.

Wie sieht es mit der allgemeinen Sicherheit in Südafrika aus?

In großen Städten kann die Kriminalitätsrate höher sein. Da du im ländlichen Raum eingesetzt wirst, ist das Risiko deutlich geringer. Informiere dich trotzdem regelmäßig über aktuelle Hinweise.

Wie ist die ärztliche Versorgung?

Direkt in Underberg befindet sich eine kleine Klinik, die sich direkt um Notfälle kümmert. Außerdem befinden sich weitere Kliniken und Krankenhäuser in den umliegenden Städten mit einer Fahrzeit von ungefähr 1,5 – 2 Stunden.

Was sollte ich über die Kultur in Südafrika und Underberg wissen?

Underberg liegt in der Provinz KwaZulu-Natal mit starkem Bezug zur Zulu-Kultur. Respekt gegenüber Älteren, höfliches Verhalten und Zurückhaltung bei politischen Themen sind wichtig.

Wie sieht ein typischer Tag vor Ort aus?

Einen typischen Tag gibt es in Südafrika kaum. Da eure Bereitschaft und Kreativität im Vordergrund steht und ihr euch grundsätzlich frei entfalten könnt, wird auch kein Tag genauso sein wie ein anderer. An manchen Tagen fahrt ihr mit den Kindern vielleicht in die Schule, an anderen Tagen erledigt ihr Aufgaben auf dem Gelände des Kinderdorfs Clouds of Hope oder gönnt euch ein bisschen Freizeit, während die Kinder in der Schule sind. Danach könnt ihr die Kinder beispielsweise bei den Hausaufgaben unterstützen oder mit ihnen kreative, lustige, sportliche, musikalische oder andere Aktivitäten machen. Ihr seid bei der Tagesplanung also nicht nur abhängig von den Menschen um euch herum, sondern sollt auch sehr gerne eigene Ideen einbringen.

Volontariat im Kinderheim – BE YOUR OWN HERO e. V.

Volunteering Area

Volunteering in a children’s home

Project Duration:

3 months

Next Start Date:

07/2026

Work periods

Anytime

Description

As a volunteer at a children’s home, you can look forward to a varied and rewarding role where no two days are the same. You will become part of a caring and lively environment, accompanying, supporting and encouraging children in their daily lives. You will work closely with the 'house mums' and the home's management, helping to organise leisure activities, assist with homework and carry out practical tasks on the grounds. Although each day brings small new challenges, your work is based on a clear structure. At the beginning of your 3-month volunteer placement, the tasks that will be part of your stay are agreed upon together - for example, regular computer lessons, homework support or sports activities with the children. These core responsibilities will accompany you throughout your time at the children's home. At the same time, there will be space for spontaneous support, for instance, helping with organisational duties or practical work on the grounds. This way, you will experience a balance of reliability and lifely variety.

Accommodation and Meals

During your volunteer placement, you will live directly on the grounds of the children’s home in a separate house that is currently not used by children. This accommodation allows you to retreat to a quiet space while still being close to the heart of daily life. The house is equipped with its own kitchen and bathroom, giving you independence and comfort. You'll find everything you need for your shopping in the village of Underberg. The Underberg SuperSpar offers a wide selection of fresh products, meat, baked goods and ready meals. There are also other shops where you can find everything you need, including a restaurant, the Lemon Tree Bistro, for when you do not feel like cooking yourself.

Required Skills

For your volunteer placement at Clouds of Hope , there are a few key qualities you should bring with you: You have a good understanding of people, are empathetic, and are good with children and young people. You enjoy sharing your knowledge and skills and want to support the children in their development. You enjoy looking after and supporting the children in their daily lives – whether with homework, playing or simply being there for them. If you’re sporty or musical, that’s a real bonus – we’d love for you to share your talents! Your English is really good – at least B2 level or higher. You enjoy working independently, pitching in and taking on responsibility. You have a solid general education and hold at least an A-levels certificate or an equivalent qualification.

Stories

Frequently Asked Questions

How safe is Underberg?

Underberg is considered calm and safe. Nevertheless, you should take basic precautions: do not display valuables openly, avoid walking alone at night, and always stay alert.

What about general safety in South Africa?

In larger cities, the crime rate can be higher. Since you will be based in a rural area, the risk is significantly lower. Still, it’s a good idea to regularly check for current safety advisories.

What is the medical care like?

There is a small clinic in Underberg itself that handles emergencies. Additional clinics and hospitals are located in the surrounding towns, approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away.

What should I know about the culture in South Africa and Underberg?

Underberg is located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, which has a strong connection to Zulu culture. Respect toward elders, polite behavior, and avoiding political discussions are important.

What does a typical day look like on site?

There is hardly such a thing as a “typical day” in South Africa. Since your willingness and creativity are at the forefront and you are generally free to shape your own time, no two days will be alike. On some days, you might drive the children to school; on others, you may take care of tasks at the Clouds of Hope children’s village or enjoy a bit of free time while the children are in school. Afterwards, you could help them with homework or join them in creative, fun, athletic, musical, or other activities.

When it comes to daily planning, you are not only guided by the people around you – you are also encouraged to bring in your own ideas.

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