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  India

Durations of Program: 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 9-12 weeks

Description: Kerala is on the southwest coast of the Indian Subcontinent, sandwiched between the Western Ghats and the Indian Ocean. Volunteers can assist teaching English and other subjects in a school in rural Kerala. ELI works with schools near Munnar, Adimali, Varkala, and several other towns. Many of the schools have a long tradition of accepting children from all castes. Other schools serve underserved populations such as the tribal communities of the Western Ghats and hearing impaired students. Teaching in Kerala is a rare opportunity to experience the easy rhythm of community life in a stunningly beautiful setting. This placement requires at least a one month commitment in order to minimize classroom disruption. Also, please note that the schools in Kerala are on holiday April through June.

Highlights: All ELI Programs are set up on a completely individual basis according to the interests and skills of each participant and the current needs of the local organizations we work with.

Participants in India experience Indias vibrant culture in one of the most exciting parts of the country. The rich cultural heritage of South India is evident in the colorful festivals, elaborate temples, and daily rituals.

ELI participants work with local organizations and have a rare opportunity to gain insight into the day to day workings of Indian organizations.

Language: English

Cost in US$: Costs vary, please contact us for details

Cost Includes: Food, Housing, In-country orientation/Training, In-country staff support and Written materials pre-departure

Pre-departure Support: ELI's expert staff will be happy to assist you with planning your trip Airport Pickup: Participants are met when they arrive at the airport in Chennai and brought to the program accommodation In-Country Orientation: Each program starts with a 2-3 day orientation to help participants get their feet on the ground and able to navigate South India In-country Staff Support: ELI's India coordinator has years of experience working with Volunteers, Interns, and Study Abroad Students. He is very resourceful and on call 24/7 in case of emergency. Accommodations: Participants stay in housing associated with the project and are provided with three basic vegetarian meals a day.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer Projects: arts, English teaching, primary education, secondary education, sports, teaching, youth and youth ministry

Typical Volunteer: There is no typical ELI volunteer. We work with people from all over the world and a variety of backgrounds. ELI has placed volunteers ranging in age from 18-81. Successful volunteers are flexible, upbeat, energetic, and inquisitive.

Age Range: 18-70

This Program is open to Couples and Individuals.

Participants Travel to India Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

ELI-Experiential Learning International's Mission Statement: ELI's full name, Experiential Learning International, reflects our philosophy. We believe that the most compelling life lessons come through experience, and that international experiences are among the most profound influences on our sense of self and our view of the world. ELI facilitates flexible international learning programs for independent travelers by partnering with local organizations to give participants the opportunity to experience and contribute to sustainable ongoing local projects throughout the world.

Year Founded: 2001