Sharana, founded by Rajkala in 2001, is quickly developing into a well-run, well-structured grassroots NGO. It currently runs a community programme with crèche, micro-credit scheme, dispensary, social worker and communal space in a village 14km south of Pondicherry. The work ethic of the organisation is based on continuous feedback and communication between the village and Sharana. The village chief donated the land for the centre; it is run by local volunteers and villagers and was inspired by the villagers themselves. It was a complete community project from inception to completion and involved the whole village. It is a very interesting project and an incredible achievement for a young NGO. 

Sharana also runs a Non Formal Education school in Pondicherry for working children, school drop-outs and marginalised children. It also provides remedial classes for school attendees in the evenings. The centre also provides extra-curricular activities and day trips during school holidays that volunteers are encouraged to become involved in.

Volunteers usually assist with the crèche at the village community centre, teaching the children basic English, and are expected to take English classes in the evenings at the Pondicherry centre.  Recent volunteers have also been giving lessons to staff at the community centre.  Volunteers are sometimes required to assist with general administration tasks and there are opportunities to get involved with events such as regular medical camps.  It is up to the volunteers to plan and participate in day-trips, events and extra-curricular clubs; there is much scope for this in the placement.

Accommodation

You will be sharing a flat rented by DIA with the Volontariat volunteers.  The flat is in Pondicherry town centre near plenty of amenities. Pondicherry is a former French colony on the coast and combines wide, tree-lined streets with chaotic bazaars. There are a wide range of shops and restaurants, to suit all tastes.

About You

You must be prepared to do a lot of teaching and to use your own initiative.  You should be enthusiastic and tolerant (you might not always be busy) and have realistic expectations of volunteering due to the language barrier and the fact that Sharana is a relatively young organisation. It is also important to have a serious and sensible work ethic.  But this can be an extremely rewarding placement – with the opportunity to learn about a truly grassroots development NGO.

You will also need to be prepared to travel to work in the village by bicycle or scooter.  There may be additional costs incurred.