Volunteering
Volunteers from the Philippines and abroad are an important part of the life of Bahay Tuluyan and help us to keep our programs and services running. Bahay Tuluyan accepts local and foreign, skilled and unskilled volunteers on both short and long term basis, depending on the needs of the organization. Volunteers may apply independently or through a volunteer placement agency.
People interested in volunteering might also like to participate in Bahay Tuluyan's 'Children's Rights Eco Tour' as a way of getting a good orientation into the situation of children in the Philippines before volunteering.
Australian Youth Ambassador for Development
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Bahay Tuluyan and Bahay Tuluyan Philippines Australia (BTPA) are very excited to invite applications for an AYAD opportunity with Bahay Tuluyan. The position of Reproductive Health Program Officer will be commencing in September 2009 for 12 months. It is to be based at Bahay Tuluyan’s Centers in Manila, Laguna and Quezon and will encompass roles in curriculum and resource development, monitoring and impact assessment and staff development.
In accordance with the AYAD program, the successful applicant will receive living and other allowances as well as pre-departure training, medical examination and vaccinations, insurance, return travel and in-country support. Australian citizens aged 18–30 are eligible to apply. The essential minimum qualifications and experience for the position are as follows: tertiary qualification, research skills, computer literacy, good written communication, some experience in development work and experience working with children.
For a copy of the assignment description and/or for further information about the assignment and the application process click here.
AYAD is an Australian Government, AusAID initiative for young Australians wanting to make a difference in the Asia Pacific. For more details about the AYAD program, see www.ayad.com.au.
Volunteering for International Development from Australia (VIDA) Opportunity
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Bahay Tuluyan and Bahay Tuluyan Philippines Australia (BTPA) are very excited to invite applications for a VIDA opportunity with Bahay Tuluyan. The position of Independent Living Skills Program Coordinator will be commencing in September 2009 for three years. It is to be based at Bahay Tuluyan's Children's Centers in Manila, Laguna and Quezon, and will encompass roles in developing and implementing an independent living program and manual, and developing the capacity of staff to deliver the program.
In accordance with the VIDA program, the successful applicant will receive living and other allowances as well as pre-departure training, medical examination and vaccinations, insurance, return travel and in-country support. Australian citizens over the age of 18years are eligible to apply. The essential minimum qualifications and experience for the position are as follows: relevant tertiary qualification, research skills, good written communication, some experience in working with youth and teaching or facilitating.
For a copy of the assignment description and/or for further information about the assignment and the application process, please email info@bahaytuluyan.org.
Volunteering for International Development from Australia (VIDA) places skilled Australian volunteers in developing countries in the Asia Pacific region. VIDA volunteers work with local staff to reduce poverty and achieve sustainable development in the communities in which they work through skills exchange, institutional strengthening and capacity building. For more information about VIDA visit www.vidavolunteers.com.au.
Children's Rights Eco Tour
Bahay Tuluyan’s Children’s Rights Eco Tour is a 13 day experience for a group of a maximum of 10 participants. The Eco Tour is designed to increase understanding about children’s rights, particularly as they apply in the Filipino context, through structured and experiential learning.
Participants will be able to learn about the issues affecting children in the Philippines through personal interaction with abused, exploited, abandoned, neglected and street children as well as observing first hand problems such as child labor, homelessness and poverty. These experiences will be contextualised and deepened through a 3 day orientation about the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and what this means for Filipino children.
The Eco Tour is ideal for learners, young or old, who would like to enhance their understanding about children’s rights at the grassroots level, in a Filipino context. This tour is suitable for those who already have some background in children’s rights and for those who are new to the area. Participants can opt to volunteer at Bahay Tuluyan after the completion of the Eco Tour.
The next Eco Tour will be held in August 2008.
Frequently Asked Questions about volunteering
How long do volunteers normally stay?
Volunteers are welcome to stay for any length of time however we recommend a minimum stay of at least 2 weeks in order to be able to make the most of the volunteering experience. It normally takes volunteers a while to adjust to the climate, lifestyle and the organization, after which the most valuable volunteering often takes place.
Can Bahay Tuluyan provide accommodation for volunteers?
Accommodation for volunteers can be provided within Bahay Tuluyan’s centers for a minimal donation to cover food & electricity. The accommodation is basic accommodation, which may be shared with other volunteers or staff. Showering is normally done using a bucket and ladle.
What activities do volunteers normally do?
Volunteers assist Bahay Tuluyan in a number of ways, depending on their skills, interests, time and the needs of the organization. Volunteers in the past have been involved in a range of activities including tutoring children, teaching music, gardening, painting, running sport activities, assisting with data-basing and providing training for staff. If you decide to volunteer with us, a staff member of the organization will work with you to create your work plan for the duration of your stay, depending on the factors noted above.
What do volunteers need to bring?
Some of the things that would be useful to bring are:
- comfortable, casual clothes for working in (Please note that low tops, spaghetti straps, very short pants/skirts or tops revealing midriff are not appropriate. Body piercings, except ears, are not appropriate – please remove or cover. Tattoos should be concealed)
- mosquito net – at your own preference, although also available locally
- insect repellent, toiletries & bath towel
- activities/tools/equipment that you anticipate that you might want to use as part of your volunteering experience – please feel free to check with us what is already available and what might be needed
Do you accept volunteers on an independent basis?
Bahay Tuluyan accepts volunteers through organizations such as Australian Volunteers International, KOPION, ASMAE and VIDA – please contact those organizations directly to volunteer through their programs. We also accept volunteers on an independent basis, depending on the needs of the organization and capacity for managing volunteers from time to time.
Do you have a selection process for volunteers?
Yes, everyone who applies to become a volunteer at Bahay Tuluyan is screened before being accepted. Bahay Tuluyan reserves the right to refuse applicants who do not pass the screening process.
If you would like to volunteer at Bahay Tuluyan or if you would like to find out more information, please contact us at info@bahaytuluyan.org
