FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why pay to volunteer?
Volunteerism is in deed about selfless service, about giving your time and energy to help those in need. In India, the concept of volunteerism is very strict and quite old fashioned. Many Indian NGO’s do not have sufficient operating funds, are not administered in the fashion of a professional corporate body dedicated to social service, or are created as a front operation to gain some notoriety. TGU believes in professionalism at every level. Furthermore, TGU feels that an interested volunteer will understand that constructing any project requires the following: accommodation, food, transportation, support staff, project donation fees, administrative, travel & logistics, marketing, and enrichment programs. TGU is offering a real life constructive program, which may or may not be suited to the needs and likes of a potential volunteer.
What about medical insurance on the trip?
TGU will have access to a full time doctor on call; furthermore, the physical health of a volunteer is a top priority. Being sick, even with a common stomach virus, can dampen a trip for anyone. TGU will have basic medicines, and cover basic health related issues. With regard to a serious injury or medical emergency, it is the sole decision of a volunteer as to whether or not they choose to purchase travel insurance, along with international airline tickets.
What if I am not happy with my project?
After the initial application process has been completed, TGU will be working with a volunteer prior to country arrival and most often the volunteer will be presented with several options to choose from. There is a bit of flexibility built into the program, and over a 3 week period a volunteer has the opportunity to work on 2 different projects in addition to a 3 day on site location group project. Volunteers are not alone and TGU will be working very closely with them to solve any project or adjustment issues.
What if I want to extend my trip?
Many programs offering volunteer service programs do have extension options of up to 6 months or 1 year. Currently, however, TGU programs are structured and designed around a two or three week structure only. TGU programs are very hands on and intensive; moreover, TGU feels that a three week period is the right duration to truly gain from the unique experience. Also, many of those interested in a TGU volunteer experience have families, careers, and busy schedules which make it impossible to spend long periods at a foreign project site.
What is the cancellation policy?
Please read the TGU – Volunteer contract.
Will anyone speak English?
India is a country in which English is very common. A TGU volunteer will always have the support and guidance of an English speaking team, while being exposed to other languages such as Hindi, Maharati, Gujarati, & Sanskrit. Volunteers will be able to express themselves and their thoughts openly and freely through translators.
What are my working hours per day?
Traditional Indian working hours are 6 days a week, up to 10-12 hours per day. Working hours will vary with different projects, however, there would usually be a morning session and an evening session, with a mid day lunch/rest break. Some days will be longer than others. Working times may vary also according to the weather, heat or heavy rains.
Will I have free time?
Yes. TGU aims at providing structure and enrichment for a volunteer experience; furthermore, building in free time into the schedule is an important part of that. Having free time allows a volunteer to reflect, explore the surroundings, email/write post cards, or simply rest.
Can I travel outside the project area?
TGU will provide local guidance and assistance for volunteers wishing to explore the surroundings during their free time; however, it is important that volunteers participate as much as possible in the programs. Once the program is completed, a volunteer has the ability to travel to other parts of India and to stay as long as granted in their Indian visa. However, TGU is not in a position to serve as a travel agency to accommodate longer term interests.
Is it safe to work in India?
Yes. One of the more surprising aspects of volunteering in India should be the sense of safety one feels while in India. India is a very safe and stable democratic nation. Compared with many developing nations, India has a relatively low crime rate. Crime is a fact in every country across the globe; however, TGU works very hard to ensure a safe working environment. TGU is very much in touch with current affairs, foreign Embassies, and seeks the best possible volunteer experience.
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