Working at an Orphanage During a Gap Year: Has Anyone Done It?

I've always wanted to do some meaningful work, and I'm considering spending my gap year working at an orphanage. Has anyone had this experience? How did you find the opportunity, and what was it like?

Working at an orphanage during a gap year can indeed be a meaningful experience and can help develop your empathy, intercultural understanding, and other interpersonal skills.

Navigating the process requires a lot of research and consideration. First, look for reputable non-profit organizations that facilitate such volunteer opportunities. Many organizations provide structured programs, which can be beneficial for first-time volunteers. You can typically find these opportunities through online search, or by reaching out to international non-profit organizations that work with orphans. In addition, look for personal testimonials and reviews of the organization to ensure its credibility and make sure the volunteers' efforts truly benefit the community.

The on-ground experience can be both rewarding and challenging. The rewarding part comes from the positive impact you can make on the lives of the children and the bonds you can build. However, it can also be an emotionally intense experience. Interacting with children who have been through hard experiences may be difficult. It's essential you're well-prepared emotionally, as your primary role is to provide a supportive and caring environment for these children.

Furthermore, it's crucial for you to know that ethical considerations are paramount in this kind of work. Volunteering at an orphanage can be contentious due to issues like voluntourism and the potential for exploitation. Make sure the organization you choose operates transparently and ethically, and that your work truly benefits the children and the community.

For instance, instead of providing short-term care for children, some argue it's better to support initiatives that focus on structural changes like improving the local social system, empowering families to look after their children, or improving access to education.

Finally, once you return, you can make use of this experience in many ways such as writing about it in your college application essays, showcasing your learned skills and talking about your unique experience in any interviews. Remember, the goal should be making a genuine impact rather than just enhancing your resume.