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Founded in 2001, Amani Centre for Street Children provides housing, food, medical care, and education to houseless Tanzanian children. Amani welcomes volunteers for short- and long-term projects, and many travelers donate a few days of their time to give back to the community.
Along with providing schooling, care, and a safe place for children to sleep, Amani runs family reunification programs and street outreach. However, their international volunteers usually work with kids staying at the center. Short-term volunteer programs last 2–10 days and involve responsibilities ranging from helping out in classes to supporting the kitchen staff in preparing meals. If you have more time to spare, long-term positions are available in roles ranging from teaching English to providing medical assistance.
Short-term volunteers are requested to raise a certain amount of funds before their visit.
You'll need to apply to become a volunteer in advance by contacting Amani directly.
Several fundraising opportunities are available for those who don’t have time to volunteer in Moshi but still want to get involved.
Amani is located in Shirimatunda, about a 10-minute drive west of the Moshi bus stand. It's too far to walk, but tuk-tuks, taxis, and boda-bodas (motorbike taxis) are widely available and easy to hail. If you plan to volunteer, the Amani staff can help advise you about transportation options.
While the best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season (from late May until October), Amani welcomes volunteers throughout the year. If you're traveling to the area specifically to volunteer, check with the organization directly to see when your services might be most helpful.
Another way to give back to the community in Moshi is by shopping at Moshi Mamas, a craft cooperative run by local women. Here you can buy all sorts of crafts, from beaded necklaces to dog coats. The project was created by a group of graduates from Give a Heart to Africa, a nonprofit school for women that focuses on business and entrepreneurship skills.