 • All in-country travel costs (excluding flights)
• Project costs
• Training
• Meals for the duration of your stay
• Safe water for drinking
• Use of campsite facilities
• Orientation and language classes upon arrival
• A dedicated team to guide you in Madagascar
NOTE: donated funds do not cover flights, visa, insurance, personal equipment, medical preparations, vaccinations, etc.
How to Apply
Interested individuals are encouraged to download the printable version of the application and submit to our offices via email (no application fee is required to apply). Upon receipt of your completed application, we then forward your information to our partnering organization in the UK.
Assistance in Raising Funds
Do not let the amount of the requested donation discourage you – preventing you from participating in this amazing project. In collaboration with our partnering organizations, Global Crossroad will provide you with assistance in raising funds with various fundraising tools and resources. If you require any support in raising your funds, please do not hesitate to contact our offices.
Volunteers' Responsibilities
 Pioneers take part in a range of practical construction work, conservation research and educational activities, which focus on health and sanitation, sustainable livelihoods and conservation. Volunteer projects are led by some of the most competent conservation and development workers on the island and are entirely based on communities' expressed needs. You will be an integral part of the team and gain an insight into real grassroots conservation and development. Some examples of projects that you will be learning about and may work on are:
- Active conservation of some of the world's most endangered endemic tree species
- Health and sanitation work including building wells and latrines
- Raising health and hygiene awareness - typically working with children in rural areas on crucial issues like nutrition, hand-washing and malaria
- Building and equipping schools
- Teaching English to school children and unemployed adults in rural areas
- Environmental education in remote villages
- Sustainable income-generating activities such as beekeeping and community vegetable gardens
- Development of sustainable agriculture
- Community forest conservation
Pioneers largely work in areas where few tourists visit; weekends are free for you to explore the lush forests, stunning beaches and the joys of interacting with local people. Evenings might, for example, be spent listening to local children singing or joining in with traditional dance.
Benefits to volunteers
This is an invaluable opportunity for you to gain on-the-ground experience that will assist you in pursuing a career in development and/or conservation work, with an organization that has a proven track record in these fields. You will gain knowledge of how a small grassroots NGO operates and the ability to work within a multi-cultural environment with efficient teamwork skills. Understanding the resource needs of rural communities in less economically developed countries and how poverty effects conservation. You will use biology research methods to help you understand sustainable livelihood strategies in impoverished areas. Experience working  on the provision of clean water and reduction of waterborne diseases and have active participation in community-based health awareness programs. After doing all these projects you shall also leave with a basic understanding of Malagasy language.
Project Location
Set in the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Africa, Madagascar is the world's fourth largest island and has a colorful and unique human culture as well as breathtaking natural scenery and flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. Joining Pioneer Madagascar means that you will be living, working and travelling amongst some of the most beautiful and remote parts of Madagascar . The town of Fort Dauphin is set in a stunning location in the southeast of the country, with beautiful beaches and close proximity to some of Madagascar 's famous nature reserves. Projects take place both within the town and in the surrounding rural villages.
Accommodation/Food
 Camping facilities are provided for Pioneers throughout the scheme, although Pioneers do need to bring their own tent. Facilities are basic especially when working in rural areas. There will always be latrine and private washing facilities. Electricity and piped water are available when in Fort Dauphin , however in the field, water is collected and then treated from rivers and wells.
All meals are provided for Pioneers throughout the scheme. Meals mainly consist of rice, beans, vegetables and fruit. Fish (or eggs for vegetarians) are provided when possible. All meals are prepared and cooked by the group, often in open-air facilities. The best possible treated drinking water is always available.
Major FAQ
|
Pioneer Madagascar
