Jamaica Volunteer Programs proudly collaborates with The Risen Messiah Basic School, an Early Childhood Institution/Elementary school nestled within the friendly community of Good Hope. Our partnership aims to infuse hope into this community by enhancing educational facilities and opportunities.
Initiated by a determined principal, the school serves local children. Rapid growth outpaced the school’s capacity, prompting the need for new classrooms and other facilities. This project seeks volunteers passionate about building and nurturing a brighter future for young minds.
As a volunteer, your role encompasses painting, gardening, and participating in school construction and renovation. No prior experience is required, making it accessible for volunteers on gap years, career breaks, university students, or summer volunteering.
If you have a love for working with children, opportunities also exist to assist classroom teachers. Join us in transforming lives and fostering hope through this impactful endeavor.
When you volunteer, you’ll be working as part of the short, mid and long term goals that we have developed in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
On the first day of your project, you will learn about the UN SDGs objectives and mission and how our project is aligning with these goals. You’ll also get information on how for 17 years, we have been working towards these short, mid, and long-term goals. We aim to educate you on local/global issues, and how you can contribute to the organization’s mission to empower the lives of the people in the community.
Long Term Objectives:
This trip offers a rounded experience – from absorbing Kingston’s vibrancy to fostering change at The Risen Messiah Basic School in Negril. Engage with local communities, work on educational projects, and revel in Negril’s lively activities.
Your program’s orientation is scheduled to commence on the first and third Monday of selected months. To ensure a smooth start, volunteers should plan their arrival in Jamaica on the Sunday preceding the orientation
Upon successfully registering for the program, please proceed to book the flights to arrive at the Norman Manley International Airport. Please note that you should book to depart from the Donald Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay which is closest to Negril. Airport pickup services are exclusively available on Sundays.
Upon arrival at the airport, a local team member will warmly welcome you and provide transportation to the volunteer accommodation. Your accommodation expenses are comprehensively covered by the Program Fee and include the first two nights accommodation in Kingston.
For those exploring Jamaica before joining the volunteer program, it is essential to coordinate with the local team for transportation arrangements from your current location. Alternatively, you can independently travel to the volunteer accommodation.
The orientation will be facilitated by our dedicated Jamaica team at the volunteer accommodations, commencing at 9:00 AM on Monday mornings. This comprehensive session will equip you with essential insights for your volunteer journey in Jamaica, including an introduction to the country, local customs, guidelines, safety protocols, travel possibilities within Jamaica, and an overview of your specific project and placement. Additionally, the orientation serves as an excellent opportunity to forge connections with fellow volunteers, and exchange contact information for weekend adventures and social activities.
Volunteer schedules and further program details will be provided during the orientation to ensure you are well-prepared for your enriching experience.
Throughout your placement, you will be staying at Patsy’s Place the homestay guest house with your fellow volunteers. The accommodation will be basic and of course clean, secure and comfortable and you will have access to all the basic facilities you’ll require during your stay.
In Kingston, you’ll stay in a same-sex Dorm, and in Negril, you’ll have a private bedroom with a shared bathroom. A kitchen hub is available with a stove, refrigerator, and utensils to fix all meals. Living is comfortable with electricity, running water, Wi-Fi, and Western bathrooms. There is no air-conditioning in the accommodation, however, fans are provided. Water is usually not heated. You should bring your own toiletries and towels.
Your accommodation is an apartment complex housing many local and international professionals and entrepreneurs.
7:45 AM – Transfer from Patsy’s Place to the Risen Messiah
8:00 AM – Breakfast at Risen Messiah school
8:30 – 8:45 AM – Morning Devotion and Activities
10:30 AM – Construction, painting, and or Gardening Activities
12:00 PM – Lunch time: Rest and eat a traditional Jamaican meal
1:30 PM – Construction work continues
2:30 PM – Transfer from Risen Messiah ECI to an accommodation
3:00 PM – Free Time: Relax or explore the city
6:00 PM – Dinner time – time to revise the day’s activities and eat a traditional Jamaican Meal
This itinerary should only be considered as an example of the kind of activities and time
With weekends designated as free time, you have the opportunity to explore the rich offerings of Negril and the wider expanse of Jamaica. Immerse yourself in the distinctive local cuisine, music, and culture.
Negril is a coveted haven for resorts, flaunting idyllic beaches, enchanting waterfalls, and captivating art galleries within close reach of the volunteer accommodations. For those seeking thrilling experiences, here are just a few:
Furthermore, the Jamaica team extends an assortment of tours that you can conveniently arrange either before your arrival or during your stay. These options encompass:
Make the most of your weekends by embracing the diverse and captivating opportunities that Negril and its surrounding areas present.
Your accommodation is also conveniently situated near Patsy’s Bar and Lounge, offering you the chance to indulge in a variety of delectable local dishes. You can relax with a cold beer, and engage in lively pool games with the locals. This presents a complete cultural immersion opportunity, allowing you to fully embrace local flavors, connect with community members, and groove to the rhythms of classic Jamaican Reggae. By day’s end, you’re likely to forge new friendships and grasp a few “Patois” expressions.
For the best experience, our volunteers who must be 20 and older, are encouraged to be flexible and open-minded. Creativity, initiative, and a sense of humor are also invaluable assets. Volunteers also need to submit important documentation such as travel health insurance, trip cancellation, a resume/CV, a copy of your passport front page, and a criminal background check not older than six months.
Your resume need not be more than one page long with a summary of your skills or gifts so we can best know how to use your service.
In collaboration with a local educational institution situated in Montego Bay, Jamaica Volunteer Programs takes pride in working together to uplift the community. Our joint mission is to instill hope by improving educational facilities and expanding opportunities.
You will be placed in selected schools in communities nearby to your accommodation that need renovations of new classrooms and additional facilities. We are seeking volunteers who are enthusiastic about building and maintenance projects, and who share a commitment to shaping a brighter future for young minds.
As a volunteer, your responsibilities will include performing minor repairs on furniture, engaging in painting and gardening activities, and actively participating in school construction and renovation projects. No prior experience is necessary; all that’s required is a willingness to give back.
For those with a passion for working with children, there are also opportunities to assist classroom teachers. Join us in the transformative journey of changing lives and nurturing hope through this impactful endeavor.
When you volunteer, you’ll be working as part of the short, mid and long term goals that we have developed in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
On the first day of your project, you will learn about the UN SDGs objectives and mission and how our project is aligning with these goals. You’ll also get information on how for 17 years, we have been working towards these short, mid, and long-term goals. We aim to educate you on local/global issues, and how you can contribute to the organization’s mission to empower the lives of the people in the community.
Long Term Objectives:
This trip offers a rounded experience – from absorbing Montego Bay’s vibrancy to fostering change at a local school. Engage with local communities, work on educational projects, and contribute to the development of the city.
Your program’s orientation is scheduled to commence on the first and third Monday of selected months. To ensure a smooth start, volunteers should plan their arrival in Jamaica on the Sunday preceding the orientation
Upon successfully registering for the program, please proceed to book the flights to arrive at the Norman Manley International Airport. Please note that you should book to depart from the Donald Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. Airport pickup services are exclusively available on Sundays.
Upon arrival at the airport, a local team member will warmly welcome you and provide transportation to the volunteer accommodation. The Program Fee comprehensively covers your accommodation expenses and includes the first night’s accommodation in Kingston. Your first-day package in Kingston will include a welcome dinner and the next day’s breakfast.
For those exploring Jamaica before joining the volunteer program, it is essential to coordinate with the local team for transportation arrangements from your current location. Alternatively, you can independently travel to the volunteer accommodation.
The orientation will be facilitated by our dedicated Jamaica team at the volunteer accommodations, commencing at 9:00 AM on Monday mornings. This comprehensive session will equip you with essential insights for your volunteer journey in Jamaica, including an introduction to the country, local customs, guidelines, safety protocols, travel possibilities within Jamaica, and an overview of your specific project and placement. Additionally, the orientation serves as an excellent opportunity to forge connections with fellow volunteers and exchange contact information for weekend adventures and social activities.
Volunteer schedules and further program details will be provided during the orientation to ensure you are well-prepared for your enriching experience.
Throughout your placement, enjoy comfortable accommodation at homestays and hostels alongside fellow volunteers. These facilities provide a shared bedroom and bathroom. They are basic but clean and secure with a communal kitchen with a stove, refrigerator, and utensils for preparing meals. Living amenities include electricity, running water, Wi-Fi, and Western-style bathrooms. While there’s no air-conditioning, fans are provided, and water is not typically heated. Be sure to bring your toiletries and towels.
*This itinerary should only be considered as an example of the kind of activities and time
With weekends designated as free time, you have the opportunity to explore the rich offerings of Montego Bay and the wider expanse of Jamaica. Immerse yourself in the distinctive local cuisine, music, and culture.
Montego Bay is a coveted haven for resorts and cruise ships, flaunting idyllic beaches, enchanting waterfalls, and captivating art galleries within close reach of the volunteer accommodations. For those seeking thrilling experiences, activities such as snorkeling, and invigorating hikes, our Jamaica team offers an array of tours that you can easily arrange, either before your arrival or during your stay. These options span a variety of experiences, ensuring you make the most of your time in this tourist town.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Jamaican culture during your stay, where cultural exchange is not just encouraged but celebrated. Engage with both local and international travelers, creating a dynamic community that fosters meaningful connections. Dive into the rhythmic beats of reggae music, let loose on the dance floor, and absorb the infectious energy of Jamaican culture. Seize the opportunity to learn and speak Patois, Jamaica’s distinctive local dialect.
For the best experience, our volunteers who must be 18 and older, are encouraged to be flexible and open-minded. Creativity, initiative, and a sense of humor are also invaluable assets. Volunteers also need to submit important documentation such as travel health insurance, trip cancellation, a resume/CV, a copy of your passport front page, and a criminal background check not older than six months.
Your resume need not be more than one page long with a summary of your skills or gifts so we can best know how to use your service.
When you volunteer, you’ll be working as part of the short, mid and long term goals that we have developed in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
On the first day of your project, you will learn about the UN SDGs objectives and mission and how our project is aligning with these goals. You’ll also get information on how for 17 years, we have been working towards these short, mid, and long-term goals. We aim to educate you on local/global issues, and how you can contribute to the organization’s mission to empower the lives of the people in the community.
Long Term Objectives:
This journey not only equips volunteers for meaningful engagement in Negril’s St. Anthony’s Kitchen but also offers a taste of Kingston’s dynamic energy and a chance to savor Negril’s attractions.
Building & Renovation Projects
This is your chance to impact poor and marginalized communities. So, lend your unique passion to work with local NGOs and other organizations serving the same areas. Even further, work alongside building professionals to help renovate local schools, churches, and clinics.
One of the projects that can make the most impact is helping to raise funds for building renovations. That is to say, lending physical labor is good, but initiating the raising of funds through your creativity is invaluable.
Youth development programs
Having the opportunity and flexibility to design youth development programs is one of the fastest ways to gain valuable work experience. More so, it’s a great way to learn more about the Jamaican culture.
You’ll have the chance to develop sports programs in basketball, netball, football/soccer, cricket, and of course track & field. And, the youth in these communities are eager to learn new sports so don’t forget to teach your favorite game.
The schools in these underprivileged communities offer the opportunity for you to create campaigns for youth development programs. Climate change and the abuse of the environment with plastic litter are two exciting areas where help is needed.
Jamaican young people are mostly warm, friendly, welcoming, and eager to learn. So, working with them will help you to re-invent yourself through unique and life-changing experiences.
As you work to change the lives and living conditions of the people in the community, the exposure will hopefully change the way you see the world.
You may combine this project with any of the following programs:
Our community development program is based in several villages in the hills of St. Andrew. Placements are within 5 to 10 minutes from Volunteer Home. The programs are also within close proximity to village shops, schools, and churches.
Placements are within close proximity to shops and restaurants as well as your volunteer home.
Your program’s orientation is scheduled to commence on the first and third Monday of every month. To ensure a smooth start, volunteers should plan their arrival in Jamaica on the Sunday preceding the orientation
Upon successfully registering for the program, please proceed to book the flights to arrive at the Norman Manley Intenational Airport.Please note that you should book to depart from the Donald Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay which is closest to Negril. Airport pickup services are exclusively available on Sundays.
Upon arrival at the airport, a local team member will warmly welcome you and provide transportation to the volunteer accommodation. Your accommodation expenses are comprehensively covered by the Program Fee and include the first night accommodation in Kingston. In your first day package in Kingston will include a welcome dinner and the next day’s breakfast.
For those exploring Jamaica before joining the volunteer program, it is essential to coordinate with the local team for transportation arrangements from your current location. Alternatively, you can independently travel to the volunteer accommodation.
The orientation will be facilitated by our dedicated Jamaica team at the volunteer accommodations, commencing at 9:00 AM on Monday mornings. This comprehensive session will equip you with essential insights for your volunteer journey in Jamaica, including an introduction to the country, local customs, guidelines, safety protocols, travel possibilities within Jamaica, and an overview of your specific project and placement. Additionally, the orientation serves as an excellent opportunity to forge connections with fellow volunteers, and exchange contact information for weekend adventures and social activities.
Volunteer schedules and further program details will be provided during the orientation to ensure you are well-prepared for your enriching experience.
Our accommodations are dormitory-style volunteer houses. Rooms are equipped with fans, but there is an option to pay an additional charge for air conditioning. Dorms have bunk beds and volunteers will share rooms with others of the same sex.
All accommodations have electricity, running water, western-style bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi. You are required to bring your reusable water bottle to refill each day, which will help to reduce your cost for clean drinking water. You are also required to bring toiletries.
Solar panels heat up the water in our accommodation, so on days when it’s not sunny or raining, there may be a chill to your shower.
At JVP, breakfast and dinner from Monday – Friday is included in your package.
The breakfast menu includes toast, eggs, fruits, tea/coffee, and juice. Two days per week, you’ll have a full Jamaican breakfast. We have a communal kitchen at the volunteer house that consists of all the essentials, including an electric kettle, refrigerator, utensils, and microwave. There is also space in our cupboards to pack your snacks.
For breakfast and dinner on the weekends, you may use our communal kitchen at the volunteer accommodation with access to amenities like a gas stove, oven, kettles, microwave, and fridge. Alternatively, you can access nearby restaurants offering meals between $5-8.
We cater to all diets, including vegetarians and vegans. To request meals for your special diet, discuss with your project coordinator.
While all projects run from Monday to Friday, your volunteer work schedule is completely dependent on your location and project. However, all projects have a basic structure. On the first day of your placement for some projects, a JVP representative will accompany you for introductions and to help you get settled.
For community development projects your program coordinator will direct and supervise.
A typical day’s schedule is attached below. However, this may vary depending on your program of choice:
|
Time |
Activity |
|
7:30 AM |
Enjoy a lovely breakfast at the volunteer accommodation. |
|
8:00 AM |
Journey to your placement where you will begin working on your project. |
|
12:00 PM |
Lunch break |
|
1:00 PM |
Work on your project continues. |
|
3:00 PM |
Travel back to the volunteer accommodation, go shopping, or explore nearby communities. |
For the best experience, our volunteers who must be 18 and older, are encouraged to be flexible and open-minded. Creativity, initiative, and a sense of humor are also invaluable assets. Volunteers also need to submit important documentation such as travel health insurance, trip cancellation, a resume/CV, a copy of your passport front page, and a criminal background check not older than six months.
Your resume need not be more than one page long with a summary of your skills or gifts so we can best know how to use your service.
You can spend your afternoons and weekends however you’d like, whether it be hanging out with other volunteers, working online, or exploring Jamaica through adventure. At JVP, our representatives are always looking out for eye-opening cultural activities we know you’ll enjoy. Some afternoons you’ll even have the option to attend a local event. It’s your choice!
Here are some options:
Select your desired program & apply for free.
Meet your program advisor & discuss project objectives & goals.
Pay the registration fee to confirm your booking.
Submit pre-arrival documentation & receive support from our team.
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