Raphael welcomes volunteers. Here’s how you might fit in.

What to expect: Raphael is a community: residents, staff, teachers, volunteers, trainees, visitors. Its setting is peaceful: spacious, with trees, gardens and birdsong.   

Raphael’s main work is special needs education: for children and adults with autism, cerebral palsy, Downs, and various physical and mental disabilities. Additionally, its day clinic provides tuberculosis treatment, and general medical care. There is also a group of residents with treated leprosy, and most recently a simple facility for elder care has opened at Raphael. 

Do I need particular skills? Certain skills are a bonus, but generalists are very welcome too. Physios, Occupational Therapists, Special Needs educators, IT Media and Coms enthusiasts, Sports, Music and ESL teachers and crafts people, will all find a ready fit. But most volunteers at Raphael simply come with a readiness to help out and get ‘stuck in’. 

Free time: Volunteers follow the same work hours as the staff. Weekends are free, and with Tuk Tuks and taxi apps it’s easy to get to the bazaars, cafes and temples. Haridwar and Rishikesh, popular pilgrim sites on the Ganges, are nearby and an easy weekend visit.

Accommodation: The volunteers’ guesthouse is simple but comfortable and convenient. Meals are provided by the cooks for a small charge.  

Many volunteers arrive wondering how it will work out. 

All leave feeling fulfilled and satisfied: enhancing the quality of life of others while at the same time changing for the good in yourself. Give it a go?  

For more detailed information go to
ryder-cheshire.org

In the next issue, number 107- 2026, The Red Feather we will be featuring volunteering at Klibur Domin in Timor-Leste.

Susie Mackerras, RCA Volunteers’ Coordinator, with appreciation to Carolyn Tapley, Chair New Zealand Ryder-Cheshire Foundation, for content.