Volunteer
If you would like to know more about Volunteering with us, or if you would like to talk to someone with first-hand experience of volunteering at the Vanessa Grant Trust, please contact Johnny Onslow, a Trustee and resident in Rongai. vanessagranttrust@gmail.com
We have a longstanding history of welcoming volunteers to work alongside local teams at our schools in Rongai – exchanging skills and ideas contributing to sustainable, community-led projects that build on local strnegths and expertise.
The gift of time, energy and expertise we have received from individuals, school and university groups over two decades has been invaluable and enables us to build on our existing strengths and capabilities. And the experience itself has often been life-changing for volunteers.
Our volunteers come from all walks of life, and they share a diverse range of skills and experiences with us: high school and tertiary students, professional educators, special education teachers, and technology experts.
You can make a contribution to a range of educational and development projects knowing the time and skills you share with us will have a lasting impact.
Cheltenham College have been long-standing supporters and participants in the Volunteer Program for over two decades.
A cohort of 16 students from the program in 2023 share their experience at Gogar Primary School in this video.
Volunteer Accommodation
The Molo River House is situated in the heart of Gogar Farm. Completed in 2014, this spacious and secure house has 8 ensuite rooms each with two beds, a communal kitchen and dining area, and a comfortable sitting room.
The shady verandah is an ideal spot to enjoy the sun going down with cool drink. There is a swimming pool nearby and the farm is ideal for walking and jogging in safe surroundings. The accommodation is self-catering, and some basic cooking skills will be helpful.
While the Molo River House is primarily used to accommodate volunteers, there may be times during the year when it is available for visitor accommodation. Contact us at vanessagranttrust@gmail.com to enquire about availability.
Program
We have an established program for students and gap year volunteers in both educational and development projects. We match your interests and strengths to the needs of the Schools, and work with you to identify a suitable project in consultation with the schools.
Your program may involve assisting teaching staff in one of the Schools, conducting extracurricular activities such as art, music or sports, or helping with our riding program for young people with disability. Whatever your own interests or area of expertise, you will surely find a child who wants to learn.
Depending on the timing of your visit, you may also be involved in completing special projects at the facilities: everything from creating murals for classroom walls to organising the libraries. One recent group supported and helped bring together an Early Development Classroom for Gogar Primary School.
Culturally this will be an experience like no other; personally, it will be a great adventure and a satisfying time knowing your contribution will be a legacy benefiting students for many years to come.
“Gogar Farm is a really beautiful environment. I used to walk to school every morning feeling so aware of my surroundings. I do not think I will ever forget how lovely it is here.”
Letty Davis, Volunteer 2013