How volunteering works
From first interest to your final certificate — here is the journey you'll take to make a real, lasting difference alongside Kenyan communities.
Step by step
Your volunteer journey
Six simple steps from sign-up to certificate.
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1
Step 1
Choose a project
Browse our directory and find a placement that matches your skills, cause and dates.
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2
Step 2
Apply
Submit a short application through MyCIVS. Our team reviews and confirms your suitability.
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3
Step 3
Pay
Secure your place with the program fee, which covers placement, support and local costs.
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4
Step 4
Get placed
We match you to a host community and cohort, and prepare your arrival logistics.
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5
Step 5
Volunteer
Live and work alongside local people, making a real contribution on the ground.
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6
Step 6
Certificate
Receive a verifiable CIVS certificate recognising your service and impact.
Programs
Choose your program
Three ways to get involved, whatever your timeframe and goals.
Short-term volunteering
Workcamps and placements from a couple of weeks — ideal for a focused, high-impact stay.
Learn more
Mid & long-term volunteering
Deeper placements of several months for those ready to commit to lasting change.
Learn more
International exchange
Structured exchange through weltwärts and our partner organizations abroad.
Learn moreWhy CIVS
Why volunteer with CIVS
We've welcomed volunteers from around the world for over 25 years.
Grassroots impact
Work directly with communities through our resource centers in Ahero, Awach and Awasi.
Full local support
In-country coordinators, orientation and 24/7 backup throughout your placement.
Safe & ethical
Strong child-protection standards and responsible, community-led volunteering.
Cultural immersion
Live with host families, learn the language and experience real Kenyan life.
Recognised service
Earn a verifiable certificate that documents your contribution.
Trusted partners
Two decades of experience hosting volunteers from around the world.
From application to placement
Five guided stages take you from your first application all the way to working on the ground.
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Step 1
Application
Tell us about yourself, your skills and the cause you care about. A short form through MyCIVS gets you started.
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Step 2
Interview
A friendly conversation with our placement team to understand your goals and confirm the right fit.
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Step 3
Pre-departure training
Online sessions on culture, safety, child protection and what to expect before you travel.
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Step 4
On-ground orientation
Arrival logistics, a tour of your resource center and an introduction to your host community.
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Step 5
Placement
You begin working alongside local people, making a real and lasting contribution.
Find your program
Answer three quick questions and we'll point you to a placement that fits.
Our resource centers
We work through three community resource centers in western Kenya. Explore the map to see where you could be placed.
Ready to find your placement?
Explore our directory of live projects and start your application today.