Volunteering with children isn’t just about showing up—it’s about showing heart. When you engage with kids in under-resourced communities like Moshi, Tanzania, you become a part of something bigger than yourself.
At Moshi Kids Centre, children don’t just receive books or meals—they receive a chance to dream. This emotional, life-changing work is made possible by ethical programs supported by Zara Charity and coordinated through Volunteers Tanzania.
Understanding Ethical Volunteering
The Importance of Child Safety and Protection
Ethical volunteering begins with safeguarding. Programs like Moshi Kids ensure every volunteer is vetted, trained, and emotionally ready to work with vulnerable children.
Avoiding Orphanage Tourism
Many well-meaning people unknowingly support exploitative orphanage tourism. But Moshi Kids breaks that cycle by empowering children within their families and communities, never separating them for profit.
Step 1: Define Your Intentions Clearly
Ask yourself: “Am I here to take pictures, or am I here to make a difference?”
Volunteers at Moshi Kids Centre are encouraged to reflect deeply and match their skills, availability, and intentions with the program’s real needs.
Step 2: Research the Organization’s Track Record
A program’s values should match your own. Zara Charity has a 20+ year legacy of impactful tourism and humanitarian projects across Tanzania—including education, women’s empowerment, and child welfare.
Moshi Kids is a proud product of this legacy, with over 800 children supported since its inception.
Step 3: Assess the Community’s Actual Needs
Moshi Kids regularly works with local leaders, teachers, and families to determine real, not assumed needs. This includes nutritious meals, early childhood education, emotional care, and safe play spaces.
Step 4: Ensure Programs Empower Locals
Moshi Kids hires Tanzanian educators and staff, invests in local suppliers, and trains community youth through Volunteers Tanzania.
This isn’t charity—it’s sustainable change.
Step 5: Evaluate Training and Support Provided
From day one, volunteers receive:
Orientation on cultural sensitivity
Access to structured lesson plans
Emotional support sessions
Local guidance from Zara Charity staff
You’re never alone. You’re part of a family.
Step 6: Confirm Long-Term Impact Over Short-Term Fixes
The work you do should leave ripples.
Children from Moshi Kids have successfully joined primary schools, while others gain from long-term counseling and community workshops. You’re not just helping today—you’re investing in a generation.
Step 7: Commit to Cultural Sensitivity
Moshi Kids doesn’t just tolerate Tanzanian culture—it celebrates it. From Swahili storytime to traditional meals and holidays, volunteers become part of the rhythm of life.
Respecting culture creates deeper trust—and deeper change.
Testimonials from Real Volunteers
Moshi Kids’ school mentorships have boosted attendance and skills for hundreds of children. Volunteers share transformative experiences, detailed in our ethical volunteering blog. This mirrors Plan International’s education efforts.
“When I hugged a child goodbye and she whispered ‘Asante’ with a big smile, I knew this experience had changed us both forever.”— Hannah T., Germany
“Zara Charity’s mission isn’t about charity—it’s about justice. That’s why I’ll keep coming back to Moshi Kids.”— Isaac B., Australia.
Common Myths About Volunteering with Children
| Myth | Truth |
|---|---|
| “You don’t need training.” | Ethical programs require you to be prepared. |
| “You’ll change lives in a week.” | Real impact is rooted in consistency and community involvement. |
| “Volunteering is always free.” | True programs use fees for food, accommodation, and training. |
| “Photos are okay anytime.” | Children’s privacy and dignity come first. Always ask. |
FAQs About Volunteering at Moshi Kids
1: Can I volunteer without a degree or teaching background?
Yes! Passion and willingness to learn are what matter most. Training is provided by Volunteers Tanzania.
2: Is Moshi safe for international volunteers?
Absolutely. The region is tourist-friendly, and Zara Charity ensures 24/7 support and safe accommodations.
3: What kinds of activities will I do?
From reading and playing to teaching hygiene, every moment you spend is focused on nurturing childhood.
4: What are the costs?
Volunteer packages include food, housing, transport, and training. Funds go directly into sustaining the program. Learn more here.
5: Can I donate instead of volunteering?
Yes! Support Moshi Kids here and be part of the change, even from afar.
6: Is this suitable for a gap year or career break?
Definitely. Many past volunteers have called it the most meaningful chapter of their lives.