Volunteers with DEAAF have an opportunity to learn and utilize their skillsets for a rewarding experience at the DeSanto Centre for the Deaf.  As a Volunteer, you will help with day to day assistance at the Centre, including teaching classes to our students, one on one tutoring with students who may need extra attention, helping create activities and lesson plans, and partaking in sports and other activities throughout the school week.  If passionate about certain topic areas, you’ll have the opportunity to create teaching plans with staff and to teach these passion areas as well.  Volunteers need to be flexible and adaptable, willing to help out where needed with students. 

Expectations of all volunteers are to show respect to different cultures and people, especially to the deaf students and community.  A commitment to working within culture, being open minded, working hard to learn the language and to act professional and responsible at all times. 

Livingstone is the “Tourist Capital” of Zambia, and the “Adventure Capital” of Africa. Housed uniquely where one of the Natural 7 Wonders of the World are located– Mosi-oa-tunya (The Smoke that Thunders) or Victoria Falls.  During your free time, go for a safari at several parks, where the border town meets 2 other countries: Botswana and Zimbabwe. Go bungee jumping by the falls, micro flighting over the Mighty Zambezi River, or take the day white water rafting down it. Test your adrenaline with a zip-line across the gorge or a swim at the edge of the 35 story waterfall. Livingstone has several tourist attractions to offer, and is a gateway to Southern African tourism for both Zambia and its neighboring countries. 

All volunteers must possess a Bachelor’s degree in teaching.  Training will be given for a week and your level of Sign Language will be assessed.  Zambian Sign Language will be taught to all volunteers.  Cultural training will also be provided, including local greetings and practices.  All ongoing team workshops will include volunteers as well.  All DEAAF programming is non-religious and focuses on education and well-being for deaf children.  

As a DEAAF Volnuteer, you will receive:

• Meals cooked by our in-house kitchen staff during work hours on weekdays
• Airport pick-up and drop-off to the Centre
• Experienced international and local staff members who live and work with you every day
• A full introduction, orientation and training session to ensure you can contribute successfully to the program
• Internet and Air Conditioning
• All necessary project equipment and resources you’ll need for your work