MEET OUR Volunteers
Volunteering at Snehalaya is a great opportunity to develop personal skills in line with your studies. Read below the testimonials of former volunteers who have done just this.
Apply here.
Since 2018, I have been volunteering with Snehalaya through book translation projects, virtual English classes during the pandemic, and dance therapy inspired sessions! I had the opportunity to visit Snehalaya in person twice now and I have been deeply touched by the kindness that all the children and staff embody, as well as the depth of the transformative work being done throughout the organization.
"As an avid dancer, I noticed how the students were drawn to Zumba and dance as a release, which inspired me to apply for the Donald A. Strauss Scholarship and kickstart the Dance Bhoomi program. This program aspires to give students a movement vocabulary with which to understand their emotions, practice self-compassion and express their ideas – all while tapping into their innate love of dance.
Vyoma, USA, 2022 & 2024
Snehalaya has changed my life and made it richer. I have learnt so much from my time here. I have been involved with so many great events including sports days, games days, Bingo, Pride, a pop up cafe, craft club, chess club and English classes. I have visited many of the current projects and have been blown away by the work of the project leaders and staff and the warm welcome they have given me and their patience in taking time out of their busy days to talk about the projects and answer questions.
As well as meeting so many wonderful people, Snehalaya also influenced in my career change after leaving Leeds Beckett. Meeting the young people here and the support workers made me realise I wanted to do a role to support vulnerable groups in society. It helped inspire my current job in education supporting young adults aged 16-19 at a SEN school which I have done for the last three years.
I would recommend anyone to volunteer, fundraise or visit Snehalaya. To paraphrase one of my friends, if you love Snehalaya it will love you right back."
Ash, UK, 2018-2024
Organising a 24-hour Pianothon to raise funds for Snehalaya was very hard work, but it was extremely worthwhile as it brought together a community of 33 piano players who raised almost £3,000.
Volunteering at Snehalaya has been a very profound experience. I have so much admiration for everyone who works here, bringing security and a sense of belonging to the most vulnerable children and adults. I've been bowled over by the friendliness and kindness of everyone here - staff and residents. I have been particularly moved by the way that the older children look out for the little ones - supporting and protecting them.
I have been profoundly affected by my visits to some of the other projects around Ahmednagar. Even though it has been difficult to learn of the hardships of so many, I have been incredibly impressed by the determination and courage of the staff in their enormous efforts to alleviate suffering and to change people's lives.
Caroline, UK, 2024
As an aspiring International Human Rights Lawyer, I have developed myself as a person during my time volunteering with Snehalaya. I have come to understand the real compassion and empathy that is needed towards victims of horrific crimes. Visiting Snehalaya has been a real once in a life time opportunity to gain real practical experience of the legal challenges faced by people in other parts of the world.
Abbie, UK, 2018
As an International Relations student with a specific interest in gender studies, volunteering with Snehalaya has provided me with the perfect opportunity to practically apply my theoretical studies to real life situations. During my two stays with Snehalaya, I have witnessed first-hand the harsh realities of gender norms, inequalities, and gender-based violence, and been lucky enough to participate in a Malala Fund campaign to lead, educate and empower girls. It is my experience volunteering with Snehalaya that has motivated me to apply for a Master's degree in Gender and Development.
Izzy, UK, 2017 & 2018
Snehalaya has been eye-opening placement as an Art Psychotherapist Trainee. I have learnt a lot about international psychological concerns surrounding the welfare of children & women, including insightful knowledge as to how the inspiring Snehalaya projects manage to successfully empower both women and children. Volunteering with Snehalaya has also given me hands-on experience with therapeutic skills for children & creativity, allowing me to develop my professional skills and my understanding of Art Psychotherapy.
Chloe, UK, 2018
Upon completion of my sports science degree, my goal was to work with children, and to qualify as a primary school teacher. Volunteering with Snehalaya has definitely helped me on my journey towards this goal, giving me vital experience in working with children, sometimes in challenging scenarios. At Snehalaya I have had the opportunity to one-on-one mentor, and teach group lessons, providing me with the opportunity to develop myself, whilst also helping the children.