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Volunteering with AFA
AFA has always relied on volunteers and consequently they are seamlessly integrated into the organization. In fact, we rely on volunteers as an integral part of our organization, and we cherish the relationship we and our children have with our volunteers.
AFA has a long history of working with volunteers from a wide range of disciplines and around the world. Currently, there are both Indian and oversees volunteers working in the school, office, library as well as assisting with fundraising and events. For some, volunteering involves a commitment of a few hours a week on a regular basis or specific activities, while others chose to come full-time for a pre-arranged period. Some are parents of children attending the Open Door School, others are outsiders who want to help and lend their time and skills.
At AFA we try and give volunteers a chance to be placed in all the setups at AFA. This includes the various classrooms of Open Door: our model school; Adhar: the work skills training center for young adults with autism; Mother-Child Programme: a training group for parents and extended family; as well as observe assessments, counselling and diagnostic sessions through the outreach programme. During the second half of the day, volunteers in the past have often helped in the office with a variety of things including documentation on organization development, personnel, AFA projects, filing, preparing teaching aids. Thereafter, depending on their duration of stay as well as their particular area of interest/specialization, a mutually acceptable schedule is decided upon.
During their course of stay, volunteers are also encouraged to participate in cultural activities and workshops during their period of stay. In all cases, these volunteers work with and alongside other members of staff and are given the necessary training and guidance. Supervision is provided through discussions and extensive resource material is available in the organization. Material will be provided by the organization. No reimbursement is possible at the initial stage of participation. Accommodation near the organization is available at a reasonable charge.
In order to learn about the children, the cause and the organization itself, we require a minimum commitment of three months in the organization. Other than donating the time and skills as a volunteer at AFA, you can also contribute in form of materials included in our 'Wishlist'. People have also contributed money through cheques or demand drafts payable to Action for Autism. Financial donations to the school or towards construction can receive 35 AC exemptions. More information is available on our website for the same.
Those interested in volunteering with the organization, please read the Volunteer Positions and contact us with the following documents:
1. Completed copy of Volunteer Application (available from our website);
2. A cover letter stating tentative dates and duration of visit, objectives for coming to AFA and how you hope to achieve them;
3. A copy of your CV/resume;
4. Two letters of referenceFor more information write to:
Volunteer Coordinator
Action for Autism
Sector 5, Jasola Vihar
Behind Sai Niketan
New Delhi -110 025
E-mail: autism@vsnl.com