Special Needs

Background

Behind Bali’s world-renowned charm, awareness of inclusivity and the needs of individuals with disabilities remains low. Many families in Bali still struggle to access appropriate services for their children with physical or intellectual disabilities. While special education institutions and therapy centers exist, they still require more resources, both professional staff and dedicated volunteers.

Therefore, this volunteer program aims to bridge this gap by engaging the broader community, both local and international, in supporting the education and skill development of individuals with special needs in Bali. The program seeks to assist in teaching, therapy, and social activities that help improve their quality of life.

In addition to creating a positive impact on individuals with special needs and their families, this program also offers valuable experiences for volunteers, helping them understand the importance of inclusivity and community empowerment.

Where Will I Be Volunteering?

Yayasan Widya Guna, established in 2006 by Ketut Sadia and Gill Rijnenberg, is a formally recognized non-profit organization in Indonesia. The foundation opened with a vision to make a difference in the lives of Balinese children facing various challenges.

Yayasan Widya Guna has evolved into a haven where Balinese children can embark on a promising journey in life. We extend our support to orphans, disabled youth, and other children in need of a helping hand, providing them with the opportunity to access quality education and fostering independence and responsibility for their future. Beyond education, the foundation offers housing, regular meals, and a safety net for those who require it.

Your Role

Volunteers in special needs programs play a crucial and compassionate role in supporting individuals with disabilities by providing encouragement, assistance, and companionship. They help facilitate a variety of activities, ensuring that participants feel included, engaged, and valued in a safe and welcoming environment. Working closely with program staff, volunteers assist in educational, recreational, and therapeutic sessions, offering one-on-one support when necessary.

Their responsibilities may include helping with mobility, communication, and daily life skills, as well as fostering social interaction and emotional well-being. Additionally, volunteers may assist with organizing events, supervising group activities, and creating adaptive experiences that cater to individual needs.

Through patience, understanding, and dedication, volunteers contribute to the personal growth, independence, and confidence of individuals with special needs, helping them develop essential skills and build meaningful relationships.

Their efforts not only enhance the quality of life for participants but also create a more inclusive and supportive community, making a lasting impact on both individuals and society as a whole.

Typical Day

You will be volunteering at the schools of children with special needs from Monday to Friday starting at 09.00 am to 15.00 p.m. Their activities are divided into 2 sessions, namely morning and afternoon activities.

Their morning activities do environmental cleaning before entering class, gymnastics, learning in class, sports, gardening and also cooking. While the afternoon activities are swimming, painting class, music class, computer class, making crafts, Balinese dancing, yoga and cleaning activities.