Friends From Ireland are a group of people from all walks of life who take part in community building projects in Africa. We are a non-profit organisation and pride ourselves on sourcing materials, and labour, from within and around the communities we work in. We currently have projects in Kenya, Namibia and Lesotho. Our projects involve lots of “get stuck in” attitude, determination and team effort. Our volunteers raise funding and participate in the projects themselves. They have come from all parts of Ireland and Europe and from diverse backgrounds. Each project sees new volunteers joining some who have already been away with us. All are welcome once they have no fear of work. Age is not a factor once you are healthy and willing to work in a team. There is work for everyone and previous building experience, although a plus, is not required. F.F.I. Projects are challenging and volunteers should be in possession of an adventurous spirit. If you don’t have one when you leave be aware you will have one when you come back
We have volunteers that are Bricklayers, Bankers, Childcare Workers, Carpenters, Civil Engineers, Financial Consultants, Archaeologists, Students, Secretaries, Publicans, Gardai, IT Consultants, Builders, Pharmacists, Teachers, Insurance Brokers, Doctors, Solicitors, Travel Agents, Nurses, Accountants and many more. Some are retired, some are in training, some are in college, some are married, some have kids, some work, others don’t, and some are just on a break. But all of them are volunteers and have given their time to fund-raise and ensure the success of each project. Each project brings new challenges, but none can compare with the daily challenges that face the people of the communities we work in. If you have ever thought about getting involved, but thought that you had nothing to offer in the way of building experience, think again. There is work for everyone willing to do it.
Many of our projects involve camping adjacent to our project sites and will be a true wilderness experience. It you relish a challenge, a real challenge, then you will be in good company.
