The weltwärts Volunteering Program at the Indian Institute of Youth Welfare (IIYW), Nagpur, is part of a unique international exchange initiative supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Under this program, young volunteers from Germany travel to India to contribute meaningfully to IIYW’s grassroots development projects while gaining cross-cultural exposure and life-changing experiences.

Volunteers typically stay for 6 to 8 months, working closely with local communities and IIYW teams in areas such as education, women empowerment, environment, health, and youth development.

Objectives

• To promote global understanding, solidarity, and civic engagement

• To offer young Germans firsthand experience in development cooperation

• To enhance IIYW’s local initiatives through youth participation and intercultural exchange

• To foster a spirit of mutual learning between German volunteers and Indian communities

What Volunteers Do

Volunteers are placed across various IIYW programs depending on their interests and skills. Their activities may include:

• Assisting in educational and creative workshops with children and youth

• Supporting women’s empowerment projects, including vocational training and awareness sessions

• Participating in environmental and sustainability campaigns, such as tree planting or waste management

• Contributing to health and hygiene awareness in rural and urban communities

• Assisting with documentation, communication, and social media for NGO outreach

Living and Working Conditions

• Volunteers live either on-site or with host families near IIYW’s campus in Nagpur

• Basic accommodation and vegetarian meals are provided

• IIYW offers language and cultural orientation, ongoing mentorship, and emotional support

• Volunteers work approximately 30–35 hours per week, with weekends mostly free for cultural immersion and local exploration

Benefits for Volunteers

• Deep engagement in social development work

• Real-life exposure to Indian culture, language, and traditions

• Opportunity to develop intercultural skills, leadership, and independence

• Strong relationships with local teams and communities

• A chance to contribute meaningfully while shaping your global perspective

Impact

• Over the years, dozens of weltwärts volunteers have contributed to IIYW’s mission

• German volunteers have brought new ideas, skills, and energy into local projects

• The program fosters long-term partnerships and mutual respect between India and Germany

Partner Information

IIYW is a certified weltwärts hosting organization, working with German sending organizations who handle volunteer selection, funding, and travel logistics. We ensure the volunteers are engaged in safe, inclusive, and purpose-driven roles during their time in India.