Ghana is rich with the traditions of West African culture. The clan system thrives and works in parallel with the democratically elected government. Traditional West African music, religious drumming, and dancing are also common in Ghana. Ghanaians are proud of their history and culture and many see conversing with volunteers as a great opportunity to break down stereotypes about West Africa.
VOLTA REGION
The Volta Region, the homeland of the Ewe people, is one of Ghana’s most picturesque areas. A variety of environments can be found in the region, including bustling cities as well as more typical rural villages and terraced farms. The region also includes several small farming and fishing villages along with remnants of Ghana’s complex and dark past, such as old slave forts. The openness and laid-back attitude of Ghanaians offers teens an opportunity to get to know the local people in a comfortable setting.
THE CROSS-CULTURAL SOLUTIONS EXPERIENCE IN THE VOLTA REGION
The CCS Teen Volunteer Abroad program is specifically designed to provide a safe and secure international volunteering experience for teens aged 15-17 years old. Learn more about the program components in the Volta Region:
Volunteer Work: CCS works with several community-led projects in the Volta Region. The volunteer work on Teen Volunteer Abroad programs is always a group-based project, designed to be completed within the program dates. These projects may include beautifying or painting school walls, creating arts & crafts in a local school, or participating in recreational activities with the community.
Cultural & Learning Activities: These activities may include an in-depth orientation, insightful discussions with staff and local experts on cultural norms, guest speakers, excursions, and special events. Guest speakers may include a local practitioner of herbal medicine or the Director of the Center of National Culture. Excursions may include guided walks to Wli Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in Africa, and special events may include a performance of traditional drumming or dancing.
Free Time: There will be time in the afternoons and evenings to rest and relax in the CCS Home-Base with fellow teen volunteers. CCS also arranges optional, staff-accompanied activities to explore the community and culture. The groups are supported and supervised by CCS in-country staff at all times. The most common free time activities include: trips to local markets, walks around the local community, and daily trips to the internet café.
Home-Base in Ghana: The Ghana Home-Base includes two adjacent compounds located in a quiet neighborhood about a 10 minute walk from the town center. During the Teen Volunteer Abroad program, only participating teens will occupy the Home-Base. Typically, there are four volunteers per bedroom—with bedrooms separated by gender—and basic amenities such as linens and running water are provided. Toilets are western style and there are standing showers in all the bathrooms. Volunteer meals are provided by local cooks and include tastings of traditional Ghanaian dishes such as fufu (a mash of plantains and cassava), and dishes of chicken and vegetables or rice.
Transportation to and from your volunteer placement and any Cultural & Learning Activity is provided by CCS’ licensed drivers. Local CCS staff helps facilitate your volunteer experience and are always available to handle any questions that may arise. Learn more about the in-country staff in Ghana.
