Connect with Local Life: Authentic Village Experiences in Jaipur

Savista invites volunteers to participate in three areas of its work:

Community outreach programmes: these mainly involve working with rural schoolchildren in the 11-18 years age group;
Organic farming activities: Savista engages in organic farming for its own needs; this work needs to be constantly upgraded and fine tuned;
Participate in Savita’s social media efforts.

Interested applicants are invited to get in touch with us. They are expected to submit a short proposal outlining their contribution. Those whose proposal meets the approval of the Savista team would be subsidised for their stay to the tune of 50 percent of their normal boarding and lodging charges

FAQs

Q1: What do you mean by “community integration” at Savista?

Answer: At Savista, community integration takes several forms. We employ our staff from the local village, access repair and maintenance services and many of our required products locally, offer free access to our water and chemical-free grass to households that require them, and welcome local schools looking for space for sports related activities for their children. Once a year, we invite all schoolchildren and teachers for a feast at Savista.
Community integration also includes volunteering in local school outreach. This form of volunteering is automatically constrained by the fact that Hindi is the sole language of communication in this region, and English language skills are minimal. Therefore, for those without a working knowledge of Hindi, activities that favour visual, non-verbal interactions are preferable. Examples include martial arts, gymnastics, sports, dance, art, craft ( e.g., origami, puppet making or puppeteering, ventriloquy, etc. ). Also, volunteering does not have to be extended. Even just offering a few hours contribution - especially in the case of a dance performance, or puppet show - would be valued by the children. But this would need to be arranged in advance, to suit school timings and time tables.

Q2: Are these community experiences ethical and respectful to the locals?

Answer: The community experience is an unique opportunity for the guests to get to know about local culture and it is totally ethical and respectful towards the locals

Q3: Do I need to book these experiences in advance?

Answer: Yes, participation requires advance planning. Interested individuals must submit a proposal, and once approved by Savista, their involvement is confirmed. Any extended stay at Savista with a view to volunteering requires a detailed proposal that will be assessed for its suitability.
If you are a guest who wishes to experience a brief interaction by way of a performance/demonstration of a specialised skill in one of the schools, you could let us know and we will ascertain with the school about whether it can be fitted into the school's schedule.

Q4: Can I support local artisans or communities during my visit?

Answer: Yes, you can support local artisans by buying directly from them. Where the local community is concerned, offering to teach a skill is a small way to show support. We do not encourage offering money.

Q5: Can guests contribute their own skills or crafts?

Answer: Absolutely. We welcome volunteers who submit proposals showcasing their unique skills and ideas for our programs.