I've had experience with two projects in Kenya- the 'building homes' and 'community work' in Nakuru.
Unfortunately i-to-i are not interested in actually doing something ethical for these communities, but making money out of the desire for good-willed people to help others. I am not one for complaining but I feel that i-to-i's failure to be ethical should be documented. None of the massive cost that is paid to do projects go to the placements and although this was made clear to us (after booking) before we went, I am still not satisfied with the explanation of where the fees went.
If you are thinking of booking though STA Travel, don't. They will say anything to get a sale, including a whole speal about how the fees DO go to your project, how insurance IS included (it's not anymore- i-to-i withdrew it and put the prices up so we paid more without it) and even how 'even the building project includes the TEFL course' (it doesn't).
The projects we did have some super people organising them (not anything to do with i-to-i) and even encourage a trip extension or return trip without involving i-to-i (they are more than willing to help and provide support). However, I can't help but feel that these projects are desperate for the money that us vulnerable people (vulnerable only for a desire to help others) are ploughing into i-to-i- the fees I paid i-to-i for TWO weeks volunteering would have paid for TWO TEACHERS SALARIES for a YEAR in Nakuru!- sponsorship that they are so desperate for.
Myself and the three other volunteers I was with feel stung by i-to-i and sick that this money is deperately needed at the placements. I enjoyed the placement and made it what it was- no i-to-i involvement there.
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Thanks for that. i to i keep sending me things, but I don't have the money and disagree with paying loads of money to volunteer, it just seems wrong. There are organisations out there who don't do that but you have to look for them, volunteering is big business now sadly.
lobourse 08.11.2007 09:45
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Advantages: glossy brochure with nice, inspiring pictures, beautiful countries Disadvantages: not interested in you after you book and hand over the cash
SamFord 13.11.2006 (13.11.2006)
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Review of I-to-I
Advantages: Friendly agency with a personal touch, good links with placement countries and wide variety of programmes Disadvantages: some communication problems over what was included in my prize (a minor quibble)
blinderben 14.02.2001 ·
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful
Review of I-to-I
Advantages: glossy brochure with nice, inspiring pictures, beautiful countries Disadvantages: not interested in you after you book and hand over the cash
SamFord 13.11.2006 (13.11.2006)
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful
Review of I-to-I
Nov 8th, 2007
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