We believe that some of our greatest resources lie within the knowledge of others. Any skills or ideas you have to achieve our mission are welcome.
How to Apply
Volunteer opportunities are available within our established programs, but we are also open to proposals for new classes, workshops, research, health clinics, psychoeducational classes, etc. For the safety of our clients, we ask health volunteers to only provide services they are certified to offer in their home country.
If you are interested in working with us, please email our Human Resource, Bona Aline, with your attached resume for more information. In your email, please include when and how long you plan to stay and in which programs you would like to be involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about volunteering or the organization? Feel free to email us any questions you have, but in the meantime, you can read our FAQs.
Does HOCW provide accommodation for volunteers?
HOCW does not currently have a dedicated volunteer house. However, volunteers who need accommodation during their stay can contact us by email. We can discuss suitable accommodation options and make arrangements based on availability, the length of your stay, and your needs. We recommend contacting us before your arrival so there is enough time to make the necessary arrangements.
Where are HOCW’s activities located?
HOCW operates from three locations, all within easy walking distance of each other. These spaces allow us to provide a variety of educational, livelihood, health, and youth programs.
Our main location hosts most of our activities, including computer and English classes, hairdressing, tailoring, craft activities, the library, and the Citizen Restaurant, which provides meals for our staff.
A second location, about a one-minute walk from the main location, is home to a small farmers’ market and a community clinic. The farmers’ market provides a space for local farmers to sell their produce, while the clinic offers basic health services to the community.
Our third location, about a 10-minute walk from the other two, is mainly used for youth activities and programs.
We also have activities at locations outside these three main sites. The ECD Centre is about a five-minute walk away, while our GBD Shelter, a nearby shelter providing a safe and supportive space for survivors of violence, is located close to our main facilities and includes access to a clinic and a small farmers’ market. Our agriculture collective in NAKAWUKA is approximately 45 minutes away by car.
Together, these locations enable HOCW to support children, women, and families across generations, connecting education, health and protection, skills development, livelihoods, and youth empowerment to build safer, stronger, and more sustainable futures.
Where is Ndejje Central Zone?
Ndejje Central Zone is a small village within Ndejje Parish 12 km south of Kampala. Please note, Ndejje Central Zone is different from the town of Ndejje that lies north of Kampala.
Does HOCW have power and water?
HOCW has access to electricity, running water, and internet connectivity. As our community has become increasingly urbanized, these essential services are generally reliable, although we may still experience occasional short power outages.
What is the food like?
The food at HOCW is delicious and healthy. Most of the food is fresh, unprocessed, and local, and a typical meal includes a carb, a protein, vegetables, and fruit. Any dietary concerns can be accommodated.
What can I do in my free time?
There are plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the surrounding area. Kampala, with its many restaurants, coffee shops, shopping centres, and cultural attractions, is approximately 30 minutes from Ndejje by public transport.
Nearby Lubowa is also easily accessible and offers coffee shops, restaurants, a gym, banks, grocery stores, and other everyday services. With HOCW activities generally taking place during the week, weekends provide a good opportunity to explore Kampala, discover other parts of Uganda, or travel within East Africa.
What programs does HOCW offer?
HOCW runs a range of programs that support education, skills development, livelihoods, health, and youth development. These include computer and English classes, tailoring, hairdressing, crafts, library services, youth activities, agricultural projects, and support for local farmers and community groups, etc.
Can visitors or volunteers participate in HOCW activities?
Yes. Volunteers and visitors are welcome to learn about our work and, where appropriate, take part in our activities. The type of involvement depends on your skills, interests, and the needs of our programs. We encourage anyone interested in volunteering to contact us in advance so we can discuss available opportunities.
Can I volunteer with HOCW for a short period?
Yes. We welcome both short-term and longer-term volunteers, depending on our current needs and available opportunities. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us by email with information about your availability, skills, and areas of interest.
How can I support HOCW?
There are many ways to support HOCW. You can volunteer your time and skills, support one of our community programs, contribute resources, or share your knowledge and ideas. We welcome people and organizations who are interested in working with us to support our miss
Volunteer Resources
While we are available to answer any questions you have, there are ample resources to learn more about the East African Refugee Crisis, Uganda, volunteering at HOCW, and working with refugee populations. To receive a list of resources, email us for access to our Volunteer Handbook.