We are a non-profit organization that provides opportunities for people to serve communities in need through volunteer work. Our mission is to create a positive impact in the world by empowering individuals to give their time, skills and compassion. We work with a diverse team of volunteers from all over the world and offer a supportive, inclusive and dynamic work environment. Join us and be part of a community that is making a difference in the lives of others.
When you volunteer with ELOI, you’re not just giving your time—you’re becoming a vital part of a movement that’s changing lives. Volunteering with us offers more than just the chance to contribute to a cause; it’s an opportunity to grow, connect, and make a meaningful difference in your community.
When we come together, we’re stronger. Volunteering with ELOI means joining a community of passionate individuals who are all working toward a common goal: helping at-risk youth find success.
Volunteering with ELOI is your chance to make a real difference in the community, and it’s easier than ever to get started. Whether you have just a few hours to spare or are ready to make a long-term commitment, we have a role for you. Here’s how you can begin:
Take a look at the variety of volunteer positions we offer. From hands-on roles like event support to behind-the-scenes work, there is something for everyone.
Once your application is filled out, we will schedule an interview with you to thoroughly explain the program and our Strength-Based Approach philosophy.
With the proper training and support, you’ll begin contributing to one of our exciting initiatives. Together, we’ll make a difference, and you’ll gain experiences and skills that last a lifetime.
Dive into our monthly metrics to see the incredible progress we’re making together. From the number of visitors and volunteers to the lives we’ve touched, each figure tells a story of hope and transformation. Join us in expanding this impact even further!
Join us in linking passionate volunteers with impactful activities. Discover opportunities to make a difference exactly where your skills and enthusiasm are needed.
Our volunteer programs cater to a diverse group of participants from around the world and various life stages. Whether seeking college credit, planning a career break, or taking a volunteer vacation with family, our home-base offers a melting pot of experiences. Volunteers range from young children with their families to adventurous individuals in their 80s. We welcome groups including those aged 50 and above, families, teens, working professionals, and organized groups, ensuring an enriching and inclusive environment for all. This diversity fosters a unique, dynamic community, enhancing the volunteering experience for everyone involved.
You will be staying in the ELOI Apartment above our headquarters with a clear view of the city suburb of Ntinda and the neighboring areas. We are in a gated compound that is very safe. You will be sleeping under a mosquito net and given 3-4 meals a day breakfast, lunch and dinner or evening tea or coffee (Optional). Any other foods will be at your own expense. The daily rate for staying is $25 USD per day (7 days minimum). This includes room, meals, drinking water (bottled or boiled), Wi-Fi, transportation to projects and transportation to and from the airport (1 time each way). The apartment is self-contained, with showers of warm/cold water in the event of no running water (this sometimes happens), water will be brought in for bathing and in house use. Laundry services are available at no extra charge. You just need to notify the housekeeper about your dirty clothes, and they will be washed with our washing machines, Large Groups and groups wanting to put together packages with other requirements (i.e., additional travel, safari’s, crusades, etc.) need to contact ELOI M for rates and availability of room to stay.
In the event that your away from ELOI apartment, There are many internet cafe’s where you can either use their computers or plug in your own laptop, the cost is about $1.50 (3,000 UGS) per hour. There are also some “hot spots” around the area and in town where you can also use a laptop. Some of the places charge, others, like restaurants, won’t charge if you are eating there. There is a weekly Craft market in which to buy souvenirs or gifts at reasonable prices. You can exchange American dollars, Canadian dollars, Euros or British Pounds at the Forex Exchange Bureaus. You need to have 50’s or 100’s for the denominations to exchange. The American dollars especially need to be series 2002 or higher, new bills preferably with no marks, tears or creases in them. You can use a Visa not a MasterCard (if it has the plus symbol) in several ATM machines that will dispense Ugandan Shillings. You need to check with your local bank as to the rates used to use them. Credit Cards are not commonly used in Uganda and only a few places take them. Traveler’s checks are also very difficult to cash. Bring cash to exchange or plan on using your visa card in the ATM machines. There are many sights and things to see while you are in Uganda. If you want to take a side trip to Jinja and see the Source of the Nile or go Whitewater rafting arrangements can be made for you. Also there are safaris in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls if you want to see animals. All trips vary in price depending on the type of accommodations you may desire. We will set you up with a travel company that can help make all your arrangements.
Anything electrical must be on 240 current. If you have something that is on 110v you must also have a converter. You might also consider an adaptor for Africa (3 prong) to use in plugging in your electrical items that may not need a converter (i.e. laptops, iPods, some phones and cameras). Sunscreen and bug spray are also recommended. Your personal toiletries (shampoo, washcloth, towel), a pillow, and comfortable clothing/shoes. Shorts are not worn in the slums or in town. All pants need to be knee length as well as skirts/dresses for the women. No tube or midi tops. Bathing suits need to be modest. No see through clothing. Shoes should be comfortable and sturdy. Tennis shoes can be a bit hot for your feet and washing socks is sometimes difficult. Shoes like Tevas or Choco’s are recommended. Do not bring expensive jewelry. Uganda has lots of orange dirt, light colored clothing tends to get ruined very quickly. Wash and wear clothing is the best, especially ones with Lycra in them. Earplugs are also recommended, especially if you are a light sleeper.
As far as risks in traveling, Uganda is actually one of the safest places to travel. The country is very visitor friendly. The people here are mostly very peaceful and non-violent. The Brandt Travel guide states that Uganda is one of the safest places for tourists. We have had many volunteers come and go without any incident. It is important to take precautions, as you would anywhere, by not being alone at night.
English is common and Luganda is spoken in the city and outlying areas. Other languages are spoken and used in the communities where we work . If needed, you will have an interpreter and support of our local staff, otherwise you can get by in most places with English.
You can place international calls for about 25 cents per minute. You can buy a mobile phone here for under $50.00 and then you load airtime on your sim card and make calls or you can load airtime on any of our office phones and use it for international calls. Texting is about 10 cents per international text. You can also use an international phone that is either tri or quad band that is unlocked and just buy a local sim card and load airtime. You can use your laptop to Skype from an internet cafe and send messages from an internet cafe’ or our offices and apartment wi-fi.If you wish to receive mail while you are here you can do so. ELOI M has a post office box but know that mail service is slow and mail usually takes 2-4 weeks depending on the country of origination. Our wi-fi can only be used to make f internet calls, email exchange and any other light internet communication but strictly prohibited for heavy downloads like movies, live streaming or anything else that may consume large band width
First and foremost, it was an honor to help ELOI in the endeavor to help youth and adults in the greater Ugandan area through Christ. It was a humbling experience, and one that I will cherish for the rest of my life. At the beginning of the journey I was uncertain about the task that was before me, and yes, I put it in God’s hands and was led by Mr. Tendo Steven and his great staff throughout my stay.
I had the pleasure of working with Pastor Steven Tendo at ELOI as a volunteer. It was such an eye-opener to see how our people, especially vulnerable mothers and babies, suffer while trying to receive healthcare services with scarce resources. We went to Buwenge Healthcare center and administered vaccinations to babies, and provided antenatal and postpartum care to some mothers.
My time with ELOI was absolutely life-changing. I witnessed the remarkable difference their programs make in people's lives and were moved by their unwavering commitment to compassionate service. The genuine love and acceptance we experienced made us feel completely at home. I am thankful for the chance to serve alongside such devoted people and eagerly anticipate returning to support ELOI again.
My journey with ELOI was genuinely unforgettable. I observed directly the profound effect of their outreach in the local area and was touched by their passionate dedication to helping those in need. The kindness and welcome I encountered made me feel truly valued. I'm blessed by this opportunity to make a difference and excited about maintaining my relationship with ELOI.
My experience with ELOI was incredibly meaningful. I saw clearly the amazing work they accomplish within the community and was humbled by their tireless efforts to uplift vulnerable populations. The care and generosity I received made me feel deeply connected. I'm honored to have participated in their mission and enthusiastic about strengthening my collaboration with ELOI moving forward.
My stay with ELOI was wonderfully enriching. I personally encountered the significant influence of their ministry throughout the region and was inspired by their faithful commitment to serving marginalized communities. The friendship and openness I experienced made me feel instantly welcomed. I'm appreciative of this meaningful opportunity and determined to continue my involvement with ELOI.
My engagement with ELOI was profoundly rewarding. I discovered firsthand the extraordinary results of their initiatives in people's lives and was amazed by their devoted service to building stronger communities. The respect and grace I received made me feel like a valued partner. I'm excited about what I accomplished and committed to advancing my alliance with ELOI.
My visit with ELOI was exceptionally powerful. I learned directly about the substantial impact of their programs in transforming lives and was encouraged by their steadfast dedication to creating positive change. The compassion and fellowship I received made me feel like a long-time friend. I'm privileged to have contributed my time and passionate about continuing my support for ELOI.
My partnership with ELOI was deeply inspiring. I participated firsthand in the tremendous work they facilitate throughout the area and was motivated by their selfless commitment to empowering disadvantaged individuals. The joy and authenticity I experienced made me feel remarkably at ease. I'm fortunate to have shared in their vision and eager to deepen my connection with ELOI.
My mission with ELOI was genuinely eye-opening. I understood clearly the far-reaching influence of their efforts in the surrounding communities and was impressed by their consistent dedication to practical acts of service. The sincerity and embrace I encountered made me feel part of something bigger. I'm grateful to have contributed to their cause and hopeful about expanding my partnership with ELOI.
My time at ELOI AFRICA took my Oxford studies out of the lecture hall and into real, grassroots community development. Working alongside such dedicated local teams in Uganda showed me what sustainable impact truly looks like on the ground. It was an unforgettable experience that shaped both my professional ambitions and my worldview.
