Professional Volunteering
Share your clinical expertise, mentor future therapists, and make a sustainable impact in rural India.
Role of North American Supervisors
Since 2015, Handi-Care Intl. (HCI) has been sending licensed Canadian and American Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, and Speech-Language Pathologists to our partner facility, Amar Seva Sangam (ASSA) in Tamil Nadu, India.
As a professional volunteer, you will act as a mentor, educator, and coach for both local Indian therapists and visiting North American clinical students.
Core Responsibilities:
- Provide mentorship and clinical coaching to on-site therapists and students.
- Assist in capacity building and developing sustainable intervention approaches.
- Help bridge cultural and clinical knowledge gaps for North American students.
- Input on student evaluations alongside the local lead supervisors.
Note: North American OTs, PTs, and SLPs are not required to register with the licensing body in India to participate in this supportive role.
Logistics & FAQ
What is expected of me financially?
Unlike clinical students, professional volunteers are not charged a placement fee. However, voluntary donations to Handi-Care Intl. to help cover the costs of your on-campus guest house accommodation and meals are highly welcomed.
How will communication work?
WhatsApp is the main hub for communication at ASSA. A private group chat will be established for each cluster of supervisors and students. To maintain patient privacy, no identifying client data is to be shared in these chats.
Do I need to check any documents before going?
Yes! We have an in-person orientation manual packed with specifics on travel, packing, vaccine requirements, and cultural norms.
Ready to Volunteer?
We are excited that you want to share your professional experience to help change lives! Follow the steps below to apply:
Step 1: Inquire About Openings
Contact Handi-Care Intl. at info@handicareintl.org or Dr. Krishna at dinesh.krishna@handicareintl.org to discuss placement availability for your discipline and desired dates.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Once availability is confirmed, click the button below to submit the official Professional Volunteering application. You will be required to upload a profile photo and a signed indemnity form.
Note: A valid Gmail address is required to access and submit the form. If you do not have one, please contact us at info@handicareintl.org.
Getting their / Flights
1. Flight
- Flight costs vary depending on the time of year, typically ranging from $1,200 to $2,000.
- We recommend using a travel agent, as you may be able to get better rates and additional support. You are welcome to use a local travel agent.
2. Airport Options
There are two airport options. For both options, the travel time by taxi to ASSA is approximately 3 hours.
- Fly into Trivandrum (also known as Thiruvananthapuram), Kerala.
- Fly into Madurai, Tamil Nadu.
Airport pickup will be arranged by ASSA. Further details will be provided in the Orientation Manual.
Passport and Visa
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
A valid visa is required to enter India.
Please refer to the Orientation Manual for detailed information about visa requirements and the application process.
Pre-Departure and Departure
Please check the latest Guidelines for International Travel issued by the Government of India before your departure.
Ensure that you have all the required travel documents, including your passport and valid visa.
Please check the latest entry requirements and health guidelines applicable to international travellers before your scheduled travel.
Keep copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, flight tickets, and other important documents with you.
After Arrival
Airport pickup and transportation to Amar Seva Sangam (ASSA) will be arranged as per the volunteer travel arrangements.
Please follow the arrival instructions provided by ASSA and the latest Government of India health and travel guidelines.
Further information regarding your arrival, orientation, accommodation, and other procedures will be provided in the Orientation Manual.
Health and Vaccination
Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and COVID-19.
Malaria prophylaxis and Dukoral are recommended but not mandatory. Please consult your doctor or travel health clinic for advice based on your individual circumstances.
Bring any regular medications you require during your stay.
It is also recommended to carry a basic travel medical kit, including medications for common travel-related conditions and oral rehydration salts.
If you have any personal prescriptions or emergency medications, please ensure you bring an adequate supply for the duration of your stay.
Insurance
Travel medical insurance is required for all volunteers.
Your insurance should provide coverage for medical treatment, emergencies, hospitalization, and travel-related assistance during your stay in India.
