2025 STEM CAMP VOLUNTEER FACILITATORS 

Description
The Riley Orton Foundation (ROF) invites dedicated and passionate volunteers to participate in our 2025 STEM Camps in Kisumu, Kenya. These camps aim to inspire and empower young learners aged 12–18 by enhancing their interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) and equipping them with critical life and career skills. Each camp will run for two weeks on the following 2025 dates:

• April: 14th – 25th
• August: 11th – 22nd
• November: 10th – 21st

The camps will feature hands-on activities in digital literacy, data science, programming and robotics, climate solutions, STEM games, HIV/AIDS awareness, and career mentorship. Volunteers will play a key role in guiding and supporting participants throughout the camp period.
What ROF Will Provide:

• Optional Airport Transfers: Volunteers may arrange to be picked up from Kisumu International Airport (KIS) and transported to their chosen accommodation site at their own cost. While this service is optional, it ensures a smooth transition upon arrival. For those requiring this service, we encourage all participants to arrive by 5 PM to facilitate logistics. If you anticipate a late arrival, please notify us in advance so arrangements can be made.
• Program Orientation: Upon arrival, volunteers will receive an orientation to familiarize them with the program’s objectives, logistics, and their roles.
• Meals: Lunch will be provided during the camp period.
• Internet Access: Free internet access will be available for use during the camp sessions.

What Volunteers Will Cover:

• Flights: Volunteers must book and pay for their flights to and from Kisumu International Airport (KIS).
• Entry Visas/Permits: Volunteers are responsible for obtaining the necessary travel permits or visas for Kenya.
• Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance covering health and emergencies is mandatory.
• Accommodation: Volunteers are responsible for covering their accommodation costs. ROF has identified accommodation options, such as Alabama County Lodge Hotel, located in Obambo, Kisumu, next to our project site. The lodge offers a secure and comfortable experience with both single and shared room options, a swimming pool, and proximity to local beaches on Lake Victoria for relaxation during free time. The estimated cost of accommodation is $400 (approximately 50,000 Ksh) for the two weeks.
• Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, other meals, excursions, and extended stays are the volunteer’s responsibility.
• Vaccinations: Volunteers should consult a doctor or travel clinic regarding required and recommended vaccinations and other health precautions. To ensure the safety and health of all volunteers, we recommend reviewing the Kenya Entry Requirements and Recommended Vaccines before your trip: Download File . Up-to-date information is available on the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website, Volunteers are also advised to speak with their doctor about obtaining a prescription for an antibiotic to combat food and waterborne illnesses during their stay. For additional resources and detailed health guidelines, visit the CDC’s page on Health Information for Travelers to Kenya

Responsibilities
As a volunteer, you will work closely with the ROF team to deliver a variety of activities that align with the camp’s objectives and your area of interest. Specific roles include:
      Digital Literacy

• Teach basic computer skills, including hardware and software, typing, creating slides, and spreadsheets.
• Assist learners with internet usage, such as creating and managing emails.

Guide learners in creating presentations on topics of their choice.
STEM Games

• Facilitate math puzzles and games to enhance problem-solving and critical thinking.
• Organize STEM competitions, including math questions and science quizzes.
• Help participants explore science simulations based on their interests.

Career Mentorship

• Provide inspirational talks about career exploration and development, highlighting educational requirements and pathways.
• Teach essential skills like communication, teamwork, and leadership.
• Support learners in goal setting, planning, and overcoming challenges.

Data Science

• Guide learners in creating questionnaires, administering surveys, and collecting data.
• Teach data cleaning, exploration, interpretation, and visualization.

Programming and Robotics

• Facilitate sessions on programming tools such as Blockly, Scratch, and robotics kits (e.g., VEX, Botley, Edison).
• Lead project creation and 3D printing demonstrations.

Lifeskills and mentorship sessions

• Educate learners on various topics, ranging from mental health to HIV/AIDS awareness.

Climate Solutions

• Raise awareness about climate change and its impacts.
• Explore technology-based solutions such as solar energy.

Daily and Project-Based Activities

• Facilitate daily icebreakers, energizers, and reflection sessions.
• Support learners in identifying and addressing local challenges through project-based activities.
• Help learners prepare and present their projects on the final day of camp.

Physical Activities

• ​Organize daily outdoor activities, including yoga or fun games

N/B: Optional Fundraising Opportunity:
We encourage volunteers to participate in optional fundraising initiatives to support our STEM education programs. Funds raised will help expand and sustain these impactful camps. Volunteers interested in fundraising can reach out for guidance.
Qualifications
We are seeking volunteers with different skills and attributes, including;

• Strong knowledge of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) subjects to facilitate interactive learning.
• Ability to inspire and guide learners in career development and life skills.
• A passion for engaging learners through hands-on activities and problem-solving.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to connect with diverse participants.
• A willingness to collaborate with the ROF team and other volunteers and adapt to dynamic situations.

Other /Optional skills:
Experience in yoga, physical fitness, or organizing fun activities is an added advantage.
Volunteers are encouraged to indicate their area of interest (e.g., Digital Literacy, Data Science, Programming & Robotics, Career Mentorship, life skills, Climate Solutions, or Physical Activities) and the camp dates they are available to participate. This helps us allocate roles effectively and tailor the program to the volunteers' strengths and expertise.
NB: customized trips are available throughout the year. Contact [email protected] to plan your trip