Empower Kids in India: Help Paige Volunteer to Teach

Hello dear friends! My name is Paige, and I have been given the wonderful opportunity to volunteer in Kullu, India this fall (September-December) with the International Language Program (ILP). For three months, I will be in teaching English to young children (pre-K through 2nd grade) in both public and private schools, while also providing humanitarian aid, building friendships, and helping improve children's futures through education, connection, and compassion.

This opportunity is deeply meaningful to me. I’m graduating this August with a degree in Theatre Arts Studies, and before diving fully into the next chapter of life, I want to do something that truly matters—something that gives back. Volunteering with ILP in India gives me the chance to use my creativity, love for children, and passion for service to make a real difference.

I’ve always felt drawn to helping others, especially children, and I love using creativity, empathy, and connection to help people feel seen. With my background in Theatre Arts and my experience working with kids, I know I can bring joy, confidence, and encouragement into these classrooms. I believe education is one of the most powerful ways to build both hope and happiness—and I’m so grateful for the chance to be part of that. I know this experience will change me for the better, too.

As a teacher, I will spend about 4 hours each day of the work week with direct interaction with the kids, plus preparation time, transportation between schools, and clean up. As volunteers, we bring all of our own teaching supplies with us! Also, we will receive in-person training on how to teach the children both in the US and in India before we begin official classes.

India is a beautiful, vibrant country, but many families—especially in rural areas—face challenges that limit access to educational resources. In many public schools, children don’t have the opportunity to learn English, even though it can dramatically increase their future opportunities. I’m excited and grateful to be part of something that helps empower these kids through language, creativity, and care.

Outside the classroom, we’ll also be immersed in the local culture—exploring the Himalayas, connecting with the community, and serving in other ways, such as helping cook meals at the world’s largest free kitchen!

The total cost of the program is just under $5,000, which includes:

-Program fees

-Roundtrip Airfare

-Teaching materials (pencils, crayons, paper, glue, scissors, etc.)

-Housing and Meals

-Emergency Insurance

-In-country training and support

I’ll be flying to India in early September, and I’m hoping to raise at least $2,500 before leaving to cover my program fees and flights. Any help getting there would mean the world! Also, if you would like to donate physical teaching materials, even things that are used, such as small scissors, colorful cardstock paper, crayons, etc., please feel free to reach out!! Everyone who donates will get a personal thank-you from me, and I’d love to send updates or photos from my trip if you’d like to follow along!

Your donation is also tax deductible! International Language Programs is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization, so every donation counts and is eligible for a tax write-off.

If you'd prefer to donate directly through ILP, use this link: ilp.org/donations

Whether it's $5, $25, or anything at all, every bit helps and means so much to me. If you're not in a position to donate right now, sharing this page means the world! Thank you for being part of this journey with me!

With much love and gratitude,

Paige