Ramadan takes place in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims worldwide observe this as a month of fasting. While fasting from dawn until sunset, Muslims refrain from consuming food, drinking and smoking. In Morocco, the most prevalent religion is Islam and around 98% of the population are practicing Muslims. The Ramadan project provides a unique opportunity for volunteers to experience Ramadan in a Muslim culture, while helping socially disadvantaged families and brightening the daily lives of the children in poor neighborhoods. Volunteer tasks include teaching English, organizing workshops on ethics and values, running sports activities, organizing local field trips and collecting food. Volunteers who wish to participate in the Ramadan project do not need to be practicing Muslims, however they are required to observe Ramadan customs while in Morocco. As this project runs during a Moroccan National Holiday period, work hours at your placement will be less, if you would like to work more hours please talk to your Morocco program coordinator once in-country.
It was an enriching experience with an elderly Volunteer who shared her experiences with us. Another American volunteer was very happy to share Ramadan and Ramadan vibes with us. And It was great to build friendships with people different than us.