VACorps Program Policies

At VACorps, we’re committed to creating a safe, respectful, and enriching experience for everyone in the program. To help ensure things run smoothly, we ask all participants to follow the policies below throughout their time with us. These guidelines are here to protect your well-being, support your internship, and maintain a positive community environment. Not following them may result in disciplinary action, including removal from the program.

1. Alcohol Consumption

If you’re 18 or older—the legal drinking age in South Africa—you may consume alcohol in moderation. However, excessive drinking, intoxication, or behavior that puts yourself or others at risk isn’t acceptable and may lead to consequences.

2. Illegal Substances, Prescription Drugs, and Vaping

The use, possession, or distribution of illegal drugs is not allowed at any point during the program. This includes marijuana, which is still illegal in South Africa.

Prescription medications must be taken only as directed by a medical professional. Misusing them, sharing them with others, or taking them in any way not prescribed is both dangerous and illegal.

Vaping and tobacco use are not allowed indoors at any VACorps housing or shared spaces. If you do smoke or vape, please make sure you’re doing so in accordance with local laws and designated smoking areas.

3. Honest Representation

When you apply to VACorps, we trust that the information you give us—about your background, experience, and personality—is honest and accurate. This helps us make the best placement for you and supports a good fit between you, your internship site, and the VACorps community.

4. South African Law

As a visitor in South Africa, you are expected to follow all local laws during your stay. If you are arrested, charged, or detained by the police, VACorps may need to review your continued participation in the program.

5. Behavior and Conduct

We expect everyone in the program to treat others with respect, act responsibly, and create a safe environment for those around them. This includes avoiding aggressive, reckless, inappropriate, or harmful behavior of any kind.

Behavior that causes discomfort, distress, or makes others feel unsafe—whether intentional or not— may result in disciplinary action being taken.

6. Sexual Conduct and Harassment

Sexual relationships—whether with someone inside or outside of the program—must be consensual, respectful, and handled with maturity. Clear personal boundaries should always be maintained.

Sexual harassment of any kind is never acceptable. This includes unwanted advances, inappropriate comments or behavior, or anything that creates an uncomfortable environment.

Sexual relationships with minors is against the law, and prohibited.

7. Professionalism at Your Internship

We expect you to maintain a professional attitude at your internship site. This means being reliable, showing up on time, communicating respectfully, and following the expectations of your host organization. Personal relationships with supervisors or colleagues should remain appropriate and professional.

8. Representing VACorps

While you’re part of the program, your actions reflect not just on you but on VACorps too. We ask that you avoid behavior—either in person or online—that could harm the reputation of the program, our staff, or our partner organizations.

9. Visits to Low-Income Areas

If you plan to visit a township or low-income area outside of a supervised activity, you’ll need to be accompanied by a registered guide. For safety reasons, solo visits are not permitted.

10. Vehicle Use

For your safety, participants are not allowed to operate or ride motorcycles, scooters, quad bikes, or ATVs during the program.

11. Health and Well-being

If it appears that you are experiencing a significant physical or mental health issue, VACorps may consult a qualified medical professional to ensure your safety and the well-being of the group. You are expected to follow any medical advice or treatment recommendations provided. In severe cases—such as when a participant is deemed a danger to themselves or others, or found to be mentally unfit—VACorps may act on professional advice to initiate involuntary psychiatric assessment or admission, in accordance with South African law. If appropriate, a parent or guardian will be informed. Should the medical recommendation indicate that continued participation is unsafe or unsuitable, VACorps reserves the right to withdraw the participant from the program.

Disciplinary Process

If a participant breaks one of the above policies, VACorps Directors will review the situation and determine the best course of action. Depending on the severity and circumstances, outcomes may include a verbal warning, a written warning, or removal from the program.

Please note that if you’re dismissed from the program, you won’t be entitled to refunds for tuition, housing, travel, or other related expenses.

By joining VACorps, you’re agreeing to follow these policies and help create a supportive, safe, and positive environment for everyone in the program.