I friend of mine volunteered in an orphanage in South Africa. She said it was one of the most rewarding experiences. While she was there a new born baby was brought into the orphanage after being abandoned in the bushes! She could not expalin her feelings for this child. She went with a company called Voluntours. They are based in SA so they offer a really hands-on and personal experience. See their website at www.voluntours.co.za