Description

The program begins with a two-week intensive Spanish course with local Spanish teachers in a private language school. Candidates will then volunteer for 4 hours a day in a local organization in their chosen field. Part of the application process is a screening phone interview to ensure that candidates are placed in the Sector that best corresponds to them. We can usually guarantee placement as the program is not competitive and we place year-round, starting the first Monday of each month.

Participation in this program will massively upgrade your Resume and provide the ability to become fluent in Spanish. All candidates have a Mexican Supervisor at their volunteer assignments, plus a local Volunteer Advisor, fluent in Spanish and English, living in Oaxaca. This is a fairly customized program and process, with anywhere from 3 to 10 candidates starting programs each month. Housing is your own room in a shared apartment or guesthouse.

This volunteer position is based at a mediation center, which offers an alternative solution for resolving conflicts. This is a voluntary, confidential and free service where a mediator is assigned to help the two parties in their conflict. Volunteers will help with general office work, spending time with local mediators and sometimes observing the mediation process. It is suggested that interns do research of the U.S. mediation process prior to arrival.

Highlights

** The amount of time you choose to volunteer is flexible, with program lengths ranging from 1 to 12 months.
** Extensive Pre-Departure Orientation and counseling
** You will be met on arrival in Oaxaca, and taken directly to your accommodation.
** Program and city Orientation provided
** 2 weeks, 4 hours a day of intensive Spanish language classes
** Excursions are included during your intensive Spanish course.
** Accommodation in a shared apartment or guesthouse
** Volunteer assignments are for 4 hours each day in a local organization, assisting and working with the local people. You will gain real, international experience to add to your resume.
** The Adelante Director in Oaxaca is English speaking and is available to you for support, assistance and in many other ways should you need it.

Qualifications

Program candidates should be 18 or older and possess a desire to learn about and live in another culture. Candidates should be enrolled in a University or have already graduated.

Experience and knowledge of mediation will be helpful. Must have an advanced level of Spanish.

Languages

• Spanish

Cost in US$:

From USD 2,345 to USD 5,545 for 1-6 months, plus USD 150 non-refundable application fee.

Cost Includes:

• Excursions
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Language instruction
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

* Pre-departure interview, written materials and counseling and assistance as needed
* Airport pickup on arrival
* Housing for duration of program - own private room in a shared apartment
* 2 weeks of intensive Spanish language classes
* Some excursions included during first 2 weeks.
* Volunteer placement in chosen sector
* English speaking staff in-country and in the USA for support if needed

Experience Required

yes

Experience and knowledge of mediation will be helpful. Must have an advanced level of Spanish.

Volunteer Types

• Community Development
• Law
• Legal Aide
• Office Work

Typical Volunteer

Candidates are independent-minded individuals looking to upgrade their resumes and improve their Spanish language skills through language and cultural immersion. Flexibility, open-mindedness and a desire to experience another culture are necessary attributes.

Age Range

18 or older

This Program is open to

American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Apartment/Flat
• Other

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Application Process Involves

• Phone/Video Interview
• Resume
• Written Application
• Letters of Reference