Description

Volunteers will work in a home for young mothers and their children. These young girls have been sexually abused and/or exploited, come from extreme poverty and are at high social risk. The mission of the project is to break the intergenerational cycle of abuse and sexual exploitation of children in Costa Rica by providing a safe, loving, environment for at risk young mothers (age 16+) and their children. This environment will provide the resources necessary to allow these families healthy and successful participation and reintegration in society.

The home can accommodate 15 mothers and 20 or more of their children. It provides shelter, emotional support, educational and vocational development and training in parenting skills. There are four live-in house mothers, a social worker, a psychologist, two school teachers, one part-time nursery worker and two cooks on staff to provide 24-hour care and counseling. Volunteers may get involved with a variety of projects within the home. Past participants have worked with the young mothers on vocational training, parenting classes, and English lessons. It is also a possibility to focus on the children living in the home and to work with them through developmental activities, art projects, sports, etc. Volunteers should be sensitive to underprivileged populations and womens rights and be willing to reach out, build relationships and foster growth.

Highlights

Program participants will have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in Tico culture and pura vida, the relaxing way of life that has made Costa Rica famous. While volunteering in Costa Rica, you can explore the astonishing biodiversity for which this Central American country is known. Whether your interest is hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, surfing, zip-lining, exploring the cloud forest and waterfalls, or just relaxing on the beach, you will be able to combine some or all of these with your volunteer program.

Qualifications

Applications are due 3 months prior to departure. If you're submitting your application within 2 months of departure, contact us to verify availability.
* At least 18 years old
* Some educational or professional background or strong interest in community development or working with youth.
* Some projects require intermediate Spanish. Languages courses prior to the volunteer program are available for beginners.
* Eligible to receive a tourist visa to Costa Rica

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

1 Week: 795, 2 Weeks: 995, Additional Weeks: 225

Cost Includes:

• Housing
• Medical insurance
• Language instruction
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Written materials pre-departure
• Written materials abroad
• Food

Program Fees Include:

- Guaranteed volunteer placement prior to departure for Costa Rica
- Detailed placement offer (including duties, responsibilities, and other relevant information)
- Accommodation and meals
- Pre-departure orientation and detailed handbook
- Visa assistance (if needed)*
- Travel Medical Insurance
- Airport pickup and transfer to accommodation
- Arrival orientation
- Full-time local representative in Costa Rica
- 24/7 personal support and emergency number
- Certificate of completion (upon request)
- Assistance receiving service learning hours (check with your university advisor for requirements)
- Language class placement (unless otherwise noted, class prices not included in program fee)**

* Most tourist visas are valid for up to 90 days. The length of AIDE Abroad's programs depends on each participants visa allowance. All participants are responsible for ensuring their proper visa documentation for the extent of their stay. We recommend checking with your local Costa Rican consulate for the most up-to-date visa information.

**For those who need them, optional language classes are available. Language classes are a great way to be introduced to a new country and to improve your Spanish skills. Classes are held prior to the start of participants volunteer programs, and participants will be placed in a small group to receive lessons. These classes are highly recommended, especially if you are not intermediate or have not practiced your Spanish recently.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Application Process Involves

• In-Person Interview when Feasible
• Letters of Reference
• Phone/Video Interview
• Resume
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

3 months

AIDE Abroad's Mission Statement

AIDE Abroad's mission is to provide international experiences that impart professional and personal growth, develop leadership skills, and enhance intercultural competence and understanding.

Year Founded

2007