Description

Bolivia is one of the poorest and least developed countries in Latin America. Orphanages and other similar establishments lack the funds required to provide more than a basic level of care, which is why Projects Abroad volunteers have such an important role to play.

You can gain international work experience by volunteering abroad with children in Bolivia whatever your age, abilities or level of experience. Whether you are on a gap year - or even a gap month - from further education, or are coming to us during a vacation from work, a career break, or during your retirement. All we ask is that you have enthusiasm for and a commitment to the work, the staff team and the children!

Volunteering Abroad with Orphans and Special Needs Children

Projects Abroad volunteers work in several orphanages and day care centers in Bolivia, all located in the Cochabamba area. Some projects work with just boys or girls while other homes have children with mental and physical disabilities. We also have care projects working with a range of ages from babies and toddlers to teenagers. Please let us know of any preferences you may have so we can match you to a suitable placement.

Volunteers often work in pairs at a placement, meaning you can share ideas and perhaps take some of the children out on a trip. Our staff in the Cochabamba office are always happy to help you with new ideas and materials. A member of staff at your placement will act as your general supervisor and be available for help and advice.

We also have a community soccer and social care project in Bolivia which combines coaching soccer with a variety of care work.

Highlights

In whichever volunteer care project in Bolivia you find yourself, you need to be ready for a challenge. Many of the children are desperate for attention and on some placements there are children who have psychological or physical health problems, thus need a great deal of special attention.

Your main areas of work will vary depending on the age of the children you are working with. You may be feeding, bathing and generally looking after babies and toddlers. Or, you may be helping with homework, music, art and sports - really anything you're interested in. On many placements, you'll also need to teach life skills like the importance of hygiene, self-discipline and good communication.

Some children don't go to school, so basic literacy lessons in Spanish are also welcomed. Let us know beforehand if you can help in this area.

At some of the orphanages there is also a need for help with building and fixing up garden areas, buildings and playgrounds. Volunteers have been getting together once or twice a week to work on such community projects, painting walls in the orphanages, creating a garden or helping with clearing up and rebuilding.

Qualifications

No qualifications or experience required.

Minimum Education

High School

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Please go to our website for prices.

Cost Includes:

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

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

Open-minded with a desire to travel.

Age Range

16-70

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Apartment/Flat
• Group living
• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

10 days

Post Services Include

• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

Projects Abroad's Mission Statement

As part of the global economy, Projects Abroad helps create local employment wherever we send volunteers. Employing local staff overseas and using their talents and knowledge is important to us. This local knowledge and support enables the organization to channel the skills of the volunteers from more affluent countries to regions around the world where they are needed. Volunteers also learn from their placements and the people they meet, and they gain experience in a chosen field. In the 21st century, we believe this mutual respect is what cultural exchange is all about.

Year Founded

1992