Description

The community center does not only give lunch to more than 100 people every day, but it also has a distribution kitchen (like a food bank) that allows families to take food home with them once or twice a week so that they can prepare supper and eat with their families.

The community center is the head office of some business ventures - a bakery and a textile center. It also gives training to adults and after-school support and English classes for children.

It is a very important space for the neighborhood as it supports the whole community.

Volunteer tasks:

Lots of people work in the kitchen but there is never enough help and the volunteer's collaboration is crucial.

The extra hand lent by volunteers is always welcome in the kitchen, helping to prepare lunch and learning the secrets of traditional Argentinean food. Also volunteers help serve the food and drink and collect the plates.

The people who work in the different areas of the community center have lunch in the center every day and so volunteers have the to opportunity to mix with the locals and practice speaking Spanish not only with the people who work in the kitchen but with everyone who comes to eat. Volunteers will not only help the people who lunch in the center but also many school children from the area.

Highlights

Voluntario Global's balance of working and living in South America make it one of the most unique experiences around. Volunteers are able to enjoy first-hand the exciting Latin culture, learn Spanish and develop important skills for the future. All volunteers have the opportunity to live in the central house on Avenida de Mayo, in the heart of Buenos Aires, or with a "porteño" (Buenos Aires local) in order to get an authentic Argentinean experience.

Being based in the Argentinean capital allows volunteers to maximize their free time in the city. Whether it's a visit to a local tango club, a day trip to Uruguay or an excursion to the stunning Iguazú Falls, there is plenty to do and see. With a diverse community of volunteers and a well-organized team, there are often evenings out, allowing everyone to taste Buenos Aires' vibrant nightlife. To help you get around the city with ease, Spanish lessons can be had at very reasonable rates through VG.

The donations requested by the organization are both crucial to its functioning and minimal, with all support either going to local communities or the maintenance of the organization.

Qualifications

Spanish level required: Basic (A1- A2).
Minimum stay: 4 weeks

Key Information:
The kitchen is the best place to learn Spanish. You learn while cooking and in a relaxed and fun way. The most important thing is to show an interest in helping and learning.

The cooks spend many hours in the kitchen and at times feel that they are only useful in this particular area. The presence of volunteers and the power to teach them Spanish makes the cooks feel very happy that they can help and be part of a cultural exchange.

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

USD 180-320 (4-12 weeks)

Cost Includes:

• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

* Coordination and assistance throughout the application process.
* Pre-departure information pack
* Donation to the project
* Orientation meeting
* On-site training
* Follow-up and assistance througout the placement
* Volunteer handbook + map and information about the city
* Support staff in Buenos Aires
* Emergency contact list
* 24/7 contact number

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

• Community Development
• Community Organizing
• Cooking
• Food
• Nutrition
• Volunteering

Typical Volunteer

* Listens carefully and shows respect to the people they meet and everything around them * Does not pass judgment on what is seen, as they realize there is much to learn about how people live in difficult circumstances * Acknowledges that every culture is unique, and their customs and traditions must be respected * Works in a team in order to promote open communication and a feeling of solidarity among the people they are working with * Understands that being present is a gift and a privilege; that humble people give openly and ultimately receive more than they give * Learns to embrace and love the neighborhood people as their own family

Age Range

18+

This Program is open to

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

Typical Living Arrangements

• Apartment/Flat
• Guest House
• Independent living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Written Application

Voluntario Global's Mission Statement

We are committed to working alongside locally-run organizations to encourage sustainable development in the community. We aim to affect positive change through both volunteer programs and donations. Our ultimate goal is to enhance people's capability to create bonds of cooperation, tolerance and friendship, which will lead to cultural integration and most importantly, mutual respect.

Year Founded

2005