Description

Around 40 children and adolescents have found a new home in three small houses outside the city of Buenos Aires. Each one has a different background: kids who have been abandoned by their parents, others whose parents have been imprisoned or are in rehabilitation for psychological problems. Some of the children are HIV positive. Many of them have behavioral disorders. Most importantly though, all of them are in need of help.

The orphanages allow the children to learn to love and give them the attention their own families cannot. Each home houses around 15 children and two people taking care of them at a time. They are responsible for the cleaning and taking care of the children. They work 12 hours a week and help in many different areas is always needed.

Almost all the kids come from poor areas and have suffered poverty, violence, mistreatment and the effects of drug abuse. There is little stability in their lives.

Volunteers' Tasks:
* Helping organize toys
* Helping prepare meals
* Laying the table for the children
* Helping feed the younger children
* Helping clean up, clearing the dining room and kitchen
* Picking up kids from school or kindergarten
* Putting the kids to bed
* Taking younger kids to the park (with permission of one of the coordinators)

If the volunteer is fluent in Spanish, they can help older kids with their homework. If they have basic Spanish, they can play with and look after toddlers.

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: Intermediate (B1-B2)
Minimum stay: 4 weeks

Key Information:
The kids call their caretakers "tias or tios" (aunts or uncles). This helps create a warm family atmosphere for the children. It's important to remember that in Argentina we do not say "orphanage," we say "hogar" because for the children a "home" is where they all live together as a family, while an "orphanage" is a place they want to leave.

Volunteers should not lend the children any gadgets like phones, cameras etc., just in case.

Most importantly, volunteers should use their initiative and not be afraid of speaking Spanish even if they think it's not correct, that's the only way to learn!

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

USD180 - USD320 (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

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

21-35

This Program is open to

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

Typical Living Arrangements

• Apartment/Flat
• Guest House
• Home-stays
• 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