Description

CENIT (Center for the Working Female Child) is a non-profit organization based in a poor section of south Quito. Founded in 1991 by the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, CENIT uses educational programs to help children from impoverished families who are forced to work at a young age. Volunteers work at a drop-in tutoring center, in an outreach program that brings the center's services to children on the streets, in and around produce markets, and with parents when possible to encourage them to have their children take advantage of CENIT´s services.

Highlights

Most volunteers will live with an Ecuadorian host family throughout their stay - an excellent way to learn about Ecuadorian life and to practice the language. EIL Ecuador's host families have a reputation for being warm and fun-loving, making it easy for you to feel right at home. Our Homestay Coordinator carefully selects our host families and is in touch with both you and the family during your stay. Your family will welcome you upon arrival and treat you as a family member.

Qualifications

Anyone 18 or older may apply, except US citizens who must be 19.

Skilled and unskilled volunteers are welcome. You must be healthy and fit enough to adapt to living and working where conditions may be strenuous and where accommodations are basic. If you are applying to work with minors or others with special needs, professional certifications and/or background record checks may also be required.

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

Program Fees Include:

* Application processing, interview and pre-departure information
* 80 hours of one-to-one Spanish class, class materials, scheduled extra curricular and class-related activities
* Orientation to volunteer work in Ecuador, visits to community service projects
* E-mail access during Spanish course
* Placement in community service project
* Ongoing support by local volunteer coordinator
* Contribution to donation fund for projects where volunteers are assigned
* Homestay with host family during Spanish course and during volunteer placement, with 3 meals a day unless other board and lodging arrangements are made
* Monthly transportation allowance during program USD 20
* Registration of visa and census if volunteer is in Ecuador for more than 6 months

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Application Process Involves

• In-Person Interview when Feasible
• Phone/Video Interview
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Resume
• Written Application

Volunteers for International Partnership's Mission Statement

Volunteers for International Partnership offers each international volunteer an opportunity to learn a culture from the inside while doing valuable community service, peer to peer, in a stimulating new environment. VIP is committed to: *Careful selection and preparation of the volunteer, host family and Host Organization. *Emphasis on the education and self-awareness gained through international community service and volunteering. *Planning the volunteer's intercultural experience to highlight enrichment from cultural differences. *Full immersion in the host culture through orientation, language training, worksite and housing selection. *Individualization of volunteer placement design to take full advantage of volunteer differences in skill, age, experience and diversity. *Effective evaluation of the experience and the Host Organization. *Strong efforts to enhance the volunteer's social adjustment to regional habits and customs. *Choosing volunteer service projects that are worthwhile, safe, meet the needs of the local community and are conducted responsibly with regard to environmental, social and local issues.