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Volunteer in Bolivia by helping the street children of Santa Cruz

The Children's Home is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping street children reintegrate into society. Each child receives accommodation, food, education, and health care, social and psychological support.

Equally importantly, the staff and the volunteers play a vital role in the child's development by providing love and attention giving the children self-respect and confidence allowing them to find their rightful place in society.

There are 400 children in the home, aged from 0 to 18. There are several buildings in "the village" including a day nursery, a school, a single mothers' institution, a house for teenage girls, a house for teenage boys, a baking business, a carpentry and a dressmaking business.

Volunteers are always welcome to assist in every area of the home, giving you the opportunity to have a varied and fulfilling experience.

There are opportunities to volunteer at the home from 2 weeks to 1 year. For all placements of 4 weeks and above, there are 10 Spanish lessons included, with the opportunity to extend these lessons if you wish.

When volunteering at the Children's Home, you are sure to have a busy and rewarding experience. There are opportunities to work in the nursery and the 'village' with different age children and depending on your skills and aspirations, your exact working schedule will be arranged with the staff when you first arrive. Expect to work approximately 5 - 8 hours a day, Monday to Friday. There are often special events that take place during the weekends, with which you may be involved.

Flexibility is crucial as your responsibilities are wide and varied. Teaching English is a regular activity you'll be asked to assist with, but expect to get involved with workshops such as cooking, music, dancing, crafts or even carpentry. A healthy body is a key component to a child's development, so there are regular sports activities to help with.

You may also be asked to assist with off-site activities, such as non-formal education with street children, or simply taking children to the doctor or dentist.

Don't forget that you need to complete your 10 Spanish lessons when you first arrive. Your Spanish will naturally improve, however, if you are keen, you can book more formal Spanish lessons with our Spanish teacher - Blanca De Callau.

Duration

Minimum duration 2 weeks - maximum duration 1 year

Start Dates

You can join the programme every Monday throughout the year

Requirements

- Minimum age 18yrs
- Spanish language skills are not required for this project, but any Spanish you speak will enhance your experience. Remember that Spanish lessons are included in the programme.
- There are no specific skills required, just a genuine interest to help children to learn.
- An open mind and an ability to show initiative are the best attributes you can posses.
- International volunteers are welcome