Consider international service for your spring, summer or winter break this year! Choose one- to six-week options, or
extend your service up to 24 weeks. An alternative break allows you to make a difference in the world during the school year, often while earning
academic credit. What's more, you can even engage your family and friends in
fundraising efforts to support your service contribution!
Our host organizations put you immediately to work on very meaningful projects -- providing you a glimpse into another culture in just one, two or three weeks. Consider how you might assist in these ways:
- Teach conversational English: Even if you've never formally taught a classroom subject, you can teach conversational English skills. All you need is enthusiasm and a desire to help adult and youth students. And, we'll provide you a comprehensive, user-friendly Conversational English Teaching Guide.
- Care for at-risk children: Nurture physically and mentally disabled children, some who have been abandoned, or work with "at-risk" teens. No special skills are required to play with, read to, help feed and share time with the children.
- Paint, repair and construct community buildings: Many host communities we serve need help with light construction projects, landscaping and assistance to beautify public spaces, help install playgrounds, painting and repairing classrooms, homes, clinics and more. No professional skills are required.
- Assist with health care: Medical students can sometimes provide basic services such as diabetes screenings, blood pressure checks and dental hygene instructions. Or, you might assist a heath care professional with tooth extractions, well-baby checks and pre-natal exams in a village clinic or dispensary.
These "hands on" volunteer projects give you the opportunity to learn about literacy, poverty, racism, hunger, homelessness, cultural differences and the environment through genuine ongoing development programs. At the same time, you will have the chance to journal or blog your team's experiences, share with family and friends, and learn through discussion about local issues.
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"The experience allowed me to re-assess what's truly important. These people may not have material wealth, but they have a cultural richness and a closeness that could never be bought or owned. I taught children who barely had clothes covering their bodies who were happy and laughing. Their smiles were the largest things about them. A warm smile truly transcends any language barriers and creates memories that linger long after the experience has ended."
~ Dana Starace-Nastasi, Tanzania volunteer
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