-
Flexible Schedule
|
Santa Barbara de Samana, Dominican Republic
Aldeas de Paz is completely operational and all our programs are active! We are happy to invite volunteers and interns to join us in the Dominican Republic (DR). The Corona health situation in the DR is managed successfully and precautionary measures very similar to European and international standards are in place. Traveling to and from the Dominican Republic is possible without difficulty! In the Dominican Republic there are plenty of dogs in need of being rescued, cared for and placed at a loving home. Many dogs are homeless and sick, and you often also find neglected and malnourished horses, mules and cats. It is rare that anyone cares about these animals or gives them the affection and nurturing that they need. The local Veterinary Service provides emergency veterinary services, home and finds dog lovers overseas who are willing to adopt rescued dogs! This Dog rescue project is the perfect placement for volunteers and interns. Volunteer positions are for people without a veterinary background who are dog lovers and would like to be part of a great project that takes care of the well-being of man’s best friend. By raising awareness and educating children about how animals can increase our well-being if we take care of them, you can also contribute to improving the situation in the long run. There is always a lot to do and your support is much needed to be able to continue providing care to the animals and finding new homes, especially for the dogs. You can become a part of this project by taking care of the animals, training them and assisting in maintaining the Kennels. The team also always needs experienced vets or vet students that can assist during surgeries, neutering campaigns or similar. If you are a veterinarian or veterinary student you will love this program. Volunteer placement, apprenticeship or internship You can join this program as a volunteer, apprentice or intern. As a volunteer you are free to commit any number of hours per week. That's up to you! As an apprentice or intern however you probably have to fulfill requirements set by your school or university. Please inform us of your school or university internship requirements in advance so that we can work out your personalized work plan together. Also tell us about your personal expectations and goals. We are happy to give students academic credit or provide a report outlining the learning outcomes and deliverables achieved during the placement. What to expect It is of advantage if the volunteer or intern has already worked in an animal shelter or a veterinarian clinic, is a veterinary student or a dog walker, etc. But even with little experience you will be of great help! It is important to keep in mind that the farm includes some physical work like cleaning kennels and stables and being outside. Nevertheless, the animals’ love and affection that you will be met with are worth all of the effort! Activities can include but are not limited to Caring for dogs, maintaining the kennels and taking them for a walk Developing and executing awareness rising and educational activities while improving the situation of neglected animals in the long run Supporting the veterinarians during medical treatments or operations to neuter or spay animals Support for the admission of new patients and other administrative procedures Participation in the annual castration campaign Requirements Overall there is no previous experience required to participate in the program, but of course you have to be an animal lover. A typical Animal Care & Farm Maintenance volunteer or intern has already worked in animal shelters, is a student in a veterinary school or a dog walker, etc. However, a person without any specific experience or training who just really loves animals and wants to help care for them is welcome as well. He or she needs to be enthusiastic, proactive, ready for a challenge and willing to do maintenance work. It also includes physical work like cleaning kennels and stables and being outside a lot. Nevertheless, the animals’ love and affection that you will be met with are worth all of the effort! Friendliness, commitment and patience are among significant qualities. Basic Spanish skills are helpful, but an advanced level of Spanish experience will open up more opportunities. In order to enable deeper integration into the community, we provide free Spanish classes on a weekly basis, full support and 24/7 backup. Availability This program is ongoing throughout the whole year Time Commitment A minimum time commitment of 2 weeks is required and can be extended up to one year Placement Location Las Terrenas Our Volunteer Guesthouse Apartments and our Host Family home stay The Foundation’s popular volunteer guesthouse apartments are located in the center of the seaside towns of Samaná and Las Terrenas, both scenic, laid back and peaceful towns, with friendly and easy-going Dominicans, living their life with tourism, agriculture and fishing activities, all set to the beat and rhythms of Merengue, Bachata and Salsa music. Our Volunteer Guesthouse Apartments are extremely conveniently located only a few minutes from school or the hospital, the village center and to the beaches and the Malecon, the gorgeous seaside walking promenade, where you will find a lot of restaurants, bars and shops. The villages and their surroundings are very safe and our apartments in Samana and Las Terrenas have lovely neighbors who constantly look after us. All important locations are only minutes away and it’s safe to walk at night. A shared room with three beds is the standard option. Upgrades are available for double and single room occupancy and home stay with our lovely host family. Free wifi and access to a washing machine is, of course, standard at all Aldeas de Paz facilities. Living together with volunteers from all over the world is a unique chance for cultural exchange and can be an exciting and new way of living compared to anything you’ve ever experienced before. It has certainly been a key experience in the lives of many past volunteers! Volunteers work and live together and learn how to be empathetic and considerate of others’ needs. They often share their free time, house cleaning tasks and cooking (optional). It means they also become close, develop lifelong friendships and have immense fun along the way! We feel that it is important to highlight that we have created an environment of respect and consideration. About your Placement Location The Aldeas de Paz Foundation headquarters are located in the villages of Samana but this program is located in Las Terrenas, located 35 km from Samana town center of the Samana province and peninsula in the north-eastern corner of the Dominican Republic. These villages with about 15000 inhabitants are very peaceful and safe and are constituted by a community with a strong sense of social responsibility. The people themselves consider their towns very safe, there is no more crime here than in any average small European town. The Dominican Republic's countryside as a whole is very peaceful, and certainly one of the safest regions in the Caribbean. Travel Logistics The Foundation will do everything to make sure our volunteers remain safe during their arrival and stay in the Dominican Republic. On arrival at the airport you will be welcomed by our english speaking driver who will help you personally during your transit from the airport to the bus terminal granting you peace of mind and tranquility. The driver will purchase your bus ticket while you catch the direct and comfortable bus to Samana, your placement location. Travel-time on the bus is two hours only. On arrival at the placement location, fellow volunteers and our Staff will welcome you and bring you to your accommodation. Costs & Benefits Aldeas de Paz works hard to keep the required financial contribution to an absolute minimum and to offer financial transparency by practicing an open book policy. The minimum contribution starts at €155 per week (after the second week) and includes Spanish language classes and accommodation at our fully equipped guesthouse apartments, a special program donation as well as a personal welcome service and pick-up at the airport, transfer to the bus, bus fare and free transfer to your placement location. This is included: Airport welcome service & transfer to your placement location Fully equipped Accommodation in Las Terrenas Free WiFi (50Mbps) & access to washing machine Free regular Spanish lessons throughout your placement Placement introduction, certificate & student credit Full support and 24/7 backup from local staff Information about adventure packages & in-country travel Special Offer Volunteers and interns receive free language lessons throughout their placement duration. Classes focus on developing four basic communication skills: listening, comprehension, speaking, reading and writing. Students are encouraged to speak Spanish right from the very first day, using it in typical real-life situations as soon as they step outside the classroom where learning continues as they are immersed in the Spanish language and the Dominican culture. Description Video of the program: https://youtu.be/B3WZlCBqmGQ Contact Information Project/charity name: Fundación Aldeas de Paz Address: Samana, Dominican Republic Whatsapp: +1 829 7055 123 E-Mail: mail@peacevillages.org Webpage: https://www.peacevillages.org/mexico-community-resilience/ Facebook: https://www.facebook/AldeasdePaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AldeasDePaz Twitter: https://twitter.com/AldeasDePaz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Peacevillages
Date Posted: Apr 16, 2023
-
Flexible Schedule
|
Santa Barbara de Samaná, Dominican Republic
Aldeas de Paz is completely operational and all our programs are active! We are happy to invite volunteers and interns to join us in the Dominican Republic (DR). The Corona health situation in the DR is managed successfully and precautionary measures very similar to European and international standards are in place. Traveling to and from the Dominican Republic is possible without difficulty! This opportunity will give you an insight into the running and daily routine of a hospital or a neighborhood health clinic where you can gain invaluable hands-on experience, working side by side with medical staff and fellow volunteers. You will experience the stark contrast between Western medical practice and the realities of medicine in developing countries. As the hospitals and clinics are still modernizing, there are many challenges faced and as a result you will also see medical conditions that have remained untreated and have developed to an advanced pathological stage. Therefore, this project not only provides you with responsibility, it also allows you to broaden your perspective by working at a hospital/health clinic in a developing country. Furthermore, you can gain experience in a range of different departments and activities within the hospital/health clinic, such as: emergency, pediatric, maternity (only female volunteers), diabetes, integral attention & prevention for HIV, tuberculosis and uterine cancer as well as nursing. If you are interested in working in a specific department, please let us know in advance and we will try our best to make it happen. There is also the possibility to work in the hospital pharmacy. You are welcome to also work on our other projects in combination with the medical program. Volunteer placement, apprenticeship or internship You can join this program as a volunteer, apprentice or intern. As a volunteer you are free to commit any number of hours per week. That's up to you! As an apprentice or intern however you probably have to fulfill requirements set by your school or university. Please inform us of your school or university internship requirements in advance so that we can work out your personalized work plan together. Also tell us about your personal expectations and goals. We are happy to give students academic credit or provide a report outlining the learning outcomes and deliverables achieved during the placement. What to expect Although project work will be provided, volunteers are encouraged to come up with their own ideas and initiative. This is an excellent opportunity to practice all your skills and learn new ones! As with any medical service, volunteers should recognize that their schedules may be subject to sudden changes and are dictated by patients/clinics needs. Working hours will be primarily in the morning when the physicians are at the hospital/health clinic. There is the possibility to also take part in weekend shifts and watches with doctors and nurses as this gives you excellent exposure to work observation and experience opportunities! Activities can include but are not limited to ● Observing, shadowing and assisting doctors and nurses during their work ● Participating in patient care: comforting patients and assisting with examinations ● Make swabs for disinfection ● Writing down a list of medications with the time for each patient ● Stocking up on materials and preparing or reprocessing ● Prepare and, if necessary, distribute medications (infusion, pills, ...) ● Checking on the well-being of the patients ● Volunteers may choose to teach English to the doctors, provided that there is a sufficient number of doctors interested ● Empty catheters (hospital only) ● Fold and wrap compresses Please note that for the safety of the patients you can only assist if you have previous experience and can understand the instructions from the staff. Inexperienced people can observe the nurses and doctors and help with small tasks. The longer you stay the more possibilities you have to gain knowledge and experiences in the medical field. More experienced people (like medical students) can assist nurses and doctors with tasks and can work independently on some tasks. Already graduated medical students or nurses are able to work independently after they have been instructed to work in the Dominican medical field. Requirements This program is suitable for a wide range of students and professionals. It is also available to pre-university students interested in a career in medicine. The key requirements for a medical volunteer or intern are initiative, enthusiasm and readiness to work in unfamiliar circumstances. More specialized skills will allow for more specialized activities. B1 Spanish skills are necessary, but an advanced level of Spanish will open up many more opportunities. To enhance your experience as a volunteer/intern we offer free Spanish language lessons every week. Availability This program is ongoing throughout the whole year Time Commitment A minimum time commitment of 2 weeks is required and can be extended up to one year Placement Location Samana & Las Terrenas Our Volunteer Guesthouse Apartments and our Host Family home stay The Foundation’s popular volunteer guesthouse apartments are located in the center of the seaside towns of Samaná and las Terrenas, both scenic, laid back and peaceful towns, with friendly and easy-going Dominicans, living their life with tourism, agriculture and fishing activities, all set to the beat and rhythms of Merengue, Bachata and Salsa music. Our Volunteer Guesthouse Apartments are extremely conveniently located only a few minutes from school or the hospital, the village center and to the beaches and the Malecon, the gorgeous seaside walking promenade, where you will find a lot of restaurants, bars and shops. The villages and their surroundings are very safe and our apartments in Samana and Las Terrenas have lovely neighbors who constantly look after us. All important locations are only minutes away and it’s safe to walk at night. A shared room with three beds is the standard option. Upgrades are available for double and single room occupancy and home stay with our lovely host family. Free wifi and access to a washing machine is, of course, standard at all Aldeas de Paz facilities. Living together with volunteers from all over the world is a unique chance for cultural exchange and can be an exciting and new way of living compared to anything you’ve ever experienced before. It has certainly been a key experience in the lives of many past volunteers! Volunteers work and live together and learn how to be empathetic and considerate of others’ needs. They often share their free time, house cleaning tasks and cooking (optional). It means they also become close, develop lifelong friendships and have immense fun along the way! We feel that it is important to highlight that we have created an environment of respect and consideration. About your Placement Location The Aldeas de Paz Foundation headquarters are located in the villages of Samana but this program is located in Las Terrenas and also in Samana town, center of the Samana province and peninsula in the north-eastern corner of the Dominican Republic. These villages with about 15000 inhabitants are very peaceful and safe and are constituted by a community with a strong sense of social responsibility. The people themselves consider their towns very safe, there is no more crime here than in any average small European town. The Dominican Republic's countryside as a whole is very peaceful, and certainly one of the safest regions in the Caribbean. Travel Logistics The Foundation will do everything to make sure our volunteers remain safe during their arrival and stay in the Dominican Republic. On arrival at the airport you will be welcomed by our english speaking driver who will help you personally during your transit from the airport to the bus terminal granting you peace of mind and tranquility. The driver will purchase your bus ticket while you catch the direct and comfortable bus to Samana, your placement location. Travel-time on the bus is two hours only. On arrival at the placement location, fellow volunteers and our Staff will welcome you and bring you to your accommodation. Costs & Benefits Aldeas de Paz works hard to keep the required financial contribution to an absolute minimum and to offer financial transparency by practicing an open book policy. The minimum contribution starts at €155 per week (after the second week) and includes Spanish language classes and accommodation at our fully equipped guesthouse apartments, a special program donation as well as a personal welcome service and pick-up at the airport, transfer to the bus, bus fare and free transfer to your placement location. This is included: Airport welcome service & transfer to your placement location Fully equipped Accommodation in Las Terrenas or Samana depending where you will be placed Wi-Fi internet (50Mbps) Kitchen and washing machine available Placement introduction Certificate after completion and the possibility of student credit Follow-up meeting at work once a week Free regular Spanish lessons throughout your placement Full support and 24/7 backup from local staff Information about adventure packages & in-country travel Special Offer Volunteers and interns receive free language lessons throughout their placement duration. Classes focus on developing four basic communication skills: listening, comprehension, speaking, reading and writing. Students are encouraged to speak Spanish right from the very first day, using it in typical real-life situations as soon as they step outside the classroom where learning continues as they are immersed in the Spanish language and the Dominican culture. Description Video of the program: https://youtu.be/kgXY7H0SRVU Contact Information Project/charity name: Fundación Aldeas de Paz Address: Samana, Dominican Republic Whatsapp: +1 829 7055 123 E-Mail: mail@peacevillages.org Webpage: https://www.peacevillages.org/mexico-community-resilience/ Facebook: https://www.facebook/AldeasdePaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AldeasDePaz Twitter: https://twitter.com/AldeasDePaz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Peacevillages
Date Posted: Apr 16, 2023
-
Flexible Schedule
|
Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic
Aldeas de Paz is completely operational and all our programs are active! We are happy to invite volunteers and interns to join us in the Dominican Republic (DR). The Corona health situation in the DR is managed successfully and precautionary measures very similar to European and international standards are in place. Travelling to and from the Dominican Republic is possible without difficulty! Your diving training starts at zero and will lead you through the first level "Open Water Diver" with the PADI diving school and the specialty training "Coral Reef Conservation". If you already are an Open Water Diver (OWD) or equivalent we will credit you a discount of 200 Euro or Advanced Open Water Diver (AOWD) certification! We also offer upgrades for Rescue Diver or Dive Master or a number of specialties. You will gain valuable and life-changing experiences with this exciting diving internship where you will learn to dive while protecting marine flora and fauna . Even if you don't have any diving experience, you will obtain important diving skills, while also gaining an insight and save the marine environment! Walk away with professional diving certifications and amazing experiences in one of the world's most beautiful marine environments! Samaná Bay is a significant breeding ground and nursery area for humpback whales from all over the North Atlantic and the most important multi-species fishing ground in the DR. While tourism is an important economic activity its impact on sensitive coastal-marine ecosystems is of particular concern. A major portion of environmental degradation in coastal areas is attributed to large-scale hotel developments in areas of high biodiversity and unregulated tour activities that put at risk reproduction sites for whales and turtles. Las Terrenas, as a coastal village, presents different ecosystems important for their ecosystem services: mangroves, seagrass meadows and coral reefs. This area is unfortunately subject to many anthropogenic pressures by deforestation and contamination which damage these ecosystems, in turn reducing their resilience and increasing their vulnerability to tropical storms. What to expect With the Open Water Diver International Diploma and the "coral reef conservation" speciality training you will be able to dive up to 18m deep and assist with marine conservation at our underwater sites along the coast of Las Terrenas. Once you have acquired the necessary training and skills, from the second week of your internship, you will also participate in marine conservation activities linking yourself with projects related to the conservation of aquatic coral nurseries, scientific monitoring of mangroves, seagrass beds, and corals reefs, as well as awareness-raising in the community on the importance of the environment and the topic of waste. All seaborne diving activities depend greatly on weather patterns and sea conditions. The work can be quite demanding but is always very rewarding and varied. Physical fitness is important, no Spanish language skills are required. This is a great opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to the protection of the marine environment while at the same time becoming a passionate qualified diver. Internship activities can include but are not limited to Gain all important diving skills and certifications as part of marine conservation project Regular theory and practice classes as well as studies and research on marine conservation related subjects Explanation of the conservation project and ecology of the species Acropora cervicornis (staghorn coral) Training in monitoring and elaboration of baseline for the mangrove of seagrass project Demonstration of cleaning and routine maintenance techniques of aquatic coral nurseries Assist actively with the monitoring of coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrasses Help with conservation awareness raising activities through Workshops, Movies, etc. Assist with the maintenance, protection and restoration of aquatic coral nurseries Assist with the elaboration of Beach profiles and the elaboration of their baseline Submarine Beach Cleanings, regular beach and river cleaning up Requirements No previous experience required to participate in the program. A typical volunteer or intern should be interested in diving and protecting flora, fauna and marine-life in general. He or she needs to be of good health, enthusiastic, proactive, willing to learn and ready for a challenge. You are welcome to bring your own personal wetsuit (3mm long or short sleeves), mask, snorkel and fins with you (can also be locally lent or purchased). The rest of scuba diving equipment is provided by the program! This program requires five flexible working days per week. (it is not a typical Monday to Friday week) Besides diving activities you are expected to fulfill scheduled working hours of non-diving related conservation work and educational activities like environmental awareness raising activities. We expect that interns adapt to program needs with flexibility, responsibility, commitment, patience and perseverance, among other significant qualities. The work can be quite demanding but is always very rewarding and varied. Physical fitness is important, no Spanish language skills are required. Starting dates are the 1. and 3. Monday of every month throughout the whole year! Volunteer placement, apprenticeship or internship You can join this program as a volunteer, apprentice or intern. As a volunteer you are free to commit any number of hours per week. That's up to you! As an apprentice or intern however you probably have to fulfill requirements set by your school or university. Please inform us of your school or university internship requirements in advance so that we can work out your personalized work plan together. Also tell us about your personal expectations and goals. We are happy to give students academic credit or provide a report outlining the learning outcomes and deliverables achieved during the placement. Availability Starting dates are flexible but if you prefer to join a group of trainees you are advised to start on 1. or 3. Monday of each month throughout the whole year! Time Commitment A minimum time commitment of 2 weeks is required and can be extended up to one year. Placement Location Las Terrenas About your Placement Location The Aldeas de Paz Foundation headquarters are located in the villages of Samana but this program is located in Las Terrenas, located 35 km from Samana town center of the Samana province and peninsula in the north-eastern corner of the Dominican Republic. These villages with about 15000 inhabitants are very peaceful and safe and are constituted by a community with a strong sense of social responsibility. The people themselves consider their towns very safe, there is no more crime here than in any average small European town. The Dominican Republic's countryside as a whole is very peaceful, and certainly one of the safest regions in the Caribbean. Travel Logistics The Foundation will do everything to make sure our volunteers remain safe during their arrival and stay in the Dominican Republic. On arrival at the airport you will be welcomed by our english speaking driver who will help you personally during your transit from the airport to the bus terminal granting you peace of mind and tranquility. The driver will purchase your bus ticket while you catch the direct and comfortable bus to Samana, your placement location. Travel-time on the bus is two hours only. On arrival at the placement location, fellow volunteers and our Staff will welcome you and bring you to your accommodation. Costs & Benefits Aldeas de Paz works hard to keep the required financial contribution to an absolute minimum and to offer financial transparency by practicing an open book policy. The minimum contribution starts at €180 per week (after the second week) and includes two complete levels of diving qualification from basic to speciality training, Spanish language classes and accommodation at our fully equipped guesthouse apartments, a special program donation as well as a personal welcome service and pick-up at the airport, transfer to the bus, bus fare and free transfer to your placement location. This is included: "Open Water Diver" and "Coral Reef Conservation" training & certification Professional Diving equipment is provided but you are welcome to bring your own personal wetsuit (3mm short or long sleeves) as well as mask, snorkel and fins (can also be locally lend or purchased) Airport welcome service & transfer to your placement location Fully equipped Accommodation in Las Terrenas Free WiFi (50Mbps) & access to washing machine Free regular Spanish lessons throughout your placement Placement introduction, certificate & student credit Full support and 24/7 backup from local staff Information about adventure packages & in-country travel Special Offer Volunteers and interns receive free language lessons throughout their placement duration. Classes focus on developing four basic communication skills: listening, comprehension, speaking, reading and writing. Students are encouraged to speak Spanish right from the very first day, using it in typical real-life situations as soon as they step outside the classroom where learning continues as they are immersed in the Spanish language and the Dominican culture. Program Highlights Experience the Dominican style of live and chill by the rhythm of Caribbean music! Gain Spanish fluency with the help of our free Spanish classes and share daily life with locals Become more passionate about your studies and propel your career with international experience! Make memories you never forget during weekend excursions with your fellow participants! Enjoy the gorgeous beaches of Samana, climb the mountain peaks of Pico Duarte and visit historical sites in Santo Domingos' colonial town! What makes the Dominican Republic and Samana such a special destiny? Samana is the name of both the peninsula and its biggest town located at Samana bay in the northeastern part of the Dominican Republic. It is a dramatically beautiful peninsula, like an island unto itself, of coconut trees stretching into the sea. The town of Samana is a scenic, beautiful and peaceful port, with friendly and easy-going Dominicans, living their life with tourism, agriculture and fishing activities, all set to the beat and rhythms of Merengue, Bachata and Salsa music. The Malecon (seaside promenade) of two kilometers length is perfect for strolling by day and night. It is the perfect place to while away the evening in a relaxing atmosphere in one of the many surrounding restaurants and bars. Hundreds of fantastic beaches surround the peninsula of Samana, which can be explored during a day trip or for the whole weekend. Experience the Dominican style of live and chill by the rhythm of Caribbean music! Other highlights nearby are: Las Galeras y El Rincon - A small fisherman's town with beautiful beaches surrounded by nature. Travel by Bus (45 minutes / US$ 2,-) El Limón - Famous waterfall and swimming. Travel by Bus (20 minutes / US$ 1,50,-) Cayo Levantado - Small Island with beautiful beaches just off the coastline in Samana. Travel by Boat (15 minutes / US$ 2,-) Parque National de los Haitises - Park made of mangroves, caves with ancient paintings and beautiful bays with pristine beaches. Magnificent limestone caves to explore. Travel by Boat 60 minutes / US$ 10,- Playa El Valle - A small fisherman's settlement with a beautiful beach surrounded by pristine nature. Travel by Moto Concho (MotoTaxi) (20 Minutes / US$ 3,-) Great Kitesurfing beaches near Las Terrenas only an hour from Samana! The whole Peninsula of Samana is a wild and precious natural gem! People are extremely friendly and nature is gorgeous! Whale-Watching - From mid-January to late March the bay is home to some of the world's best whale-watching Our Volunteer Guesthouse Apartments and our Host Family home stay The Foundation’s popular volunteer guesthouse apartments are located in the center of the seaside towns of Samaná and las Terrenas, both scenic, laid back and peaceful towns, with friendly and easy-going Dominicans, living their life with tourism, agriculture and fishing activities, all set to the beat and rhythms of Merengue, Bachata and Salsa music. Our Volunteer Guesthouse Apartments are extremely conveniently located only a few minutes from school or the hospital, the village center and to the beaches and the Malecon, the gorgeous seaside walking promenade, where you will find a lot of restaurants, bars and shops. The villages and their surroundings are very safe and our apartments in Samana and Las Terrenas have lovely neighbors who constantly look after us. All important locations are only minutes away and it’s safe to walk at night. A shared room with three beds is the standard option. Upgrades are available for double and single room occupancy and home stay with our lovely host family. Free wifi and access to a washing machine is, of course, standard at all Aldeas de Paz facilities. Living together with volunteers from all over the world is a unique chance for cultural exchange and can be an exciting and new way of living compared to anything you’ve ever experienced before. It has certainly been a key experience in the lives of many past volunteers! Volunteers work and live together and learn how to be empathetic and considerate of others’ needs. They often share their free time, house cleaning tasks and cooking (optional). It means they also become close, develop lifelong friendships and have immense fun along the way! We feel that it is important to highlight that we have created an environment of respect and consideration. Description Video of the program: ( https://youtu.be/CCJ3HAZRp8M ) & ( https://youtu.be/0xtguCu2uhk ) Contact Information Project/charity name: Fundación Aldeas de Paz Address: Samana, Dominican Republic Whatsapp: +1 829 7055 123 E-Mail: mail@peacevillages.org Webpage: https://www.peacevillages.org/mexico-community-resilience/ Facebook: https://www.facebook/AldeasdePaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AldeasDePaz Twitter: https://twitter.com/AldeasDePaz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Peacevillages
Date Posted: Apr 10, 2023
-
Flexible Schedule
|
Santa Barbara de Samana, Dominican Republic
Aldeas de Paz is completely operational and all our programs are active! We are happy to invite volunteers and interns to join us in the Dominican Republic (DR). The Corona health situation in the DR is managed successfully and precautionary measures very similar to European and international standards are in place. Traveling to and from the Dominican Republic is possible without difficulty! Aldeas de Paz operates a Community Attention Center (CAC) as part of our "Breaking Down Barriers" project in Samana where our local team consists of teachers, therapists, social workers and a pedagogue who help our beneficiaries, children, youth and adults with disabilities living in disadvantaged communities, both individually and as families. In our Attention Center and also through educational support in the community, we provide psychoeducational, psychosocial, learning, participation, awareness, recreation and free time in which each participant can develop their own skills through play and the arts, active participation in the community and social interaction. Aldeas de Paz offers educational support accompanied by awareness-raising activities on inclusion and diversity. Committed volunteers are always welcome as there is a constant need for individual attention and tutoring and sport classes. We place volunteers to help our local team attend to our students in the care center and users in home visits. Whether it's due to poor study habits or lack of individualized help and special needs, in the Dominican Republic many children and youth with disabilities struggle to keep up. Often a student's lack of confidence is their number one obstacle, so we provide a warm fun learning environment filled with praise and encouragement. That's how our volunteers help children experience success in school. Aldeas de Paz runs a successful humanitarian campaign and home care plan aimed at people with disabilities whose socioeconomic and health situation is threatened because of the current health crisis which has impacted heavily on the economic and social situation of our beneficiaries and their community. Facing the current health situation, our goal has been to bring physical and mental health, nutrition and inclusion. Now, the combination of our previous work at the Community Attention Center (CAC) and the action plan to alleviate the food, health and education crisis led us to develop the Youth, Community Care & Development program. Create your own Project!! In addition to our established community activities and programs, volunteers are welcome to develop new projects with the financial and organizational support of our charity. In the past, there have been projects like environmental awareness programs or sports activities for the local children provided by the volunteers. Additionally to volunteer opportunities at our own attention center volunteers may assist at a local school and daycare center as well as with English or German classes for the local public. What to expect We are constantly adapting our programs to community needs and volunteer numbers and capacities. If you wish to specialize we will do our best to accommodate your personal preferences, but you can be asked to be involved in a combination of activities while being placed at this program of your choice. Although project work will be provided, volunteers are encouraged to come up with their own ideas and initiative. This is an excellent opportunity to practice all your skills and learn new ones! Our main focus is on: Community Social Work: Direct family attention, monitoring, accompaniment and follow-up and referral of cases, Social Diagnosis, proposal of initiatives and projects, inter-institutional coordination and network for people with disability in Samana Education and raising awareness: Attention center Aldeas de Paz for children and young people with disabilities and special needs. acquisition and reinforcement of knowledge, promoting personal capacities individually and guiding them to the experience of inclusion and equal opportunities, Psycho-educational and psychosocial care, learning, participation, awareness, recreation and free time, public relation and media, talks/workshops, content creation and publications. Work and social inclusion: work inclusion, career advice, employment promotion, design projects, INFOTEP. Activities can include but are not limited to Work together with our team, teachers and psychologists providing attention to our special need students: Learning through play, development of activities to work on the socio-emotional, cognitive, phono-articulatory, sensory, psychomotor and practical life areas, support them in their own ideas to promote their self-determination, individuality & autonomy, the realization of the plans, projects and activities created in advance Help our team with activities for special need education on individual and group level at our Attention Center and/or on home visits Assist with presentation of talks and family intervention with different themes, according to context and needs Assist with educational and social support activities and take part promoting activities to create didactic materials using recycling techniques Help prepare and lead thematic workshops (some Spanish skills are helpful) and assist with direct attention, monitor and accompaniment of users to other goods and services Attend weekly meetings with other volunteers and staff to create weekly lesson plans and educational projects and help design and edit multimedia content Learn how to identify individual, family & community needs and help with case studies and Intervention to assess development and methodology Assist with recreational, developmental and therapeutic activities for children and young adults with special needs Assist children and spend time with them, playing, organizing, teaching and doing art & craft activities, singing and dancing helping them with their educational and social inclusion process Assist our team with youth, family and community development activities and engaging support for parents & caregivers on home visits. (basic Spanish skills are helpful) Help organize special events like fundraising parties, cooperating with other organizations and supporting community activities when help is needed Assist organizing and leading intercultural events and regular meetings for locals and volunteers with cross-cultural activities fostering exchange and integration Plan and execute workshops on disability and related topics based on the characteristics and needs of target groups (advanced Spanish skills are needed) Requirements No previous experience or special skills are required but basic Spanish language skills are very helpful. However, all that is truly necessary is enthusiasm, self-reliance, flexibility, patience and an open mind. Nevertheless, volunteers that already have experience in teaching, working with children or working with people with various challenges are strongly encouraged to apply. We welcome individual volunteers, families and groups regardless of age, experience or background. We provide free Spanish classes on a regular basis, full support and 24/7 backup. An ideal volunteer is proactive, result-focused but still patient and willing to engage in activities autonomously while still having our support and supervision. You are welcome to bring some arts & crafts materials. Availability This program is ongoing throughout the whole year Time Commitment A minimum time commitment of 2 weeks is required and can be extended up to one year Placement Location Samaná Our Volunteer Guesthouse Apartments and our Host Family home stay The Foundation’s popular volunteer guesthouse apartments are located in the center of the seaside towns of Samaná and las Terrenas, both scenic, laid back and peaceful towns, with friendly and easy-going Dominicans, living their life with tourism, agriculture and fishing activities, all set to the beat and rhythms of Merengue, Bachata and Salsa music. Our Volunteer Guesthouse Apartments are extremely conveniently located only a few minutes from school or the hospital, the village center and to the beaches and the Malecon, the gorgeous seaside walking promenade, where you will find a lot of restaurants, bars and shops. The villages and their surroundings are very safe and our apartments in Samana and Las Terrenas have lovely neighbors who constantly look after us. All important locations are only minutes away and it’s safe to walk at night. A shared room with three beds is the standard option. Upgrades are available for double and single room occupancy and home stay with our lovely host family. Free wifi and access to a washing machine is, of course, standard at all Aldeas de Paz facilities. Living together with volunteers from all over the world is a unique chance for cultural exchange and can be an exciting and new way of living compared to anything you’ve ever experienced before. It has certainly been a key experience in the lives of many past volunteers! Volunteers work and live together and learn how to be empathetic and considerate of others’ needs. They often share their free time, house cleaning tasks and cooking (optional). It means they also become close, develop lifelong friendships and have immense fun along the way! We feel that it is important to highlight that we have created an environment of respect and consideration. About your Placement Location The Aldeas de Paz Foundation headquarters are located in the villages of Samana and Las Terrenas where this program is located. The town of Samana is the center of the Samana province and peninsula in the north-eastern corner of the Dominican Republic. These villages with about 15000 inhabitants are very peaceful and safe and are constituted by a community with a strong sense of social responsibility. The people themselves consider their towns very safe, there is no more crime here than in any average small European town. The Dominican Republic's countryside as a whole is very peaceful, and certainly one of the safest regions in the Caribbean. Travel Logistics The Foundation will do everything to make sure our volunteers remain safe during their arrival and stay in the Dominican Republic. On arrival at the airport you will be welcomed by our english speaking driver who will help you personally during your transit from the airport to the bus terminal granting you peace of mind and tranquility. The driver will purchase your bus ticket while you catch the direct and comfortable bus to Samana, your placement location. Travel-time on the bus is two hours only. On arrival at the placement location, fellow volunteers and our Staff will welcome you and bring you to your accommodation. Costs & Benefits Aldeas de Paz works hard to keep the required financial contribution to an absolute minimum and to offer financial transparency by practicing an open book policy. The minimum contribution starts at €155 per week (after the second week) and includes Spanish language classes and accommodation at our fully equipped guesthouse apartments, a special program donation as well as a personal welcome service and pick-up at the airport, transfer to the bus, bus fare and free transfer to your placement location. This is included: Airport welcome service & transfer to your placement location Fully equipped Accommodation in Las Terrenas or Samana depending where you will be placed Free WiFi (50Mbps) & access to washing machine Free regular Spanish lessons throughout your placement Placement introduction, certificate & student credit Full support and 24/7 backup from local staff Information about adventure packages & in-country travel Special Offer Volunteers and interns receive free language lessons throughout their placement duration. Classes focus on developing four basic communication skills: listening, comprehension, speaking, reading and writing. Students are encouraged to speak Spanish right from the very first day, using it in typical real-life situations as soon as they step outside the classroom where learning continues as they are immersed in the Spanish language and the Dominican culture. Program Highlights Experience the Dominican style of live and chill by the rhythm of Caribbean music! Gain Spanish fluency with the help of our free Spanish classes and share daily life with locals Become more passionate about your studies and propel your career with international experience! Make memories you never forget during weekend excursions with your fellow participants! Enjoy the gorgeous beaches of Samana, climb the mountain peaks of Pico Duarte and visit historical sites in Santo Domingos' colonial town! Description Video of the program: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yGXTmnEbBsA Description Video of our Mission & Vision: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVj9K0VDEio Contact Information Project/charity name: Fundación Aldeas de Paz Address: Samana, Dominican Republic Whatsapp: +1 829 7055 123 E-Mail: mail@peacevillages.org Webpage: https://www.peacevillages.org/mexico-community-resilience/ Facebook: https://www.facebook/AldeasdePaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AldeasDePaz Twitter: https://twitter.com/AldeasDePaz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Peacevillages
Date Posted: Apr 16, 2023
-
Flexible Schedule
|
Chalma, Mexico
The Aldeas de Paz work center in Chalma is made up of a group of young professionals, committed to the social and cultural well-being of their community. The main objective is social integration, through cultural and recreational activities with the different sectors of society, elderly, youth and children. Aldeas de Paz is promoting a new community center that is located in one of the most important pilgrimage sites on the continent. Chalma’s needs and problems are huge, but also there are a lot of solutions that we are promoting. We want to promote social change but also to face one of the big challenges in town: look after abandoned dogs. Dogs attach to pilgrims while they walk to town and they don’t take them back with them. Every year, dozens of new dogs arrive in Chalma and the local population doesn’t have the capacity to shelter all. This project seeks to generate community well-being in a town that really needs this type of initiative. Because it is a well-known tourism center, its needs are diverse. One of the main tasks of the community center is to recover the history, culture, and traditions of Chalma through proper and systematic documentation (taking photographs, drone videos, interviews and organizing the international folklore festival in its fifth edition in 2023). We are also carrying out educational and occupational therapy activities with different sectors of the community. There is a lot to do and all volunteers are welcome! About Aldeas de Paz programs in Mexico Our Mexican programs are focused on socio-environmental conflicts management and transformation. Aldeas de Paz has partnered with local grass root NGOs that are committed to these tasks and that are helping us generate local change and impact. It is possible for any volunteer to divide its time on the different locations and programs. A two weeks minimum stay is required in any program. We encourage volunteers to take advantage of the different areas to visit in Mexico and we propose activities to do and places to see. Help us establish these programs and let’s start generating local changes in the different communities where we are working in Mexico. With Aldeas de Paz you can travel around Mexico and get to know new projects, people and challenges. This program is the first of its kind with Aldeas de Paz! Volunteer placement, apprenticeship or internship You can join this program as a volunteer, apprentice or intern. As a volunteer you are free to commit any number of hours per week. That's up to you! As an apprentice or intern however you probably have to fulfill requirements set by your school or university. Please inform us of your school or university internship requirements in advance so that we can work out your personalized work plan together. Also tell us about your personal expectations and goals. We are happy to give students academic credit or provide a report outlining the learning outcomes and deliverables achieved during your placement. What to expect We seek volunteers to be part of activities to help recover the history of one of the most visited towns in the world and participate in activities for community welfare and animal care! This program contributes to ongoing local initiatives and is developing multimedia material to document the history, culture, and environmental impacts in Chalma that will be useful in the short, medium, and long term. A weekly work agenda is built in a personalized way with each volunteer in which they can choose to participate in activities from a variety of projects that suit their personal or professional interests. The volunteers will be part of well oriented actions that seek to reverse this trend and generate the necessary change for a more sustainable future. Day-to-day activities will be agreed between the volunteer and the program coordination in Chalma after confirming the placement. However, notice that some activities may not be available at certain times of the year. Activities can include but are not limited to Be part of cultural documentation activities such as photographic activities, filming videos, conducting interviews and documenting Chalma's life. Work at the Aldeas de Paz work center in Chalma in community activities, such as planning tasks, care for the elderly, promotion of dance, culture and health. Help Aldeas de Paz’s team to find solutions for abandoned dogs on the streets (a huge problem in pilgrimage sites). This is a common phenomenon in Chalma derived from the large number of pilgrims who arrive. Document the history of the pilgrimages that come to Chalma and learn about the history of one of the most visited places in the world. Carry out workshops and activities in schools in the area for the teaching of the English language. (In school season) Participate in the organization of the International Folklore Festival in Chalma in July 2023. Be part of recreational activities and occupational therapy sessions for adults over 60+. Be part of cultural activities in the different communities near Chalma where the team works. Help students improve their school performance through "homework club" activities (Available only at certain times of the year) Requirements No previous experience or special skills are required. A volunteer/intern needs to be enthusiastic, willing to learn, ready for a challenge and has to have a desire to take initiative; friendliness, care, commitment and patience are among important qualities. Motivation and desire to learn about the community development field as well as passion for community work and grassroots development. We seek that the volunteer experience supports both a comprehensive experience for the person who participates and for all the members and beneficiaries of our community. Each volunteer will receive a personalized schedule according to his/her needs and availability of activities. A minimum time commitment of 4 hours/ 4 days a week is expected for all volunteers. We expect that volunteers adapt to program needs with flexibility, responsibility, commitment, patience, and perseverance, among other significant qualities. It is necessary for volunteers to meet certain requirements: At least 18 years of age at the start point of the volunteering period. At least intermediate Spanish competence (A2 completed) is suggested. We accept volunteers with less Spanish (will limit possible activities) Multimedia activities and documentation activities (no Spanish is required) Respect for the other and openness to discover new ways of life and cultural practices. Preference will be given to those candidates who have work experience with people in vulnerable situations or with a social sciences/anthropology background A valid medical insurance throughout your stay is mandatory Candidates will be interviewed through video call by the NGO staff An ideal volunteer is proactive, result-focused but still patient and willing to engage in activities autonomously while still having our support and supervision Availability This program is ongoing throughout the whole year. Time Commitment A minimum time commitment of 2 weeks is required and can be extended up to one year. Activities are usually held during weekdays from 10 am to 6 pm, but a personalized schedule will be organized with each volunteer on a weekly basis. Placement Location Chalma, Estado de México, México About your Placement Location Chalma is a small town located in the State of Mexico in Mexico, famous for its beautiful church and the religious pilgrimage that takes place every year. The main attraction of Chalma is the Sanctuary of Chalma, which houses a statue of the Christ of Chalma. The town also has a beautiful natural landscape, with forests and mountains that offer a perfect opportunity for hiking and other outdoor activities. Visitors can also explore the local culture by visiting the artisanal markets, where they can find unique crafts made by the locals. Overall, Chalma is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Mexican culture, religion, and nature. Our Volunteer Guesthouse Apartments and our Host Family home stays in Mexico The Foundation’s popular volunteer guesthouses apartments are located in strategic areas of the different towns where the work is conducted. Although the towns of Malinalco, Chalma, Chetumal and Cardonal (Mezquital Valley) are different and have different cultural vibes, all of them are scenic, laid back and peaceful towns, with friendly and easy-going inhabitants, living their life with tourism, commerce, agriculture and fishing activities (Chetumal). Malinalco is a popular "magic town" of Mexico where people from different countries have settled. Chalma is a religious Sanctuary and cozy town. Chetumal is a small and student city, although is the capital city of its region. Cardonal (Mezquital Valley, Hidalgo, Mexico) is a more isolate setting but immerse on an awesome natural landscape! Our Volunteer Guesthouses Apartments are extremely conveniently located with shops, services and touristic spots nearby. All places where we work are safe and volunteers will get to know that the insecurity reputation of Mexico is not generalized and should be understood through its regional contexts. A shared room with three beds is the standard option (Four in Chetumal). Upgrades are available for double and single room occupancy and home stay with our lovely host families. Free wifi and access to a washing machine is, of course, standard at all Aldeas de Paz facilities. Living together with volunteers from all over the world is a unique chance for cultural exchange and can be an exciting and new way of living compared to anything you’ve ever experienced before. It has certainly been a key experience in the lives of many past volunteers! Volunteers work and live together and learn how to be empathetic and considerate of others’ needs. They often share their free time, house cleaning tasks and cooking (optional). It means they also become close, develop lifelong friendships and have immense fun along the way! We feel that it is important to highlight that we have created an environment of respect and consideration. Travel Logistics The Foundation will do everything to make sure our volunteers remain safe during their arrival and stay in Mexico. On arrival at Mexico City International Airport (code: MEX, best option) or at Felipe Angeles International Airport (code: NLU) (1.5 hours more on the bus ride to Chalma) you will be welcomed by our English speaking driver/staff who will help you personally during your transit from the airport to your accommodation. The driver will take you to the bus terminal granting you peace of mind and tranquility. The driver will purchase your bus ticket while you catch the direct and comfortable bus to your placement location. Travel-time on the bus from Mexico City to Chalma is 2.5 hours. On arrival at the placement location, fellow volunteers and our Staff will welcome you and bring you to your accommodation. Costs & Benefits Aldeas de Paz works hard to keep the required financial contribution to an absolute minimum and to offer financial transparency by practicing an open book policy. The minimum contribution starts at US$ 155 per week (after the second week) and includes Spanish language classes and accommodation at our fully equipped guesthouse apartments, a special program donation as well as a personal welcome service and pick-up at the airport, transfer to the bus, bus fare and free transfer to your placement location. This is included: Airport (MEX or NLU) welcome, pick-up and transfer by land to the accommodation in Chalma Fully equipped Accommodation in Chalma, Mexico; shared bedroom with maximal three person Wi-Fi internet Kitchen and washing machine available Placement introduction Certificate after completion and the possibility of student credit Follow-up meeting at work once a week Free regular Spanish lessons throughout your placement Full support and 24/7 backup from local staff Information about adventure packages & in-country travel Special Offer Volunteers and interns receive free language lessons throughout their placement duration. Classes focus on developing four basic communication skills: listening, comprehension, speaking, reading and writing. Students are encouraged to speak Spanish right from the very first day, using it in typical real-life situations as soon as they step outside the classroom where learning continues as they are immersed in the Spanish language and Mexican culture. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Contact Information Project/charity name: Fundación Aldeas de Paz Address: Samana, Dominican Republic Whatsapp: +1 829 7055 123 E-Mail: mail@peacevillages.org Webpage: https://www.peacevillages.org/chalma-cultural-recovery Facebook: https://www.facebook/AldeasdePaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AldeasDePaz Twitter: https://twitter.com/AldeasDePaz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Peacevillages
Date Posted: Mar 19, 2023
