Community Work with Young Children in Rio de Janeiro

  Brazil

• Rio de Janeiro: 
Rio de Janeiro

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks

Description: Be part of it with i-to-i!
Our goal is to achieve 400yrs of combined volunteering all over the world by the end of 2008.

So far we have achieved 325yrs which when broken down means we achieved the following:

- Over 5500 children cared for on our community projects around the world
- A minimum of 13,000 children and adults taught English in schools and community centres
- Hundreds of animals protected including Turtles, Pandas, Elephants, Monkeys and more
- At least 80 homes and structures built for families and communities in need
- More than 8000 trees planted which are enough trees to offset the CO2 emissions of over 2,000 cars

Need to get some colour in your life?

If the bright colours don't overwhelm you when you land in Brazil then the even brighter smiles of the children certainly will. This is definitely not a country for anyone who likes the quiet life, with action at every turn! There's certainly plenty on offer on this project which uses a heady mix of dance, theatre and music to support the city's vulnerable children. Working with youngsters from a number of favelas (urban slums) your efforts will play a valuable part in helping the children on a project desperately short of resources, while allowing you to soak up the rich vibes of a pulsating city. Don't forget of course, our TEFL certification is included to make sure you're fully prepared.

Find out more about i-to-i, watch their short video here: http://video.i-to-i.com/site-videos/video.html

Highlights: What were the highlights of your trip that you couldn't wait to tell your friends about?

"Everything! My time in Rio de Janeiro was so rich and colourful, so much happened both on the project and in life outside the project that it's almost impossible to single out my experiences. An absolutely incredible city, full of contrasts and with very warm, welcoming people, always ready for a laugh." (Sally Mitchell)

This is your chance to support some of Rio's most at-risk children whilst soaking up the rich vibes of this amazing capital city. Working with youngsters from a number of favelas (urban slums) you can help shape their lives by helping out with all manner of recreational activities. From dance and theatre to sports and arts and crafts, your input will help to stimulate and educate the children, giving them a positive focus. Project resources are limited, so your help will make a huge difference.

Rio is a culturally diverse city with lots to see and do in your spare time. It is in a geographically stunning location and deserves the title of "cidade maravilhosa" (marvelous city). It is surrounded by lush peaks and amazing beaches. It is a city of contrasts where the rich live alongside the poor. The Cariocas - inhabitants of Rio - are free-spirited, welcoming, and with a love of Samba and celebration are always ready to party.

Brazil encompasses all aspect of the Latin spirit. It is a seductive place and is also a country of staggering beauty - its scenery is guaranteed to take your breath away. There is also an intoxicating rhythm of life that is famous the world over. From the bronzed bodies of its beaches to the unexplored wonders of its rainforests, Brazil is a destination that has to be seen to be believed.

You will be staying in a volunteer house, which has stunning views over the city and a great base to explore this marvelous city.

Qualifications: A love of children is needed for this project, as is a strong heart due to the nature of the work and the difficult circumstances these children are in. The children can be naturally disruptive. This project therefore requires a lot of patience and understanding.

Your role would encompass a wide range of activities: including recreational activities, music, dance, arts and crafts, sports and/or theatre workshops. You will also help prepare food for the children, and generally assisting with educational development. You may also need to help with general cleaning and facility maintenance, and not be afraid to change a nappy/diaper.

Basic Portuguese and/or intermediate Spanish required (intermediate Portuguese on some activities). Experience working with children is preferred but not essential.

Cost in US$: USD 2195.00 for 4 weeks, USD 220.00 for every week thereafter

Before you depart we offer:
- detailed information on your project and country
- fundraising advice and support
- visa instructions
- vaccination recommendations
- advice on health, safety and culture shock
- English teacher training course (TEFL)
- contact details to pass along to your family

When you arrive we provide:
- pick-up from the airport
- welcome orientation
- accommodation
- well-researched, quality placement
- support of in-country i-to-i team

You will always have:
- access to our emergency support team 24/7
- assistance of the global i-to-i staff
- guidance and advice from experienced i-to-i travelers.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: If you are interested in immersing yourself in another culture while giving your time to a worthy cause, then you are a typical i-to-i volunteer. We invite you to join the i-to-i community of dedicated volunteers aged 18-80 who are working on community development, building, teaching, and conservation projects across the globe. Together, we make a lasting impact that changes lives and helps preserve the planet through hundreds of worthwhile projects around the world.

Age Range: 18-80

This Program is open to American, Australian, Canadian and European Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Brazil Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Phone Interview

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network

i-to-i Meaningful Travel's Mission Statement: Founded in 1994, i-to-i is an award-winning organization providing unique opportunities for you to travel, work and live abroad. Thousands of travelers aged 18 to 80 have joined our volunteer vacations and over 50,000 have learned to Teach English as a Foreign Language through our tailor-made TEFL courses. With over 400 projects on 4 continents, you can join the worldwide i-to-i volunteer community on an extended adventure in areas such as teaching, community development, sports coaching, conservation, building or internships in tourism, marketing, journalism, or health.

Year Founded: 1994