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: 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.

*Project details:
These projects are both aimed at providing early childhood education and support to young at-risk children from a number of Rio's favelas (urban slums). These children come from extremely disadvantaged communities and so the assistance they receive through education, physical and mental health, meals, clothing and recreational activities is invaluable. The projects give the individuals the chance to consider positive ways in which they can influence their local community and other young people rather that to get involved in the gang culture and violence that Rio has become known for.

There are a number of placements we work with that all focus on different aspects whether it is working with arts and crafts, dance, sports or music your talents can be put to use.

NOTE: The project itself is closed for Carnival between the 13th and 22nd February 2010 but accommodation and in-country support still runs as normal. Being in Rio during Carnival is an experience of a lifetime and shouldn't be missed!

*Why the project needs volunteers:
Volunteers are needed to continue this great work and enable the centres to provide the children even more activities. As there are many families who have access to the facilities there is often not enough staff to give lots of care and attention to the children, which is vital especially in the first years.

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

Highlights:
* Living and working alongside the 'carioca's'
* Exploring the stunning beaches of the city - who can resist the allure of Ipanema?
* Experiencing Rio's unique way of life - make sure you pack some stamina!

Qualifications: What kind of skills you need to go on this type of project:
Basic Brazilian Portuguese and/or Intermediate Spanish is strongly recommended, otherwise volunteers may find communication difficult. If you do not know any, please make the effort to learn before starting your project, you can also join lessons at the accommodation in country.

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

Your role as a volunteer:
A wide range of activities: including recreational activities, music, dance, arts and crafts, sports, 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.

Cost in US$: USD 2,195.00 for 4 weeks, USD 220.00 for every week thereafter

* Accommodation: Shared room in guesthouse
* Food: Food is not included; you will need to purchase your own food (budget approximately US$50 per week
* Airport Pickup: Included on arrival date. Ask us for details if you're arriving early!
* Training: In-country orientation
* Support: Pre-departure helpdesk, Local in-country team and 24hr emergency support

When you go on an i-Venture we want you to have the best possible time abroad, so we include these important services.

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

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-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

i-to-i Meaningful Travel's Mission Statement: 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