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

Description: 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. Volunteers are needed to continue this great work and enable the centers to provide the children even more activities.

If you want to be excited by travel ... if you want to see a side of the world that package tourists can only dream of ... if you want to make a difference to the world we live in, and get in touch with humanity, nature, and the earth ... if you want to join the fight against mindless holidays and save some hard-earned cash, come travel and volunteer with us!

Highlights: 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" (marvellous 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 marvellous 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$: $2361 for 4 weeks; $309 for each additional week

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 15,000 have learned to Teach English as a Foreign Language through our tailor-made TEFL courses. With over 500 projects on 5 continents, you can join the worldwide i-to-i volunteer community on an extended adventure in areas such as teaching, community development, media, health, conservation, building, marketing or tourism.

Year Founded: 1994