YMCA Go Global - Volunteer in Gambia!

  Gambia

Banjul

Durations of Program: 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Typical Duration of Program: 3-6 months

Description: Volunteers at the YMCA in Gambia will largely be participating at the YMCA Computer Training Center, the second leading institute involved in the training and development of skills for the Gambia Public Sector. The center is in constant expansion, increasing the services provided to the public and thus the duties of the volunteer are constantly changing and increasing.

Highlights: Volunteers will be provided room and board at the local YMCA Complex, which is located about 2000 meters from the beach! The complex is very safe and volunteers will be provided 3 square meals daily. Furthermore, the pipe born water is 100% safe to drink. Gambia is a tropical paradise so enjoy yourself!

Qualifications: Participants must have a valid U.S. or Canadian passport and be at least 18 years of age. YMCA Go Global is particularly suited to college and graduate students, young adults, YMCA staff and individuals of all ages who want to explore the world and have a willingness to serve.

There are numerous skills that the volunteers should have in order to be successful at the computer-training center. They should be familiar with Microsoft Office as well as trouble shooting. Volunteers should also have understanding of Networks (LAN and Topology) and basic programming skills in Visual Basic and Java. They should also be familiar with Adobe Page Maker and Adobe Photoshop. The position as a computer instructor is quite demanding and it is important that the volunteers have the computer skills necessary to teach.

Minimum Education: High School

Cost in US$: $1000

*You will be responsible for transportation to New York City for orientation and for your airfare to Gambia.

Experience Required: yes

Background in computing: prefer a degree in IT or Computer Science, professional experience or a post-graduate student, ready to work with his or her own initiative, familiar with network environment, linux / open source software, windows operations, office application, programming. Has some management skills, ready to be a team player, prepared to learn and share ideas with others. Alternatively, volunteers are needed for the digital studio: Video Production; Video Editing on PC or Mac (Though we do not have MAC machines); Sound Production; Sound Editing; Production of high resolutions animations / designs; Multimedia CD Production; Knowledge of documentaries / jingles production etc; Marketing and able to train others; Use of Office Suites, Imaging Software and web site authoring software.

Typical Volunteer: YMCA Go Global is particularly suited to college and graduate students, young adults, YMCA staff and individuals of all ages who want to explore the world and have a willingness to serve.

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

Participants Travel to Gambia Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Other
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Resume
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home
• Alumni Network

International YMCA's Mission Statement: The YMCA is an international voluntary service and community development organization dedicated to serving youth and families. There are YMCAs and affiliated organizations in 135 countries, with more than 2500 YMCA branches throughout the United States alone. The International YMCA is based in New York City and provides education and service programs for youth and adults. YMCA Go Global is a volunteer exchange program for adults (18+) to volunteer at overseas Ys and other nonprofit organizations and contribute to community development.

Year Founded: 1911