Volunteer with Children in Latvia

  Latvia

Riga

Length of Position: 2 to 10 weeks, extra weeks can be added
Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: This project starts on the first Tuesday of the month.

Description: Join an extremely forward-thinking orphanage that not only takes care of children while they are young but also emphasizes the importance of preparing them for adulthood. The Children's Village was founded in 1993 by Christophe Alexandre, who originally housed the children in a large, renovated manor house. The project was later divided into three smaller houses providing a more personal, family orientated atmosphere. In a moment of creative inspiration the Manor House was then converted into a hotel, the proceeds of which go to the Village, and the Hotel itself gives the older children the opportunity to train in hostelry and tourism. There are also plans to convert a barn and surrounding land into a farm that will rear Latvian breeds, grow organic produce and which in turn will attract tourists and school groups whilst also providing therapy and training for the children. Part of your fee will be a donation towards the Society and its efforts to become sustainable.

Highlights: Also included in the fee will be Latvian lessons in the village and excursions to Riga or the surrounding countryside. Children will be taken on outings and weekend trips, and you will be able to go ice skating and cross country skiing in winter, canoing and hiking in summer, berry and mushroom picking in autumn and receive a dose of culture throughout the year.

Qualifications: No formal teacher-training is required apart from a good level of spoken and written English to provide conversational lessons to adults and children alike. Volunteers should be enthusiastic and happy to work with children and young adults, some whom may be mentally disabled. Anyone with occupational therapy, tourism, farming, sustainable development and construction skills/background would be extremely welcome. A driving license is also an added bonus. Prefer mature volunteers, early 20's plus, who are fit and strong.

It is highly advisable that you take on the Latvian lessons during the mornings so that you can interact with the children and staff as well as locals. Inevitably you will pick up French, which the children and staff also speak (as the founder is French), plus some Russian. You will also be given guidance on how to deal with the children.

Cost in US$: From $1520 for 2 weeks

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: We prefer mature volunteers, early 20's plus, who are fit and strong.

Age Range: 20+

This Program is open to World Wide Participants.

Participants Travel to Latvia Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Phone Interview
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Job and Internship Network

Global Vision International's Mission Statement: 2008 marks a decade of commitment from GVI to all volunteers and partners. Global Vision International aims to promote the advancement of sustainable development through the creation of partnerships, promotion of local and global education, opportunities and via direct financial support. GVI remains committed to its local partners by ensuring they receive full credit for any research undertaken or achievements reached.

Year Founded: 1998