Summer Camps and Reading Olympics for Children and Youth in Las Terrenas

  Dominican Republic

Las Terrenas

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks and 2-4 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: July 2010

Description: "Living in Community" was the theme of this year's camps (2009) and a new theme will be used for the camps in 2010. The Reading Olympics is an event aimed at fostering reading, reading skills, learning for fun and social skills among children and youth 6-15. Participants sign up, read as many articles and books as they can, give brief reports to volunteers and compete for prizes. Reading Olympics will run as part of the camps program.

The Summer Camps are the only event of its kind in Las Terrenas. For four weeks children and youth 6-16 participate in a variety of workshops, sports, social, cultural and educational activities. Emphasis is given to arts and crafts, but also to social and cultural skills in small group settings. Camps start with general sessions on the general theme, them attendees (approximately 100-150 each day for 3 hrs.) break out into smaller groups. Small groups do projects that they can take home with them. Volunteers work in small groups of 10-15 participants, usually in pairs, help with group processes, lead in the projects and help nurture individual and groups based on camps' objectives. Camps ran from June 29-July 24 in 2009 and they will take place during the month of July in 2010, with volunteers arriving the week prior to the start of summer camps.

Volunteers work hand in hand with local volunteers.

Highlights: Volunteers and/or interns are expected to work at least 20 hrs. a week and those who dedicate more time can run individual projects with children, youth and/or the community during the week.

Spanish language ability is a plus but we try to pair up non-Spanish speakers with local bilingual individuals. A positive, culturally-respectful attitude and good energy are essential. People who play musical instruments, have ESL experience, like to do crafts or teach a sport (volleyball, soccer, swimming) can use their talents as well. In addition, people who can teach computer navigation, literacy and have experience with building self-esteem and small group activities will be greatly appreciated.

We strive on creativity and positive energy. We foster self-initiative, creative environments, individual talents and the best that people can offer to children and youth that can use a good role model and a positive and productive summer experience (there's nothing else in town).

We can use as many volunteers as are willing to come. The event usually requires the work of 20-30 people between local and overseas volunteers. Be a part of this exciting opportunity to make a contribution to children and youth.

What will you get from this exciting experience?
a) hard and enriching work, b) making a meaningful and relevant contribution to the community, c) sharing your talents in a creative and team-based environment, d) teaching kids to lead and to follow, and e) sharing what you know or have experienced on behalf of people (children, youth and adults) who have had no such experiences like the ones the camps will provide them.

Last but not least, the joy of rewarding experiences, working with a variety of people and situations in a two-thirds world context. This is also a great opportunity to polish your Spanish language skills while enjoying a wonderful location.

Qualifications: a) college student or college graduate
b) 21-65 yrs. of age
c) experience working with children and youth groups a plus
d) Positive disposition
e) Culturally respectful
f)Flexibility
g) Creativity
h) team work
i) self-motivated and self-starter
j) proven skills in any of the targeted areas
k) musical or choral skills a plus, bring your instrument(s)!

We like to foster a service learning environment that is mission-driven and our mission is to better the quality of life of the people we serve. Mature high school students are also welcome with previous camp experience and Spanish language ability.

Cost in US$: USD 225 program fee, plus room and board.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: College student or graduate, but we've had younger students as well as older folks.

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Dominican Republic Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Phone Interview
• Resume

Post-Program Services Include:

• Exit Debriefing Abroad

Fundacion Mahatma Gandhi's Mission Statement: To enhance the quality of life of the people with whom we work, using suitable resources, in an authentic and continuous learning environment. [Mejorar la calidad de vida de las personas con quienes trabajamos, usando recursos idoneos, en un ambiente autentico y de aprendizaje constante.

Year Founded: 2005