School for the Disabled in Cotonou

  Benin

Cotonou

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: Flexible, year round

Description: Experience all that this fascinating West African country has to offer while working to make a difference in the lives of disabled children. This primary school is focused on not only offering special programming for the disabled but working to integrate these students in to the general classroom. The school is unique in that it is one of the only places in the community that is providing options and resources for disabled children, as disabled students are often ostracized and not provided the same education as other children.   

You can contribute by helping in classroom, aiding blind or deaf children with daily lessons and homework, working on speech therapy, organizing arts projects, and assisting in counseling and mentoring sessions.

This volunteer project an unmatched opportunity to get to know the country and its people on a personal level, and contribute to programs that are making a real difference in the lives of children and youth it serves. You will work side by side with Beninois on this locally designed and run project. You will stay with a carefully screened and welcoming host family, giving you insight into daily life in Benin.

Our staff in the US are experienced volunteers themselves who are happy to share their experiences and expertise with prospective volunteers. Our Beninois partner staff are friendly, caring and dedicated to ensuring that all volunteers have a rewarding experience. The center is located in Cotonou, Benin's largest city. All volunteers will be taken to a host family upon arrival and participate in a three day orientation to Beninois culture and their project.

Highlights:
- Homestay with a carefully screened, welcoming host family
- Two meals during the week and three on weekends with your host family are included in your stay
- Support of friendly, experienced staff in the US and in Benin
- Comprehensive accident and medical insurance
- 24 hour emergency support

Qualifications: Experience or education in counseling, teaching and/or childcare is helpful, but not required. Any volunteers with experience or study in psychology and speech therapy are encouraged to apply. An intermediate level of French is required. French lessons are available prior to the volunteer project for an additional fee.

Cost in US$: Starts at $1,490 for a two week program

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18 and over

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

Participants Travel to Benin Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

Center for Cultural Interchange's Mission Statement: Founded in 1985, the Center for Cultural Interchange (CCI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of cultural understanding, academic development and world peace. Based in Chicago, Illinois, CCI organizes cultural exchange programs for participants of all ages, including high school abroad, independent homestay, internship, language study, eco-tours and volunteer programs in over thirty countries around the world.

Year Founded: 1985