Center for Abused Children in Costa Rica

  Costa Rica

• Central Pacific Coast: 
Cartago

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: Flexibility Year Round

Description: This community-based organization gives children that are suffering from physical or psychological abuse a temporary place to live while the parent(s) undergo counseling or treatment. If the domestic situation cannot improve, the children are moved to a permanent orphanage in San Jose with the hopes of future adoption. The center focuses on giving them necessary interim counseling as well as providing them with an atmosphere of love and support.

Volunteers will work directly with the children in the center by organizing games, recreational activities, arts and handicrafts, acting classes, and academic tutoring sessions. Volunteers are also encouraged to be creative and to bring any of their own personal skills to work with the children. New workshops or ideas are always helpful!

The project is located in the town of Turrialba in the Cartago province, about 2 hours southeast of San Jose by bus.   

Highlights: - Homestay with a carefully screened, welcoming host family.
- Three meals daily.
- Support of friendly, experienced staff in the US and in Costa Rica.
- Comprehensive accident and medical insurance.
- 24 hour emergency support.

Qualifications: Spanish skills are very desirable and helpful but not necessary. Experience or education in counseling, teaching and/or childcare is helpful, but not required.

Cost in US$: $1,150 and up

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: CCI volunteers are flexible and caring people who are interested in an authentic exchange experience.

Age Range: 18 and up

This Program is open to American and Canadian Participants.

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