Center for Disabled Persons in Costa Rica

  Costa Rica

• San Jose: 
San Jose

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks

Description: Started by a group of parents whose children or relatives have been affected by disabilities, both physical and mental, this center has provided not only education and assistance for these participants but also acted as a support network for the parents. Almost all of the participants live in extreme poverty preventing them access to expensive types of care and rehabilitation. The center helps the participants to develop further self-reliance and independence through workshops and classes at the school on site. All participants range in age from 10-30 years.

Volunteers will work directly with disabled participants to organize games, arts, theater classes, self-esteem workshops, tutoring, rehabilitation and basic recreational activities. There is also a need to help teach basic skills for money management and starting a micro-enterprise. Volunteers are encouraged to be creative and to bring their own talents to the Center. Since extra hands are needed, new ideas are always welcome!

Highlights:
- Homestay with a carefully screened, welcoming host family.
- Three meals per day are included in your stay.
- 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, childcare and/or teaching 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