Work with Roma Population in Romania

  Romania

Brasov

Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: ongoing

Description: Romania is currently redeeming its rich heritage following the collapse of an oppressive dictatorship. This charming country embodies the European spirit of past, present, and future. Picturesque castles and quaint farming villages contrast with cosmopolitan cities and ski resorts as the country strives to develop its economy after the fall of communism and its recent admission to the European Union. The Transylvania region in central Romania is home to many treasures, among them the idyllic town of Brasov, where our program is located. This quaint town is only 160 kilometers from the capital of Bucharest and exemplifies the fairy-tale medieval architecture and cobblestone streets of a traditional Eastern European town. Volunteer work will be centered in a village on the outskirts of Brasov, but there will be ample time to explore the town center as well as the countryside. Despite the fact that Romania's free market has enabled economic growth and development for its people, ethnic minorities, including the Roma population, continue to be marginalized and subject to severe discrimination.

The Roma people (also known as gypsies) are not often able to take advantage of Romania's new economic opportunities due to severe discrimination, a lack of education, and official identity records. Globe Aware partners with local organizations that are working to help underprivileged Romanians fight against poverty and injustice. They target children, and at-risk families; particularly in Roma communities to help with a variety of initiatives.

During your volunteer week, you may work on a variety of projects including continuing improvements on a community center and kindergarten; as well as building homes in Roma communities. Volunteers may also work with needy children in various capacities.
Projects vary depending on the number of volunteers, which projects were finished with the prior group, what priorities have changed, weather conditions, which supplies are available, and often the interest and fitness level of the volunteers. For these reasons, specific projects are often not fixed until the week prior to your arrival and can even change upon arrival.

Highlights: Free time may be used to explore Brasov's historic town center. Sights include two watchtowers, which protected the walled medieval center; and the famous Black Church. A cable car carries visitors to a stunning view of the Brasov center from atop a small plateau. There are a number of medieval fortresses and churches in the surrounding area. The most famous of these is Bran Castle (more commonly known as Dracula's castle), only 30 kilometers south of Brasov, as well as Rasnov, a quaint citadel. The group will spend the day on Friday visiting these sights.

Qualifications: No special skills or qualifications necessary.

Cost in US$: 1390.00

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: The most typical volunteer is a working professional between the ages of 25 and 45.

Age Range: All ages are welcome.

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

Participants Travel to Romania Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups of ,10

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Globe Aware's Mission Statement: Globe Aware seeks to promote lifelong advocates for a better world and to sustain the world's cultural and natural resources. The organization, together with the local community hosts, develops effective local solutions to global problems in non-religious, non-political, multi-international environments. The aim is to expand and foster cross-cultural peace and understanding between Americans and the rest of the world, to preserve culture and promote sustainability. Globe Aware expeditions provide volunteers the opportunity to live and work side by side with a host community. The hosts provide a safe and interesting setting in which to learn, help, and have fun. The volunteers help to empower the host communities in creating renewable, self-sufficient programs. While Globe Aware's financial assistance benefits the community economically, it is actually the involvement and collaboration between the volunteers and community that is the greatest mutual benefit.

Year Founded: 2001