Get AMPED Abroad: Special Needs Children in Guatemala

  Guatemala

Quetzaltenango,  Xela

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: First and third Monday of each month

Description: Working with disabled children broadens your appreciation for the simple things we take for granted. The mere companionship provided by a volunteer affords a rare opportunity for the child to form a new bond and to be exposed to life in other parts of the world through shared experiences.

Children living with disabilities generally live in isolated conditions. Limited levels of physical and social interaction can be barriers to their ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Simple everyday tasks like brushing their teeth or having a conversation may require the greatest of effort.

AMPED volunteers working with disabled children will have the opportunity to bring joy, confidence, and companionship to a child's life by:

Observing and assisting with therapeutic modules;
Organizing educational and recreational games;
Administering physical and speech therapies, provided the volunteer has the necessary skills and qualifications;
Providing psychological counseling assistance provided the volunteer has a degree in psychology or related field, and can communicate effectively in Spanish; and
Working in the area of social work if the volunteer has a relevant degree in that field.

Highlights: Authentic cultural immersion experience as participants live with a local host family in addition to having daily interaction with the locals in the community and at their project assignment.

Qualifications: Must be and least 18 years of age, possess substantive and relevant experience working with children living with disabilities, and an intermediate Spanish level. Documentation of experience and credentials must be provided prior to arrival.

Cost in US$: Starting at 609

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: While participation is not limited to this demographic, the average age is 18-26. Participants that are flexible and open minded when it comes to cultural differences, ways of life, and work pace are those that tend to benefit most from their experience abroad, as do those that demonstrate initiative with regard to recommending and implementing changes to improve the project and to assist the staff.

Age Range: 18 and over

This Program is open to American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Guatemala Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Other
• Resume
• Transcript

Post-Program Services Include:

• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Alumni Network

Year Founded: 2008