Program Photos
Get AMPED Abroad: Special Needs Children Volunteer in Guatemala
Location: Guatemala: Quetzaltenango, Xela
Program Duration: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks, 3-6 months (includes high school academic semester abroad)
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: First and third Monday of each month
Call Us
Phone: 214.736.7654
Fax: 214.276.7727
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.
Languages
- English
- Spanish
Cost in US$:
Starting at 609
Cost Include Description:
Includes project set-up arrangements, meals and accommodations in Xela, orientation, and 24/7 emergency in-country staff support. Participants will also receive information regarding their placement prior to their departure. Placement information, will include in-country contact information, alternative accommodations for delayed arrivals, currency exchange, phone and internet communication, laundry, etc.
Credit Available
no
Volunteer Types
- Childcare/children
- Counseling
- Disability Issues
- Handicapped
- Health Care
- Nursing
- Painting
- Recreation
- Social Services, Social Work
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 overThis Program is open to
American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African, Worldwide Participant.
Typical Living Arrangements
- Home-stays
Participants Travel to Guatemala
Independently or in Groups
Application Process Involves
- Online Application plus Application Assessment
- Other
- Resume
- Transcript
Typically The Application Process Time is
2-4 weeksYear Founded
2008
