Boomers Abroad

Highlights

Development Issues Addressed by FSD in Argentina
The 1990's were an economic roller coaster for Argentina, with soaring growth due to international investment usage that would prove fruitful for the short term. By the end of the decade, the Menem administration had instituted structural adjustment policies that eventually plummeted the economy. By 2001, the economy deteriorated so badly that the country suffered an absolute meltdown, with industrial infrastructure and agricultural markets on their knees, minimal social and public services available, and aggressive privatization that resulted in many Argentines unable to afford basic needs such as water. More than 50 percent of the country lived below the poverty line an astonishing statistic considering the apparent wealth of nation.

After two years of desperation, Argentina is beginning to stabilize its debt, reinvest into infrastructure, and boost agriculture profits. The growth is built upon incredible grassroots movements and leadership efforts that are producing jobs throughout many sectors. GDP has been growing exponentially. Despite all of this, there is still much room for improvement with Argentina's economic situation. A large population of the country could greatly benefit from increased financial opportunities.

FSD partners with organizations that provide economic opportunity to underserved populations. Volunteers and Interns contribute in the areas of mentoring cooperative members, teaching capacity building courses, bringing organizational skills, and networking/researching other local foundations for information sharing. These practices are showing strongly positive results and are in great need by local organizations.

Minimum Education

High School

Intern Types

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

Depends on Program Selected; See FSD Website

Cost Include Description:

Your contribution fee covers all program costs (excluding airfare) and is 100% tax deductible for U.S. residents. Included in the fee is: a one-week orientation; family homestay will all meals provided; language lessons (not available in Latin America); development trainings and workshops; group sessions; midterm retreat (9+ weeks only); final debriefing session; on-going in-country support from FSD site team and U.S. staff; USD 200 mini-grant; eligibility for additional project funding up to USD 500, medical evacuation and limited health insurance; and pick-up from the airport.

Credit Available

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

FSD supports participants who boldly wish to initiate the change they believe is necessary in the developing world. Interns are passionate about sharing their practical knowledge, heart-felt enthusiasm, and economic resources with communities abroad that suffer unnecessary hardship. They wish to gain hands-on, grassroots development experience because they believe change is most powerfully cultivated on a community level. The aim is to experientially learn how their work can empower the community toward applying sustainable development solutions, rather than increasing reliance on foreign aid. Participants choose FSD because the program structure enables them to design and implement their own sustainable projects in collaboration with their host organization and the FSD Site Team. They are able to test their ideas and theories in the most direct way possible, giving them the experience and knowledge they seek. The flexibility of the host organizations allows for participants at all stages and levels of experience in international development to participate, thus opening the programs to a diverse group of capable applicants.

Age Range

18-75

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participant. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel to Argentina

Independently

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Phone/Video Interview
• Resume
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

1 months

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network

Foundation for Sustainable Development's Mission Statement

Founded in 1995, the Foundation for Sustainable Development (FSD) supports the efforts of more than 300 grassroots, community-based partner organizations throughout Africa, Asia, and Latin America. FSD's programs provide multi-faceted support that relies on active community participation to mobilize lasting solutions. FSD programs include:

• Capacity Building: Our professional field staff provides on-site training and networking opportunities to more than 300 community-based organizations worldwide.
  
  
• Training Programs Abroad: FSD provides comprehensive training and immersion programs for interns and volunteers who seek hands-on development experience.
  
  
• Grantmaking: Donations and grants given to FSD are used to support sustainable projects led by our partner organizations.
  
  
• Engaged Philanthropy: FSD Giving Circles organize groups of donors who pool their time, talent, and resources to make international grants to our partner organizations.

Year Founded

1995