Boomers Abroad

Description

The Global Volunteer Network currently has opportunities for volunteers of all skill levels to work on a range of projects in Guatemala. As a volunteer, you can become involved in healthcare, childcare, teaching, construction and animal care / animal rights projects.

Childcare:
Many of the children at our projects have been affected by poor living conditions, little or no education and alcohol/drug abuse. Volunteers provide loving care, support, and companionship to children in need, organising games and activities, providing individual attention, educating children in hygiene and assisting with homework. Volunteers will work in centres for street children, orphanages and schools across La Antigua, working alongside local staff to provide this essential support.

Teaching English:
Volunteers will provide tutoring to local students, establishing workshops, assisting local teachers, and organising educational games and activities. The teaching environment may vary and volunteers may find themselves teaching on a one-to-one basis or in small groups, rather than in front of large classrooms. The teaching placements are under-resourced and volunteers may be required to assist with the maintenance and cleaning of the teaching environment, as well as fundraising and the collecting of educational materials.

Construction:
Volunteers will work on a variety of projects depending on the current need. Projects typically focus around home-building, school and orphanage renovation, and building playground and bathroom facilities in areas which do not enjoy these facilities. Volunteers will work with a local foreman who will provide guidance and training, along with other volunteers and local families. Volunteers should be prepared for physical work and could be involved in tasks such as laying bricks, carpentry, painting, laying tiles, landscaping and gardening. Therefore whilst volunteers do not need prior experience in construction, a good level of fitness is required.

Healthcare:
Volunteers will work in a clinic or hospital for low income families, or a clinic for physically and disabled children. Depending on the level of medical experience and Spanish spoken, volunteers will participate in Triage (taking weight, blood pressure, pulse taking etc), working in the hospital wards and preparing medical materials, physiotherapy, health campaigns and assisting with mealtimes and activities for the local children.

The Working with the Elderly program is the second medical option, and volunteers work in nursing homes and senior centres in and around La Antigua. The projects are there to provide a compassionate and friendly atmosphere for the elderly, in under-resourced and under-funded centres in need of volunteer manpower. Volunteers provide one-on-one attention, basic healthcare and organise recreational activities for the elderly. Formal medical qualifications are not essential for this program, and the project welcomes outside ideas for projects.

Animal Care and Animal Rights:
This project allows volunteers to work with and protect abandoned cats and dogs, providing human company, medical treatment and playtime for the animals. Volunteers will also participate in educational programs in local schools, spay and neuter programs, rabies vaccinations and fund-raising events. Other activities such as brushing and cleaning of cages are common. Volunteers may also have the opportunity to participate in small construction, fundraising, and photography projects for the animals.

Please feel free to email us with any questions you have about this program