DESCRIPTION OF COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERING WITH CHILDREN IN PERU

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What will I be doing?
Volunteers assist an educational outreach programme (much like an "after-school-club") supporting young children from difficult backgrounds with a desire to further their learning. 

Volunteers work alongside a qualified teacher employed by the project. Volunteers are involved with a number of tasks which can include:
*Helping with homework
*One-to-one tuition with children
*Creative activities; music, arts and crafts
*Active games & sports
*Help on the nutrition awareness programme, healthy living and hygiene education
*Preparing healthy snacks for the children
*Cleaning & maintenance at the project

How is the project making a difference?
The project supports the education of young children deemed ‘at risk’ of dropping out of the public school system due to poverty or lack of family support. They currently support around 60 children aged between 6-18 years old. 

The initiative provides a supportive environment in which the children obtain help and encouragement with their homework. In addition to this, each child is provided with a nutritious meal at the project.

Why are volunteers needed?
Volunteers work in partnership with local full-time staff to support lessons and educational games and to bring a new perspective and creativity to teaching and activities at the project. Volunteers expand the children’s horizons, acting as positive role models. 

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Accommodation and Food

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Food and lodging are included in your program. Volunteers stay at the hostel with the other volunteers. Volunteers can expect to share the same room with other volunteers. It is important to remember that you will not eat as you usually do at home, but we will make sure you have enough good quality food. As a volunteer you must be flexible with the traditions and customs of this country.

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First day

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On the first day of your program (normally Monday) your orientation will begin at 8am and will be conducted by our staff. The orientation will cover everything you need to know during the time of your program including an introduction of Peru, customs, language differences, rules, expectations, safety, and travel opportunities. After the orientation we will take you to your family home in Cusco where you will be staying at night.

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Language Classes

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Volunteers who wish to take a language course can do so in their free time Monday through Friday. Spanish and English are the main languages ​​taught in Solidasur. These classes are available for volunteers and special prices. Volunteers should consider taking classes because  it helps to better communicate in the project. All language classes are organized by Solidasur at the beginning of your program and we offer classes according to your language level.

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Volunteer week

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All our programs are flexible and can be adapted to your needs. Here is an example of a volunteer day:
7:30 AM Breakfast at the family host 
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM or 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Volunteers leave  and walk to their project with the other volunteers and their coordinator. The coordinator will direct the day's work. Generally the volunteers carry out activities for 4 hours in the morning or in the afternoon. After finishing volunteering for the day, you will have free time to relax, take the courses :spanish, salsa , cook  or explore the city.
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Lunch at the family host
7-7: 30 PM Dinner at the family host

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Fin de Semana

Volunteers live in Cusco. The city has many beautiful walks, it is not far from the wilderness but also has the benefit of a lively market. You will be able to explore the city and experience everyday life in a Peru.

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