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  Jamaica

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks and 5-8 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: Available for alternative breaks

Description: Individual volunteers participating in a placement will have the opportunity to tutor at the local schools during the school year and will assist with summer camp and various community projects when school is not in session. Volunteer groups will have the opportunity to particiate in a hands on project centering around construction. All volunteers will have the unique experience of staying with local Jamaican families in home-stays.

Jamaica is popular for its tourist beaches, tropical beauty and warm, friendly atmosphere but the majority of the island is not visited by tourists. Volunteering in Petersfield takes the tourist experience deeper and provides the opportunity for visitors to participate first-hand in the life of a small, rural community. Volunteers will contribute their skills while absorbing the stories and strength of people working to build a better future for their community.

With tourism dominating the Jamaican economy, traditional sugar-farming communities such as Petersfield are entering a new era, in which they must strengthen their citizens towards action to ensure the sustainability of their communities. The Association of Clubs was founded with this goal of individual and community empowerment in mind. Amizade has partnered with the AOC since 2003 to connect volunteers to this unique grassroots organization. Amizade and the AOC are working together to meet the needs of the Petersfield community. The currently proposed project is the building of a new primary school for the nearby Galloway community. Volunteers with an interest in community development, technology, health, education, construction, youth, business initiatives and more will find plenty of opportunities to lend a hand.

Qualifications / Skills Needed: Just a willingness to help.

Language: English

Cost in US$: Placement Costs: $1,725 first 2 weeks, $365 each additional week. Please contact us for group costs.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer Projects: academic reinforcement, adult education, agriculture, AIDS, animal welfare, building maintenance, building schools, childcare/children, community centers, community development, community organizing, food, grassroots organization, health, health education, historic preservation, professional services, public education, recreation, reforestation, relief, renovation, repairs, seniors, small business development and tourism

Typical Volunteer: The typical volunteer is someone who is interested in learning more about a particular culture and serving in a needy community.

Age Range: 18+

This Program is open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangement: Home-stays

Participants Travel to Jamaica Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Other
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time Is 1 week

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Amizade Global Service-Learning and Volunteer Programs's Mission Statement: Amizade inspires individuals and communities through worldwide service and learning.

Year Founded: 1994