4. Latin America Brazil Costa Rica Guatemala Peru “ One of the most memorable parts of volunteering for me was just how receptive everyone at the school was to me. They were all very interested in getting to know me, especially in the preschool. The students didn't even care that I didn't know much Spanish. They loved to try to tell me things and teach me games. The teachers and students were very understanding of the language barrier, and we all made up creative ways to communicate when we weren't understanding something.” - Lisa Eugea, Costa Rica
5. Asia China India Thailand “ I can't thank CCS enough for this fantastic experience. I'm leaving Xi'an a better informed citizen of the world, having glimpsed a bit of China. I'm leaving Xi'an knowing myself a bit better -- having learned some of my personal limitations and what I can personally draw on to exceed them. I'm leaving Xi'an hopefully as a better person having seen such open kindness, and really learning about accepting and respecting others' cultural heritage. I'm sad to say goodbye to China, but I know I'll be back, and I can't wait to plan my next CCS volunteer trip!” - Veda, China
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7. Eastern Europe “ My four-week stay in Russia was intense and enlightening. During the week, my days were full of challenging activities and cultural events which required me, above all, to try new things. The weekends allowed me to explore the country on my own. The experience was incredibly rewarding. Working with the children was great, and I got to learn more about Russia than I thought was possible in only four weeks.” Jonathan McLaughlin, Russia Russia
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Notes de l'éditeur
We believe the most successful approach to international volunteering one that defers to the needs and goals of the local community. We recognize that local people know what is valuable and appropriate for their own community. We're committed to providing volunteer work that helps them carry out their own set of objectives, rather than imposing another one. We believe in partnering with the community to effect change, working with local guidance, and supporting local solutions. For that reason, we work with dynamic and inspiring community-led organizations that we call "Partner Programs." These organizations agree to receive highly prepared and supported international volunteers and appreciate the energy and commitment that CCS volunteers give to their work.
These region slides are meant to only talk briefly about what countries are available. It is too early on for people to know in more detail about each country.
This can be a good time to mention the program fee and that it includes all of this and much more. All of these bullet points are explained in more detail, so no need to explain them here
You'll work side-by-side with local people to help achieve important community objectives Placements include orphanages and childcare centers, schools, health clinics and hospitals, homes for the elderly, centers for people with disabilities, and other community organizations. By working with Partner Programs on projects that each local organization has defined and set up, our volunteer opportunities directly contribute to the objectives of the local community. Year Round-Presence
Cultural activities help volunteers gain perspective of the country and the people they are working with. It allows them to be immersed in the culture and enhances their experiences - Explain how these activities give the volunteers a more in-depth understanding of the culture and people of the country. For example: City Tours allow you to see the country from an insider’s perspective. Our staff will take you around and explain the significance of certain things. They’ll also show you where the best places are to go grab a coffee, do laundry, buy souvenirs, etc…
We believe that free time is important so you can get to know the community and people in your own way. This is your chance to visit local attractions, take the path less traveled, or take time to rest and reflect Our local staff can give you suggestions for places to visit, or you can create your own agenda. During weekends, you can visit other parts of the country or stay close to get to know the community and new neighbors
We create a safe and warm environment for all of our volunteers without ever burdening the local community. Lodging Safe and secure Shared bedrooms Resource center& log books Wheelchair accessibility in some sites CCS cooks make authentic regional cuisine Food can be adjusted for any dietary needs Transportation Our drivers are all licensed professionals and have been trained to the highest standards They’ll drop you off and pick you up at placement - Having our own licensed drivers means the volunteers don’t need to worry about these basic logistics
Insight into the people and culture that only a local person could have. CCS staff works closely with the local projects to carefully match each volunteer's skills with the needs of the local organizations All of our in-country staff members are warm, loving people who want you to feel right at home and will make sure you are well cared for.
Volunteer Impact Volunteers are matched to their immediate needs through our placement process, ensuring that the work is both timely and relevant. CCS in-country staff maintain strong relationships with these partner organizations year-round We survey the partner organizations each year to confirm that our volunteers are furthering their goals and to hear their perspectives. Comprehensive Services and Support We provide the highest level of support to our volunteers and the local projects with whom we work All of our Program Enrollment Managers are former volunteers with CCS and were once looking for an international volunteer experience After enrolling, Program Managers are assigned to be your main point of contact They can provide in-depth information about the local culture and day-to-day life within the community, and give you a sense of what you might expect as an international volunteer. Dedication to safety and security We are committed to operating the safest programs possible and going the extra mile at every opportunity to do so From the decision to operate in a particular country to the design of the CCS Home-Base to the rigorous staff training on emergency policies and procedures, we are dedicated to the safety of our volunteers. Our entire infrastructure is designed around volunteer safety. Great Value You won’t spend much during the week, all your daily expenses are covered
Covers all logistics of the program and ensures volunteers are not burdening the local community they are going there to support. Allows the volunteer to focus on their experience and working with the community as everything is taken care of once they arrive in country
Many Cross-Cultural Solutions volunteers fundraise all or part of their program fee and travel expenses Fundraising is a fun and rewarding way to fund your program and make your dream of international volunteering come true Volunteers have planned events, such as bake sales and raffles, and engaged everyone from family and friends to local businesses in their efforts. You can even start fundraising before you enroll—many CCS volunteers fundraise their initial deposit
Volunteer Abroad Flagship program Areas of Focus: Social Services, Education, Health Intern Abroad More of an academic focus Intern report Guaranteed placement in area of focus Insight Abroad 1 week project
Recommend enrolling 90 days prior to departure, allow more time for summer start dates.
On the CCS Community, you’ll be able to browse photos, read blogs, participate in discussions, watch volunteer videos, and much more!