Blue Mountains Village Projects in Jamaica

  Jamaica

Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: summer

Description: The projects change frequently from year to year. We primarily assist with public works/infrastructure projects. These might include installing an improved water system, expanding a community center building, improving school classrooms or building walking bridges. If you are handy with basic tools or are willing to paint, you can help. Even if you have only limited experience with a paintbrush, hammer or a trowel, you can provide a great service. The host communities are trying to establish eco-tourism programs, so if you have experience in this area, you could be an especially useful resource. Occasionally, volunteers are asked to assist in classrooms and tutor children. Health-care professionals have also provided blood pressure check-ups, diabetes screenings, prenatal care, tooth extractions, eye exams and other preventative health-care services. This is a very "laid-back" culture, so work assignments are loosely made. If you're flexible, and can just "dig in and lend a hand" where it's needed, this is a program for you! Service program fees range from $1,295 to $1,695.

Highlights: Global Volunteers started its ground-breaking work in the Blue Mountain communities, and we continue this 20+ year relationship today. Since 1984, we have been privileged to work with and learn from the generous people in this region. We invite you to share this formidable relationship with us! Help upgrade infrastructure and improve educational opportunities to ensure a better future for children and their families in these quiet villages.

Qualifications: If you have energy, an open mind, and are willing to serve as part of a team and take direction from local leaders, you will make a positive contribution to this exciting volunteer program.

Cost in US$: $1,595 adult/2wk; $1295/student with internet discount/2wk.

Credit Available: yes

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Our volunteers are culturally curious and open-minded people looking to contribute to a community development project and to improve their understanding of different ways of life, and the social struggles in developing communities. They are all ages, from various ethnic backgrounds, and of all different professions, such as educators, students, laborers, medical professionals, full-time parents, computer professionals, artists, lawyers and the like.

Age Range: above age 16

This Program is open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Jamaica Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 10-15

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Phone Interview
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Exit DebriefingAbroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

Global Volunteers's Mission Statement: "Adventures in Service". Founded to help advance peace, racial reconciliation, and mutual international understanding between peoples of diverse cultures through short-term volunteer service on long-term community development programs. We maintain partnerships with local leaders and indigenous host organizations worldwide and mobilize up to 300 teams of volunteers annually to work alongside local people on work projects central to their advancement. We also raise funds to support our international and domestic partners and to provide child sponsorships for educational, social and medical assistance. Global Volunteers is in special consultative status with the United Nations.

Year Founded: 1984