Volunteer for the Children's Camp in Novosibirsk, Siberia

  Russia

• All Other Areas: 
Novosibirsk

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks and 5-8 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: January 2009, Summer 2009

Description: The camp program combines language instruction (English, German, French, etc., for local Russian students, and RUSSIAN for overseas students and volunteer teachers) with organized activities such as arts and crafts projects, workshops, music and drama, games and contests, art and drawing, inventive engaging performances and shows, sports and outdoor activities and excursions.

The camp is located in a very picturesque wooded area outside of Novosibirsk, the city which is considered to be the center of Russia. Immerse yourself in a new community and culture, not simply as a tourist, but as a part of an international team. Join a group of volunteers from different countries, spend 2-8 weeks working at the children's camp, living and having fun together while helping a community and come home with a reward that lasts longer than an ordinary paycheck!

The program includes exciting and interesting outings and excursions that enable volunteers to learn more about the city and the Russian culture, as well as to practice their Russian in real life situations. On completion of the session, excursions to other historically and culturally important destinations can be organized. This program, being flexible, diversified and including many stimulating learning activities, is an extraordinarily enriching and rewarding experience.

Highlights: The program is a great chance for international participants to learn the Russian language and get a first-hand experience of the Russian culture. It provides the unique cultural opportunity of daily interaction with the Russian children, youth and adults. The RUSSIAN COURSE is organized for volunteer teachers and includes language studies as well as learning about the Russian culture, history and society.

- Have you always wanted to add some meaning to an overseas adventure?
- Do you want a new, challenging experience?
- Do you like to meet people from other countries and get your energy from working towards a goal as part of a team?
- Are you willing to gain experience, improve communication abilities, and develop skills that will help in your future employment?
- Have you ever daydreamed about gaining insight into the Russian culture and life in a way no traveler could?

If 'yes' is the answer, then our volunteer opportunities is the best way for you to spend a vacation.

Our program is the best place for learning the Russian culture focusing on the importance of complete linguistic and cultural immersion, and provides incredible opportunities for experiencing the hospitality and cordiality Siberians are famed for.

Qualifications: We are looking for native speakers of English, German, French, Spanish and other languages, who would like to be Volunteer Teachers of their language and Volunteer Creativity Workshop Coordinators at our winter and summer language camps. Our Volunteer opportunities are designed to include people of diverse backgrounds so there are few requirements for participation. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. No previous teaching experience is required. University students are eligible to apply as volunteer teachers/creativity workshop coordinators. We are looking for people who are energetic, enthusiastic, open-minded, sociable, enjoy camp experiences, are willing to share their knowledge and culture.

Cost in US$: from 550 USD

- Accommodation and full board (3 meals a day + a snack) in a recreational center facility which is situated in a picturesque suburban area of the major Siberian city of Novosibirsk, and provides rooms, classrooms,
recreational facilities.
- 3 classes of Russian daily for volunteer teachers, classes are taught by well-educated native speakers trained to teach foreigners.
- Exciting cultural and recreational program: contests and competitions, shows, performances, disco, etc.
- Outdoor activities and sports.
- Socializing: meetings in local communities, outings, barbecue, traditional Russian sauna.
- Excursion program: a guided tour of the largest Siberian city of Novosibirsk (sights of interest, museums, galleries)
- Transportation from/to the local airport in Novosibirsk.
- Visa support (letter of invitation and registration upon arrival).

Salary / Pay: Structured Russian language classes are incorporated into the volunteer placement. Volunteers attend 3 Russian classes per day, except excursion days. Interacting and speaking with local people is the fastest and most effective means of learning a language, and knowledge of other cultures is priceless.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: We are looking for people who are energetic, enthusiastic, open-minded, sociable, enjoy camp experiences and working with children, are willing to share their knowledge and culture.

Age Range: Minimum age of volunteers is 18 years old. No maximum age limits.

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Russia Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 10-15

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Resume
• Written Application