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Gain invaluable experience working in a grassroots NGO in the Dominican Republic.
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This versatile experience and observation program gives insight into all aspects of running the Aldeas de Paz Foundation. This program is focused on those who are interested in starting their own charity or want hands-on experience in working in an NGO.
The NGO Administration volunteers and interns observe and assist the coordinator with office work, as well as in-community project support and administrative work and the coordination and supervision of community programs. The NGO volunteers will also help to ensure the well-being of our volunteers and their full integration into various programs offered, as well as into the social life of the community. The foundation relies on NGO volunteers to ensure smooth operations and therefore requires flexible volunteers. Direct work with our primary beneficiaries is an essential part of the work of Aldeas de Paz so that the NGO volunteers are also expected to participate in foundation-wide events and activities involving our beneficiaries.
A minimum stay of 2 weeks is required.
Entire year
Activities can include but are not limited to;
There are unlimited activities and sights to visit in your spare time. Visit the north coast for some of the best windsurfing or kiteboarding found in the world, go whale watching, try fun hiking, biking or even white-water rafting for those adrenaline seekers! You may also like to visit Caribbean’s highest peak, Pico Duarte, or the Playa Rincon, said to be one of the best beaches in the world. Hunt around the quaint town of Monte Cristo for some great finds including bargain priced jewellery made from handcrafted beads, and try some of the local rum in one of the colourful bars!
Upon arrival at Santo Domingo “Las Americas” airport or “El Catey” airport (Samana) you will be met by an in-country welcome & pick-up service and transferred to the bus terminal from where you leave with the bus to Samaná or Las Terrenas. On arrival, Aldeas de Paz staff will pick you up and bring you to the accommodation where you will be based for the duration of your project. The welcome & pickup service is courtesy and included in your placement donation.
English or Spanish
Passport
If you have any questions you are very welcome to contact us!
Aldeas de Paz works hard to keep the required financial contribution to an absolute minimum and to offer financial transparency by practicing an open book policy. The calculation of your financial contribution or donation is set up so that the longer you stay the less you give per week. We do this to encourage longer stays, recognising that longer stays lead to more significant volunteer work and more energy contributed in the form of donated time in place of money! The minimum contribution starts at €140 per week and includes Spanish language classes, double room at one of our fully equipped guesthouse apartments, a special program donation as well as a personal welcome service and pick-up at the airport, transfer to the bus, bus fare and free transfer to your placement location in Las Terrenas or Samana. If you wish a single room upgrade add €40 per week and an all in Host Family homestay upgrade is €145 per week, including a private bedroom and two meals per day. For more information about costs and benefits check out our webpage
First off, I officially decided to take the leap and register for the NGO Management Program about 1 month before I was due to leave. The registration process and introductory things were super easy and helpful. The director of Aldeas de Paz was patient and excellent with getting back to me quickly with answers to my many questions.
Once in country, I met with the local team and all the volunteer and I have to say, they are an incredible group of people who truly want to make a difference and help make my experience there a great one. I really enjoy the time I spend in Las Terrenas and one day I’d love to return to help out again.
The town of Las Terrenas is absolutely amazing. It’s beauty and charm will grab you, and hold a little piece of your heart. There is much to do and see in and around the town. So many shops, markets, restaurants, and beaches to see. Honestly, I could just sit on the beach and look at the waves all day.
One piece of advice I would give would be to just jump in. Ask what the need is, meet it. You’re only there for a short time, so make the best of it. Jump in with the culture. The food. The town. The way of life. The pace. The language. Try everything. Go in the shops. Take a trip. Jump in with both feet. You won’t regret it.
Review by:
Cecilia Hungerbuehler
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