Here's a list of commonly asked questions about my trip to volunteer in Brazil!
Why do you want to volunteer abroad?
I have always wanted to live in a country long enough to fully experience a different culture and lifestyle. I did not study abroad in college, but I always wished that I had. Now that I have graduated, I am still unsure of what I want to do with my life. I am hoping that this experience will broaden my horizons and that it will be rewarding to help others who are less fortunate than myself.
When are you leaving, and for how long?
I will be away for 8 weeks: September 26 - November 21.
What organization are you traveling with?
Cross Cultural Solutions- a non-profit organization that helps people connect with underprivileged countries. I have had a great experience with the CCS staff, so far.
Where will you be living?
I will be living at a CCS home with other volunteers. The building is also the home of the CCS organization's office. The home is located in a safe neighborhood in Salvador, Brazil, and a close walk to the beach.
What kind of volunteer work will you be doing?
I have yet to receive the specifics of my assignment, but I have requested to volunteer by teaching children.
Do you speak Portuguese?
I am learning! I will be taking Portuguese language classes upon my arrival, but I want to get to know as much of the language as possible before I leave. I have been working VERY hard to learn from Rosetta Stone, text books, and practicing with a Portuguese-speaking friend.
What else are you doing to prepare for your volunteer work?
I am making sure to learn language relevant to teaching. I am also making a scrapbook about my life at home (with both Portuguese and English languages) to help me connect with the children I teach in Brazil and teach them about American culture.
Why does it cost money to volunteer?
For 8 weeks, the program fee is $4600- not including airfare. This fee covers living arrangements, meals, Portuguese language lessons, cultural trips, the organization's staff, and so on. In addition to this, I will be missing out on 8 weeks of a paid job, so I will need to save up additional spending money in advance. It is a costly endeavor, but I think it will be worth it!
What are you doing to fundraise the program fee?
I am saving my own money, but I will also need help from others in order to volunteer. I have written letters to family and friends. I am also applying for grants, holding a Garage Sale fundraiser, and in the process of planning more fundraising events. Thank you so much to those of you who sponsored me! Any donation amount will help.
Why did you make this travel blog?
I created this blog to keep my family and friends updated on my travel preparations. After I arrive in Brazil, I will update it as much as possible- adding photos and writing about my experiences. I hope that my readers will also be able to learn from my endeavor! :-)
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