Volunteering in the Caribbean
Volunteering has been significant for the further growth of several islands in the Caribbean, especially in Haiti, after the 2010 earthquake. There are numerous organizations that offer volunteer programs for empowering others. However, many of these programs offer ridiculous amounts of costs and fees, that of many do not even include airfare! Volunteering abroad could also mean working for free, in exchange to receive free accommodations. Either way volunteering shouldn't cost an arm, a leg AND a toe.
Below is my list of volunteer places and programs:
Haitian American Caucus - Haiti has been on a mission to providing assistance and long-term development in the Haitian community since the 2010 earthquake. They offer several volunteer opportunities in the Fall that includes teaching English to Women Empowerment. They also offer internship programs in the Summer. Volunteers are expected to pay an accommodation fee of $40/day which includes: three meals a day, lodging, clean drinking water, security, wireless internet, and transportation to and from the airport. They accept volunteers on a rolling basis.
All volunteers must send their cover letter, resume and reason for volunteering to the Volunteer Coordinator.
Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos International offers volunteer opportunities to both Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Volunteers are usually asked to give service for a minimum of one year, however, short-term, 2-3 month volunteer opportunities are available for Haiti and the Dominican Republic in the summer. Volunteers must be 21 years old and older. A minimal knowledge of French would be needed to volunteer in Haiti. Creole is easily learned, therefore, volunteers are expected to learn it in the first few weeks. Volunteers need to have the minimum knowledge of Spanish to volunteer in he Dominican Republic.
Volunteers are provided room and board, however, are expected to pay for their travel expenses in and out of the country. A small monthly stipend is given to full-time volunteers. Potential volunteers must fill out the application form online.
Kids Alive International is a Christian missionary organization that is dedicated to rescuing orphans and vulnerable children. They offer missionary and internship opportunities in both Haiti and the Dominican Republic for residents of the U.S., Canada and the UK. Those interested should fill out and submit the form online.
Peace Corps has been the most acclaimed volunteer program initiated in 1961 by the late John F. Kennedy whose goal was to promote world peace and friendship. Peace Corps is currently present in the Dominican Republic since its initiation in 1962. Because of its notability, Peace Corps provides volunteers much prestige after completing the 27 month program. Not only are educational benefits offered but professional and career benefits as well.
Potential volunteers must apply online. The application process may take up to six to twelve months.
PUNTACANA Ecological Foundation offers a range of volunteer positions that supports to protect the sustainable development of theDominican Republic.
Interested volunteers can contact, fepc@puntacana.com, for current opportunities.
Animal Organizations: Animal abuse, especially that of dogs, is very present in the Caribbean. Many travelers are not aware of the serious issues of the killing and abandonment of dogs in both the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. There are several organizations where volunteers are always needed and welcomed:
Dominican Republic
Puerto Rico
All organizations are listed in the Humane Society International website.
Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms is one of those exciting, educational and useful organizations that I'm so happy exist! I just have to say I'm in love with this organization! It is a U.S. based non-profit that gives volunteers the opportunity to learn about the organic movement and sustainable agriculture while receiving free room and board. This is probably one of the few times I am glad Puerto Rico is "part" of the United States. Puerto Rico's nine registered farms around the island are included in WWOOF's 1600 organic farm directory!
The length of time for the volunteer on the farm will need to be discussed with the host. Volunteers generally spend half a day on the farm and receive meals, accommodations and education on organic activities. WWOOF requires a $30 membership fee in order to get access to its directory. Membership lasts for a year.
Volunteer at hostels: The Caribbean has very few hostels, however, volunteering or interning at Posada San Francisco in San Juan, The Palace Hostel in Miramar, PR or Bavaro Hostel in Punta Cana would be an option.
United Nations Volunteers promotes volunteerism to support peace and development worldwide. About 7,500 volunteers in over 160 nations every year serve as a UN volunteer in about 130 countries. If traveling abroad is not convenient, the UN also offers an online volunteering service that connects volunteers who can provide services and advice over the internet with thousands of organizations around the world.
WEBSITES to find Volunteer Work:
Idealist.org: A great resource to find volunteer, jobs and internships locally and internationally
Workaway.info: Specifically tailored to connect volunteer and hosts around the world.
Happy Volunteering Everyone!
Until next time...
Saludos!
Updated: June 3, 2014
