Teach English in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

  Brazil

• Rio de Janeiro: 
Rio de Janeiro

Length of Position: 2-12 Weeks
Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: multiple start dates year round

Description: This is a great opportunity to teach English in the heart of Rio's 'favella' communities. Rio is always striking but not always for the right reasons; much of its population live in inadequate housing and have no access to the opportunities we take for granted. Working with one of two organisations, you can make a real difference at a grassroots level, equipping children and adults with the language skills necessary to build better and brighter futures. The projects plays an important role in helping them to find alternatives to a life of violence and crime. This is an opportunity to see not just another country but another world, and experiencing the Favellas means that the children aren't the only ones who will be getting an education.

*Project details:
O Nosso Papel - was established in 2001 as a non Governmental Organisation, to provide people from underprivileged backgrounds with an opportunity to generate an income through training and support to create and use recycled paper to make handicrafts and office supplies. In this way ONP addresses environmental issues, employment issues and poverty, all of which are crucial areas for social development.

Danca pra Galera - Established in 2002 is an organisation that encourages young people to find alternatives to a life of violence and crime and gives them the opportunity get involved in lots of activities including visual arts, IT training, child care and making films. The project also gives the individuals the chance to consider positive ways in which they can influence their local community and other young people. In three years more than 150 people from the communities of Prazeres, Escondidinho, Julio Ontoni, Fallet, Fogueterio and Guararapes have taken part in the organisations activities.

NOTE: The projects themselves are closed for Carnival between the 13th and 22nd February 2010 but accommodation and in-country support still runs as normal. Being in Rio during Carnival is an experience of a lifetime and shouldn't be missed!

*Why the project needs volunteers:
All of these projects have limited funds and resources, and are always trying to reach more members of the local community. To do this, and to continue with the work they are already undertaking, they need assistance from volunteers, especially those from overseas who can also contribute through cultural exchange.

Find out more about i-to-i, watch their short video here: http://video.i-to-i.com/site-videos/video.html

Highlights:
* Helping develop the language skills of your students
* Exploring Rio and all it's delights - beaches, dancing, caipirinhas. Wow!
* Being inspired by the Rio way of life - fun, fun fun!

An unbelievable opportunity to teach English in the heart of Rio's 'favela' (slum) communities. Working with one of two organizations, you can make a real difference at a grassroots level, equipping children and adults with the language skills to build better and brighter futures. Working in the favelas of Rio, your eyes will be opened and a truly unique experience awaits.

Rio is a culturally diverse city with lots to see and do in your spare time. It is in a geographically stunning location and deserves the title of "cidade maravilhosa" (marvelous city). It is surrounded by lush peaks and amazing beaches. It is a city of contrasts where the rich live alongside the poor. The Cariocas - inhabitants of Rio - are free-spirited, welcoming and with a love of Samba and celebration are always ready to party.

Brazil encompasses all aspect of the Latin spirit. It is a seductive place and is also a country of staggering beauty - its scenery is guaranteed to take your breath away. There is also an intoxicating rhythm of life - that is famous the world over. From the bronzed bodies of its beaches to the unexplored wonders of its rainforests, Brazil is a destination that has to be seen to be believed.

Qualifications: What kind of skills you need to go on this type of project:
Enthusiastic, hardworking and committed volunteers are needed. If you wish to teach any additional class's in the extra activities, experience may be required. As the locals do not speak that much English, you'll get more from your experience by learning some Brazilian Portuguese before you start your project. Recommended level: Basic Portuguese

Your role as a volunteer:
There is a wide range of activities that volunteers can expect to get involved with while assisting in the cultural projects, from music, dance, sports, photography, and language tuition.

Cost in US$: USD 1,755.00 for 2 weeks, USD 220.00 for every week thereafter

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: If you are interested in immersing yourself in another culture while giving your time to a worthy cause, then you are a typical i-to-i volunteer. We invite you to join the i-to-i community of dedicated volunteers aged 18-80 who are working on community development, building, teaching, and conservation projects across the globe. Together, we make a lasting impact that changes lives and helps preserve the planet through hundreds of worthwhile projects around the world.

Age Range: 18-80

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

Participants Travel to Brazil Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Phone Interview

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Year Founded: 1994