Volunteer Ghana:

1. How was the Local ABV Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country?

I received all the support needed and was fully taken care of by the host family. They helped me solve all my needs and answer all my questions.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

• Program: I was surprised about how emotionally intelligent all the kids are and able to make right decisions in various tricky situations.
• Country: Ghana is an amazing country with lots of astonishing sceneries. I was surprised mostly by how Sunday masses at church looks like, how music is played at funerals and that you can buy snacks riding a car just through your window.

3. What was the most challenging thing you experienced?

• Program: there were no challenges as I had the possibility to prepare for lessons, kids behaved well and everything is very easier when you’re open to what’s happening around you.
• Host family: living with the host family was very easy and pleasurable. They made their best to make my stay comfortable and easy to adjust. No challenges at all.
• Country: it was unpleasant to be asked money or gift and be perceived as a rich white person, this is common just say no and thats it.

https://www.abroaderview.org/volunteers/ghana/kasoa-ghana

4. Any tips for future volunteers… (clothing, travel, personal items, donations)

• Read carefully all the tips and guidelines which are provided by ABV, they’re extremely informative and useful.
• Books or other things for a plenty of free time; protein bars or any kind of filling snacks due to irregular meal consumption.
• Anything that you would be willing to donate for kids: clothes, shoes, books, usual explanation for English language etc.

5. Personal paragraph about the experience ( ABV program testimonial):

My overall experience about the program is very good. I was welcomed by the locals with open hands; my host family was super friendly, supportive and was a pleasure to spend time with. I didn’t happen to have any security or health issues or concerns. Pupils at school were very talented, eager to learn and easy to work with. People taking care of the children are very inspiring and it’s unbelievable what they do and devote their time to raise and educate young people. Absolutely incredible experience! I can’t wait to come back.

6. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security, friendliness, quality others?

• Accommodation: I was surprised by how spacious my room was, it had a huge comfortable bed, a toilet, and shower and luckily no mosquitoes disturbed me.
• Meals: the food here is very delicious and none of it was a novelty for me. Same ingredients as at home only prepared differently with other spices etc. I usually was too full after an erratic portion of meal served.
• Security: as long as my host family was taking care of everything during the whole stay and was with me, I felt very safe.

Volunteer Reviews

7. What was your favorite memory of this trip?:

• Program: dancing completions are definitely one of my favorite, however having discussions with my talented kids at school during lessons was very fulfilling.
• Host family: preparing local dishes together with the host family. Banku and fufu are finger-licking tasty! However, any activity with my host family was super good, going to church on Sundays, visiting local market, enjoying sunset etc.
• Country: I really enjoyed the trips to different amazing places in Ghana. I was even lucky enough to have a crocodile named after me. What a month!

8. How was the ABV USA support prior traveling? ( who helped you, emails, phone calls, chat online, how fast did you got the answer, did you got all your answers)

Thank you Lori, Lynn and Sarah for all the information provided. The orientation guide and all the informative and useful materials which helped me prepare for this trip. I really liked the opportunity to chat online and get all the answers to the questions right away.

8.1 Who did you find Abroaderview website and what keywords did you use.

Initially I was looking for such volunteering opportunity with duration no longer than one month. That’s why I started with keywords “volunteering Africa for a month.”

9. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?

Absolutely, more than glad to

Volunteer Guatemala

1.  How was the local ABV coordinator and the support provided in-country?

The coordinator was our in-country support and was amazing. Took care of getting us settled in on our first day in the clinic and with our host families. She even helped us organize transportation and hotels for the rest of our trip, which was great.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

The most surprising thing I experienced was how much time we got to spend with our Spanish tutors and how flexible the classes were. I was expecting a more formalized lesson, and it was a pleasant surprise to be able to have a more integrative experience with learning the language, culture and history.

3. What was most difficult to experience?

The Spanish immersion. It has been a very intense experience trying to communicate and understand, and while it has been beneficial and great, the best way to learn, it has been the most challenging aspect.

4. Any tips for future volunteers? (clothing, travel, personal items, donations, etc. ?

1. Spend more time volunteering if you can, more than 1 week, we had 1 week and it was jam-packed.
2. Bring layered clothing, it rains sporadically and nights can be a bit chilly.
3. Bring crisp, clean large bills to exchange at the bank ($50$100, no $20)

5. Other things volunteers should know?

a. Do not flush toilet paper in toilet.
b. Beware of street dogs
c. Beware of traffic – pedestrians do not have the right of way
d. No need to tip, not part of the custom, but welcome

Volunteer Reviews

6. Personal paragraph (ABV program testimonial):

This was truly an amazing experience, it really renewed my faith in altruism and globalization. This was such a holistic experience combining volunteering, culture and language. I loved being able to do some good, while meeting warm, genuine people both local and from abroad. Human connections are really what makes us strong and this experience really solidified that.

7. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e.g. host family, on-site, shared)

Our host family was phenomenal! They made us feel like part of their family, took care of us, taught us, and hung out with us. They made the living experience really great and made us feel welcome and at home.

8. What was your favorite memory of this trip?

Spending time with our host family. We did a night out with our host family and another family, and it was one of the best experiences I´ve had. The bonding and laughing and genuity of it all was truly amazing.

9. How was the ABV USA support prior to traveling?

The support prior to traveling was great. Very receptive and responsive to questions and provided us with all the details we needed, even reminded us of things we had forgotten to submit.

10.  Are you willing to speak to potential ABV volunteers?

Yes.

Volunteer Ecuador

1- How was the local ABV Coordinator and the support provided in-country?

The local coordinator was wonderful. She offered lots of support by answering all my questions and checking in with me frequently. If I encountered any problems I knew that I had a great support network at my disposal. Karen and Laura were so very helpful and calmed my nerves once I arrived.

2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

The most surprising thing I experienced was how quickly I was able to navigate the town I was living in. After less than three days I was able to get around perfectly well on my own. Granted, it was a small island town.

3- What was most difficult to experience?

The most difficult thing for me was missing home. Everyone experiences some form of homesickness while abroad. Mine was very mild and since I was only gone a month I mostly found myself missing the food of my home country. Although I enjoyed the food in my host family by this time I could go a very long time without eating rice.

4- Any tips for future volunteers… (Clothing, travel, personal items, donations)

Bring presents for your host family if you will be living with one! It is a great conversation starter if you bring something from your home country. Keep your packing light so you can bring home lots of gifts. And make sure to explore some on your own. It came seem scary at first but it can be very nice to catch a sunrise or sunset alone and reflect on how you are doing and how you are enjoying the country.

5.1-Other things volunteers should know:

a. Be flexible. Plans change and you should take it in stride.

1. Be open. Try new foods and new things.
2. Listen to your hosts. They know what is safe to do.

Volunteer Galapagos

6- Personal Paragraph (ABV Program Testimonial):

I worked with Galapagos tortoises in La Galapaguera a semi natural habitat for breeding. I also

monitored sea lions and marine iguanas so that the data could be used in work with local children.

I could spend my mornings with tortoises or sea lions and my afternoons helping out at a local dive shop. My volunteering was exhausting but extremely rewarding. I will never forget getting to feed baby Galapagos tortoises or getting to hang out with sea lions on the many pristine beaches.

7- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e: host family, on-site, shared)

I lived with a very nice host family. I ate breakfast, lunch, and dinner with them everyday. This allowed for bonding and extra time to practice my Spanish. I always felt safe and was given a key to the house. I had my own room and bathroom with a beautiful view of the ocean. I could not imagine staying anywhere else.

8- What was your favorite memory of this trip?

My favorite memory was scuba diving with sharks at Kicker Rock. I had free time on the weekends to do what I wanted. I got to dive with Galapagos Sharks, White and Black tip sharks, and Hammerheads. I also went diving with volunteer to clean up trash in the main harbor during World Oceans Day with the local navy.

9- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?

I had lots of great support while filling out my application. They answered all my questions promptly

and well. I never felt lost or confused.

10 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?
Yes, absolutely.

Volunteer Nepal

1. How was the local Coordinator and the staff and the support provided in-country?

They were very thorough in explaining every aspect of my stay from the working condition, to commute, to things to do during weekend. They made me feel like I’m home and not feel home sick.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program?

The most surprising thing was the fact that I actually found friends of a lifetime. My colleagues actually got me gift and cake when I was leaving which showed me how close we got and also made me really sad to leave them

3. What was most difficult thing you experienced while in the program?

Probably the most difficult thing would be the language barrier since at the dental hospital patients would communicate in Nepali language and I did not know any Nepali. But on the bright side, I would ask dentists and they would translate for me so I did not have any difficulty understanding the situation. I would recommend having Nepali language immersion class.

4. Any tips for future volunteers….(clothing, travel information, packing, sightseeing, donations)

As for the recommendations, I would recommend volunteers to bring clothing especially during hot months and anyways they would be able to buy light, cheap cloths here. So I wouldn’t recommend bringing many suitcases.

4.1 Other things volunteers should know:

• Try to read on sightseeing locations in advance and know how long it would take to get there.
• Always negotiate with the cab.
• Don’t walk late at night …..

5. Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial):

I loved my stay with the coordinator and his family. They are very caring and helpful and like a second family to me. My work environment was great and people were really friendly. I would definitely come back to Nepal with my family and spend more time here.

Volunteer Reviews

6. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security?

Everything was perfect. The meals were delicious and as little spicy since I can’t handle spicy food. Also they made me feel very comfortable at home and if I needed to go somewhere they made sure I know my way.

7. What was your memory of this trip?

Great and kind people at work and at home and beautiful nature outside Kathmandu.

8. How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?

I received plenty of emails regarding my trip explaining every step of the way and the information. I needed to know about accommodation and condition of living so the emails were very thorough.

9. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience?

Yes.

Volunteer Guatemala

1. How was the local ABV coordinator and the support provided in-country?

The coordinator was extremely supportive and accommodating. She met up with us almost daily, helped with logistics of volunteering, traveling, communication, currency, and extracurricular activities. She was also extremely engaging and approachable. My experience would not have been as complete or as diverse without her involvement.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

The most surprising thing I experienced was how warm and engaging everyone in Guatemala was, from the program coordinator to my host family to the medical staff I worked with to even the patients.

3. What was most difficult to experience?

The most difficult experience was the need to quickly immerse in the Spanish, especially for someone with minimal Spanish proficiency.

4. Any tips for future volunteers? (clothing, travel, personal items, donations, etc.)

• Layer clothing – weather is variable.
• Comfortable, durable shoes
• Bring crisp, high amount dollar bills (no small bills) for currency exchange
• Beware of street dogs!

5. Other things volunteers should know?

• Take advantage of local cafés and nightlife!
• Ask your host family lots of questions about local recommendations and travel logistics.
• Bring gifts for the host family.
• Consider bandages / blister covers for foot protection.

Volunteer Reviews

6. Personal paragraph (ABV program testimonial):

I personally thought this was a life changing opportunity. ABV was able to provide a complete experience for me in terms of volunteering and culturally. Would recommend it to anyone.

7. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e.g. host family, on-site, shared)

Extremely accommodating and social. You are fully immersed with your host family and will eat meals with them often. I felt very safe with my accommodations, and felt that my host family was really my family.

8. What was your favorite memory of this trip?

My favorite memory was going out with my host family one night to get chocolate drinks at a café. There was much laughter and my friends and family were full of jokes and pranks the entire night.

9. How was the ABV USA support prior to travelling?

Their email response was very quick. I was actually a last minute addition to my group, and this was done very efficiently and seamlessly. The instructions were easy to navigate and all questions were answered thoroughly and quickly.

10. Are you willing to speak to potential ABV volunteers?

Yes.

Volunteering opportunities in  Nepal

1.- Hi Tell us about you:

Full name (first and last): Elok Cheung

What do you do (study or work, where): 5^th year Dental student at Hong Kong

Where are you from (city and country): Hong Kong

1.1. – Why did you choose to volunteer in Nepal Kathmandu, what program(s) are you doing and why?

Why Nepal: I choose Nepal because I’ve never been to this country and I know that it is very different to my home town. I wanted to learn more about their historical monuments and the way they practice Dentistry.

What program: Volunteering at a Dental Hospital in Kathmandu.

Why this program: As a Dental student I would like to learn more about how Dentistry is practiced in Nepal and whether there are any similarities and differences. Also I wanted to compare public awareness of local people with patients back in Hong Kong and weather the problems they face are similar or not. Moreover I wanted to expand my knowledge from the local Dentists and help treat people in need.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program? 

Volunteer Program: I found that the most surprising thing is that the way of practice in terms of technique and materials used were rather similar to Hong Kong. Also I was surprised by how friendly the Doctors and staff were and they were eager to get to know us and exchange knowledge as much as we were eager to know them.

Host Family: One of the most surprising things was how generous and selfless our host family was. They would always be there for advice when we needed them and even invited us to participate in their festivals with their family. Although I was miles away from home I felt familiarity and love that this family gave me like I was one of their own.

Country: Definitely the people I did not expect so many people in Nepal to be so friendly. In Hong Kong, it is uncommon to talk to strangers and we held our guards up. However we found to realize that these local strangers would go out of their way to help us and translate for us. I was also surprised at how festive the people were and how much effort they would pay into their preparation and we were captivated by their unique traditions.

3. What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program? 

Volunteer Program: As we came during a festival season. The number of patients who came was much less than expected. So we did not have much practical work to do. But again we get to do some independent treatments.

Host Family: In terms of host family, ABV provided us with a comprehensive guide and we were prepared. I was actually impressed with the facilities here.

Country: The most difficult things we encountered were traffic and pollution. After the big earthquake in 2015 many of the roads were left with bumps and cracks which made the ride rather slow and sometimes uncomfortable. I was also surprised at seeing how many people they can fit into a local micro van as there were people bending over another to get on. However, these difficulties soon became rather endearing and we too found ourselves enjoying our daily transportation. The air pollution in Kathmandu is also quite bad so I would definitely wear a mask when the windows are down.

4. Any tips for future volunteers….

Clothing: As we came in summer, I recommend wearing short sleeve t-shirts and a pair of long, loose trousers. If you would like to purchase local wear there’re many shops where you can do so at an affordable price.

Sightseeing: You should definitely take the Domestic flight to see Mount Everest. It is a breath taking view and it was worth every second of the flight. It was truly one of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever seen.

Donations: Make sure you donate to credible organizations because there’re many people who try to scam you on the streets. You can even bring resources to donate to government hospitals as they do lack certain necessities e.g. gloves, masks etc. Although we did not visit any orphanages during our short stay, you can bring toys and books to donate to them and leave them at the home stay for someone to collect.

Laundry/internet: We mainly hand washed our clothes and the breeze in Nepal means that they dry quickly. The internet at the homestay was fast and consistent, but if you’re worried Sudhir can bring you to buy a phone card with a data plan.

5. Other things volunteers should know about: 

a.- City/town: Be careful of your personal belongings, especially money because 1000 rupees may not be worth much to you, but it is a lot to some local people. Although it is quite rare to have your things stolen, try not to flash your valuable around.

b.- Weather: The weather is good here most of the time, but roads can get quite muddy after rain. So bring some waterproof and less easily tainted shoes.

c.- Local People: Bring a torch if you plan to walk out at night as there’re not many streetlights. Also we’ve found that you can bargain for better currency exchange rates, so bring bigger bank notes as they can give you good rates, if you have USD 100 or 50.

d.- Tours: If you’re unsure where to go spend your weekend, you can always ask the host for advice. It’s advisable to rent a car for the days as saves you the time of bargaining and find transportation.

Volunteering in Nepal

6. Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial), detail as possible: 

The trip to Kathmandu is one to remember. Throughout these 2 weeks, I have not only grown as a dental student, but as a person. The people we have met here have greatly impacted my experience and I find myself enjoying the stay more and more each day. Perhaps we were not able to do much volunteer work because we stayed for short time , but we gained a lot of insight into the local practices here and We were able to do an extraction case, a minor oral surgery, some scaling and impression, which were enjoyable experiences. We even got to observe an enucleation of cyst, which never seen before.

I found myself looking forward to seeing different procedures and talking to the staff every day. I have never felt such compassion in a community and it is very different to our urban cit life, but I find their laid back way of life refreshing change. For sure, I would like to be back in Nepal in a few years time and I’m looking forward to seeing their reconstruction and development. I wish Nepal and its wonderful people all the best.

Volunteers can also join the Nepalese language immersion course if they would like to communicate better with the patients.

7. How would you describe your: 

Accommodation: Much better than expected! Everything is clean and the rooms are spacious. The toilet is also much cleaner than any ones you can find outside. If there’s anything you need, the host family will try their best to assist you.

Meals (favorite): Chicken butter masala, JU JU Dhau from Bhaktapur & Mutton sha hl karma were amongst my favorites. The home stay also offers western style breakfast in case you’re feeling a little homesick!

Security: I had not felt any sense of danger during my stay here. Especially in the home stay, we didn’t even feel the need to lock away our personal belongings. Although, as mentioned before, try not to flash your valuable around too often in public.

Host family: The best I can ask for! Sudhir and Sarita were always so welcoming and treated us with kindness. They would cook delicious meals for us every day and let us eat before they did. They would always make sure we are safe and we know how to get around the city. Their toddler is also very, very cute!

8. What was your memory of this trip? 

Program: The thing that I would remember most about the program are the Local Dentists and staff who are amazingly friendly. They not only share their own experiences with us, they would also ask about our own practices. We could see their dedication to their profession and we admire their work ethics. The staffs were also very nice and frequently bought us local food to try. Without these generous and kind hearted people, the experience would’ve certainly been very different. I’m thankful for all the fantastic people I’ve met and I hope to keep in contact with them and allow us to show them our country and return the favor.

Host Family: My favourite memory was celebrating Teej (Girl’s Festival) with the family. They took us out to shop for nice dresses and gave us beautiful bangles and taught us their traditional dances. By the end of the night, we were exhausted as we danced the night away. I can feel just how close their families are here and how much they value tradition. This experience was a highlight of my trip and I felt as if I was one of them and I had so much fun.

Country: My favourite memory was seeing Mount Everest on the flight, and also integrating into the local community. As we approach the end of our stay, I look back at all the first time experiences I have had here. After 2 weeks, we’ve slowly changed ourselves and our expectations and we find our difficulties & turn into everyday normal life. I never thought I would be used to the culture here, but I can truly say I will miss this place when I return home. There’s so much I can write about but I can tell you that it won’t be the same from you experiencing if yourself.

9. How was the local ABV Coordinator, the staff and the support provided in-country? Be as detailed as possible.

Airport: Sudhir was already waiting for us right at the entrance and recognized us before we even stepped out of the exit. Although we arrived late at night, he was very prepared and helped us organize transportation back to his home.

Orientation day: Our orientation day was an unforgettable one. We experienced public transport for the first time and we visited many local temples and main tourist attractions. We got to familiarize ourselves with the city, other volunteers and the hosts.

Daily Support: Sudhir would check up on us every day to make sure we’re fine. We also experienced some difficulties when we went out and needed some advice and transportation and the host family is always just a phone call away.

10. How was the information you received from ABV prior to

traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?  

Very detailed and sufficient. They also respond to any enquiries very quickly.

11. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience? 

Yes, definitely!

Volunteer Chile La Serena Review Valerie Beland & Ericka Bernard Orphanage Program (In French) from A Broader View on Vimeo.

Volunteer Chile La Serena Review Valerie Beland Orphanage/teaching program

1.- Why did you choose to volunteer in Chile La Serena, what program(s) are you doing and why?
Why Chile: J’ai choisi le programme que j’aime et ça a adonné à être offert au Chili.
What program: Orphanage Assistance, Teaching and Education 
Why this program: J’ai décidé de venir au Chili pour m’occuper des bébés à l’orphelinat. Je voulais venir parce que je savais que mon aide serait bénéfique au développement des enfants orphelins qui n’ont malheureusement pas toute l’attention dont ils ont besoin.  J’ai choisi Abroaderview car ils m’ont dit que la proximité entre l’orphelinat et la famille d’acceuil (confimée par Abroaderview) est de moins de 15 minutes en autobus/collectivo taxi.  C’était frustant d’apprendre une fois arrivée au Chili que la distance entre ces deux endroits est de plus de deux heures allez-retour. 

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program? 
Program: Le programme était vraiment amusant et enrichissant. L’horaire de bénévolat était accommodant et si j’étais fatiguée, j’avais toujours l’option de terminer plus tôt.  Je pensais que j’allais faire plus de bénévolat avec les bébés mais puisque seulement deux personnes bénévole pouvaient être à Hogar Redes, il m’était interdit d’offrir de l’aide là.  J’ai passé la plus grande majorité du temps dans la classe de la Profesora Fabiola et de son assistante Patricia.  Les enfants étaient tous attachants, souriants et enthousiastes a l’idée d’apprendre des mots en anglais et en français.  J’ai aimé les aider avec leurs travaux scolaires, apprendre l’espagnol davantage et assister l’enseignante avec ses leçons.
Host Family: Après une journée de voyagement pour enfin arriver au Chili, Vilma (host mom) nous a acceuilli moi et quatre de mes amies avec une grosse caresse à l’aéroport de La Serena.  Elle s’est préocuppée de nous pendant notre séjour au Chili.  Elle nous a amené à la plage, elle nous a fait visiter un phare, le centre-ville de La Serena, la Cruz et bien plus.  C’était une bonne guide touristique pendant notre sejour!  Elle nous a aidé a planifier les excursions que nous avons fait durant les fins de semaine.  En plus, elle nous a reconduit et cherché à l’orphelinat à tous les jours.  C’était vraiment gentil de sa part.
Country: Les chiliens mangent du pain pour déjeuner, dîner et souper! Dans le désert de l’Atacama, c’est très très vaste. Il y a de grosses montagnes et pleins de cactus. Les routes loin des villes sont comme dans les films parce que ce sont des chemins de terre très étroits avec des tournants très serrés. Le maisons et les magasins au centre-ville de La Serena semblent tous vieux.

3. What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program? 
Program: Ce que j’ai trouvé le plus difficile était la barrière linguisique. Même si j’ai suivi un cours d’espagnol avant d’arriver au Chili, ce n’était pas assez suffisant pour comprendre les chiliens. Les enseignants parlent rapidement en espagnol et les élèves parlent encore plus vite que les enseignants!  Les enfants où je faisais du bénévolat n’étaient pas très fortunés et c’était triste de voir qu’ils n’ont même pas le luxe d’avoir du papier de toilette dans les salles de bains.
Host Family: Ce qui était le plus dur était d’essayer de comprendre ce que Vilma (host mom) disait en espagnol.  Puisque j’étais avec mes amies, on réusissaient chacune à comprendre un mot en espagnol et à définir la phrase qui nous était dit.
Country: Très peu de chiliens parlent en anglais alors il faut s’assurer d’avoir l’application de Google Translate sur son téléphone!  

4. Any tips for future volunteers….
Clothing: -Apporter des vêtements chauds car la nuit il fait très froid.  J’ai même dû dormir avec mon manteau pendant plusieurs nuits. 

-Apporter un manteau en duvet.

-Apporter des petites bottes chaudes

Sightseeing: La plage de La Serena est longue et parsemée de beaux coquillages que l’on peut ramasser.  La vue du haut de la Cruz est magnifique à Coquimbo.  Les couchers de soleil sont beaux à regarder.  Une expédition dans le désert de l’Atacama te permet de voir les cactus, les montagnes avec de la neige dessus, les differents animaux au Chili, etc
Donations: Les enfants se servent de papiers et de ruban adhésif pour faire une balle de soccer et jouer au soccer à la récréation.  Il adorerait recevoir un ballon de soccer et des jouets pour l’extérieur tels que des cerceaux et des cordes à sauter.
Laundry/internet: J’avais accès a l’internet sans fil chez ma host mom. Il y avait aussi une laveuse et une sécheuse mais puisque je me suis amenée beacoup de vêtements, je n’ai pas eu besoin de faire du lavage.

5. Other things volunteers should know about: 
a.- City/town: Je recommanderais d’aller au centre-ville de La Serena en groupe.  Je ne me suis jamais promenée seule pendant mon séjour au Chili. Aller marcher sur le bord de la plage à La Serena est une activité à faire définitivement.  J’ai aussi aimé la vue paranomique en haut de la croix à Coquimbo.  Il y a beaucoup de chiens errants alors il est mieux de se tenir loin d’eux et de ne pas les toucher.
b.- Weather: L’hiver, (août) il fait froid au Chili.  La température est d’environ 10-15 degrés celsius. Il faut des sweaters et un manteau en duvet pour rester au chaud.  Certaines journées, j’ai dû mettre ma tuque et mes gants tellement il faisait froid.
c.- Local People: Les Chiliens sont gentils et souriants.  Les enseignants à mon école étaient très généreux et ils m’offraient toujours de la nourriture.  Les chiliens ont l’habitude de se donner des caresses et un bec sur la joue pour se saluer et se dire aurevoir.
d.- Tours: Apporter de l’argent d’extra pour pouvoir faire des excursions la fin de semaine.  L’organisation EcoTour offre des excursions très amusantes.

6. Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial), detail as possible: 
J’ai aimé mon expérience de bénévolat au Colegio et à Hogar. Les élèves et les enseignants étaient tous extrêmement gentils.  Les journées ont passé tellement vite quand j’étais au Collegio.  Chaques soirs, j’avais hâte au lendemain matin pour aller retrouver les élèves et la Profesora Fabiola.  J’ai rencontré plusieurs nouvelles personnes extraordinaires.  Je vais revenir au Canada avec ma valise pleine de dessins que les enfants ont coloriés pour moi! J’espère juste que ma valise ne sera pas au dessus de la limite de poids.   Ce voyage humanitaire m’a vraiment permis de connaître la culture chilienne, de faire de nouvelles rencontre,  de visiter des endroits magnifiques et d’apprécier le Chili. Je suis très contente d’avoir fait les démarches pour venir faire du bénévolat en Amérique du Sud.

7. How would you describe your: 
Accommodation: La maison de Vilma est propre, belle et sécuritaire. J’ai partagé une chambre dans la maison de Vilma avec une australienne.  Cela m’a permis de faire sa connaissance et d’apprendre a la connaître.  L’eau de la douche était chaude.  Il faisait froid dans la maison de Vilma mais c’est normal puisqu’au Chili, les maisons n’ont pas de chauffage. 
Meals (favorite): Vilma nous a servi des céréales et du pain pour déjeuner à tous les jours pendant notre séjour.  Elle nous faisait un dîner (sandwich au jambon ou au salami) à tous les jours.  Les soupers étaient differents chaque soir.  J’étais très surprise que les chiliens mangent autant de pains.
Security: Il y a une grosse clôture autour de la maison de Vilma.  Cette clôture a des piques très pointus alors je ne me suis pas inquietée pour ma securité lorsque j’étais dans sa maison.  Je ne m’iquietais pas pour ma sécurité lorsque j’étais au centre-ville car j’étais avec mes quatre amies en tout temps. 
Host family: Vilma est très gentille et elle s’est bien occupée de nous.  

Volunteer Reviews

8. What was your memory of this trip? 
Program: La deuxième journée lorsque je suis arrivée à l’école pour faire du bénévolat, les vingt-six élèves de ma classe sont venus me faire une immense caresse.  J’étais tellement heureuse car je me sentais un petit peu destabilisée dans ce nouveau pays avec des personnes inconnnues qui parlent une langue différente. Après cette journée là, tout est entré dans l’ordre et je me suis bien amusée au Chili.  Pendant les récréations, les enfants jouaient avec moi et je parlait aussi aux enseigantes  Le chien de l’école (Princesa) nous attendaient tous les matins derrière la clôture de l’école, prêt a nous saluer! 
Host Family: La journée de la fête à mon amie, Vilma lui a acheté un gros gâteau aux oranges, des chips et du Coke. On a chanté bonne fête en français, espagnol et anglais.
Country: Vilma nous a amené à la plage après une journée de bénévolat….Mes amies se sont baignées dans l’océan.  Lorsque nous sommes allés à Pisco Elqui, il y avait plein d’orangers et puisque j’aime beaucoup les oranges, je me suis regalée!

9. How was the local ABV Coordinator, the staff and the support provided in-country?
Airport:  Vilma est venue nous chercher en temps à l’aéroport.  Le transfert de l’aéroport à sa maison s’est très bien passé.  
Orientation day: Vilma nous a reconduit à l’orphelinat/école et elle nous a présenté à la directrice de l’établissement.  Carla, la directrice nous a fait faire le tour de l’école.  C’était une bonne orientation pour la première journée. 
Daily Support: Vilma était là pour moi à tous les jours si j’avais des questions ou quoi que ce soit.  Elle était une bonne source de support pendant mon séjour au Chili.  Les enseignantes à l’école m’ont acceuillie comme si j’étais une des leurs.

10. How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?  
C’était agréable de pouvoir utiliser le chat sur le site internet de Abroaderview afin d’obtenir des réponses rapidement.

11. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience? 
Certainement.

Volunteer Abroad Nepal

What Program did you choose and why?

Medical Program because as an art student science + health isn’t a subject I get to witness very  often and I was curious to what I might learn.

How was the local Coordinator and the staff and the support provided in-country?

The local coordinator and his family were very very kind. We had everything we needed to feel at home and guided us through navigating our daily routine as well as other adventures. Sudhir is a very good map drawer. When we were getting eaten alive by mosquitoes he bought us a bug zapping tennis racket which turned into quite the mosquito zapping game.

What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program?

May be not the most surprising but the most inspiring the people here in Nepal are the most cheerful, kind trusting people I have ever met. Everyone is so eager to help you find your way if your lost or help you over puddles of mud.

What was most difficult thing you experienced while in the program?

As an art student I didn’t anticipate the gnarly things I would see, I didn’t think I was squeamish around blood. Apparently, I was at first. I had to give myself a few pep talks but after a while you get used to it.

Any tips for future volunteers….(clothing, travel information, packing, sightseeing, donations)

The thing that I’ve found is on many blog posts on the internet they’ll tell you to bring loose fitting cotton pants and t-shirts but really wear what you wear at manager as long as you’re covering your knees and somewhat of your shoulders.

If you are in the medical program we wore scrubs but it would have been easier just to wear what you want and just put a white medical coat over that.

Other things volunteers should know:

Close to the community hospital where you’ll be working if you were in the medical program. There’s a large stupa you can walk around shop, eat. Its most off the crazy main road of Kathmandu but this place is peaceful and a nice escape.

Volunteer Review

Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial):

My favorite part of this trip was getting to know the workers in the hospital as well as others in the community. Every person we met added something more to our trip. For example we had a

very helpful language immersion class and our teacher brought us to her aunt’s house who had three cows all of which they let us name which I thoughts was pretty cool. In the hospital we

Witnessed many surgeries one of which was woman that had a gangrenious toe and I got a front and center view of its amputation as well as her follow ups with the doctors.

How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security?

Accommodations, meals and security was excellent. I was more than comfortable. The meals are delicious and as far as security, I never felt unsafe.

What was your memory of this trip?

I wished I could have signed up for a longer stay. I am not ready to leave the friends I have made and there is so much to see in Nepal and I feel I have only experiences a pinch of it.

How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?

The ABV staff was very responsible but a few things to note * Hospital Uniform * Bring masks protecting you from TB, most Americans are not immunized.

Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience?

Yes! I am more than willing to answer any questions anyone has.

Volunteer Abroad Peru

1- How was the local ABV Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country?

Maria Elena was both my coordinator and host mom for my time here. There were 5 other ABV volunteers living with us and she was very familiar with everyone’s placement and frequently checked in with us at the end of the day to see how work was. Maria Elena showed us around town, accompanied us to our project on the first day, and helped us get settled in well.

My program was intended to be pre-medical work in a clinic or hospital, and I only got to work there for my last weeks in Cusco (there was a strike in the city at most hospitals). The other time I spent in a nursing home. 

2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

Volunteer opportunity: I was surprised to see how local strikes affected our projects. It’s not common but it happens in Latin American countries.

Host Family: I was surprised that other ABV volunteers were living with me at Maria Elena’s. It was great, all of us became really close and always had a travel buddy / someone to explore Cusco with.

Country: I absolutely fell in love with Peru and Cusco. I feel as though I really took advantage of my month in Cusco to explore the city and get integrated, and yet I still feel like I there was so much more I didn’t see. Cusco is incredibly beautiful and cultured with many quaint side streets, historical sights, and activities. You won’t be bored!

3- What was the most challenging thing you experienced?

Volunteer Program: Because I wasn’t in my intended program, it was a bit disappointed to be working in a nursing home since they didn’t need much help to begin with and it wasn’t a program is furthering for my career. Nevertheless, it was good experience in a different field.

The most challenging thing in the nursing home was the language barrier since my Spanish wasn’t quite great yet, and some of the ladies only spoke Quechua, a local dialect. In the clinic, the most challenging part was vocabulary, since medical terminology is different in Spanish and English.

Host Family: Living in the house with the other ABV volunteers was great. Lunches were always filling and delicious. Maria Elena has an assistant, Alejandra, who is a wonderful cook and always made good food.

Country: Just like any foreign country, language, transportation, orientation is all challenging, but definitely a good challenge to have.

4- Any tips for future volunteers… (clothing, travel, personal items, donations)

1. Bring extra cash for exploring, food/snacks, and souvenirs.
2. Take the Spanish classes! They are super helpful with getting comfortable with the city, language, and your program.

3. Bring anything you might need to travel on weekends (i.e. flashlight, hiking boots, bigger backpack, CAMERA)

4. Try things that might be weird to you, like cuy and ceviche because you might not get the chance to ever again :)

5.1- Other things volunteers should know before coming here:

I think the orientation guide covers a lot! Nothing I can think of off the top of my head other than coming here with an open mind.

Volunteer Reviews

6- Personal Paragraph about the experience (ABV Program Testimonial):

I really really loved my time in Cusco. The people I met through traveling, and other volunteers were absolutely amazing. I always had something to do in town and the time flew by. Volunteering in Peru has taught me so much about different cultures, mentality, values, and way of life.

My program in the clinic was exactly what I wanted to do. The nurses I worked with were so kind and encouraging of me, which really motivated me to go work there everyday. The only thing I would change, is that I wish I could have spent the majority of my time in the clinic rather than the nursing home.

7- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security, friendliness, quality others:

Accomodations were great, I shared a room with another volunteer which was very fun. Maria Elena’s house has a hot shower, TV/netflix, and is located in a very cool part of town with a grocery store, laundromat, gym, restaurant near by. Breakfast and dinner (tea time) consisted of bread which I am not used to eating so often. As I mentioned above though, Lunches were always delicious home-cooked meals which was a great way to discover traditional Peruvian food.

8- What was your favorite memory of this trip?:

Program: One day in the nursing home, me and another volunteer were helping in the kitchen. We spent several hours peeling potatoes with the ladies living in the home. Not only did I love the fact that they wanted to help cook and stay active, but they were so funny to talk to and just had such a great character that really struck me. Everyone in the home called us “mama” or “mami” which is just an endearing way to speak to us. They were such sweet ladies.

Host Family: I absolutely loved just coming home and having 5 other girls at home who I could put my PJs on and watch Netflix with. Specifically though, I had so much fun when one night we all decided to go karaoke singing.

Country: Me and two other volunteers went on a weekend trip to Machu Picchu. We wanted to go the “cheaper way” so we spent the whole weekend taking buses, taxis, and walking 27km to get to there. In the end we were completely exhausted but it was incredibly beautiful and rewarding.

9- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling? (who helped you, emails, phone calls, chat online, how fast did you got an answer, did you got all your answers)

Sara was great at communicating with both me and my mom.

10 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?

Yes

Volunteer Peru

1- How was the local ABV Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country?

She she was such a great help! I came with my sister and she made us feel very at home and comfortable for the month that we were here. She always introduced us to knew places like restaurants, tourists sites and cities around Cusco, and other volunteer opportunities like working for a day in an amazing cancer hospital. She gave us experiences we will never forget and I was so grateful to have her as our coordinator.

2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

Program: One of the main surprises I had with the program was realizing how fortunate we are to have the facilities and materials in retirement homes in the US. Another thing that took me by surprise was how connected and close I would come to feel with some of the people that we helped and worked with.

Host Family: The most surprising thing with the host family was that my sister and I stayed in a home with a lot of other volunteers, but this surprise ended up being one of the best things about the trip! We made friends for life and it made the experience and traveling so much better. Another surprising thing was meeting Maria Elena’s dog Maximus, he was a constant comfort and was so fun to play with, especially because we missed our dog at home.

Country: The most surprising thing about Peru was the amazing and sometimes weird food that we got to eat! I will never forget eating oven roasted Cuy, something that I would never have been able to try anywhere else. Another great and surprising thing was how much we got to travel around the area, and how well Maria Elena helped us with coordinating our adventures in a frugal and safe way.

3- What was the most challenging thing you experienced?

Program: The most challenging thing with volunteering was definitely the strikes that were going on almost the whole time that I was here. I was supposed to work in a clinic here but because of the doctors and teachers on strike it made it very difficult to find a place for me to work. ABV found me work in a retirement home here, and I ended up loving the experience and I still got some clinical experience there.

Host Family: I didn’t have any challenging experiences with my host family!

Volunteer Peru: Again, the most challenging experience was the the strikes that were going on. There were a lot of road closures and difficulty getting around during those times, but they rarely lasted long and some of the strikes were interesting to watch and learn about.

4- Any tips for future volunteers… (clothing, travel, personal items, donations)

1. Bring warm clothes and a good jacket!

2. Always have an open mind when you’re volunteering.

3. Definitely take advantage of weekend getaways and travel! The time you’re here goes by really fast so plan your trips in advance.

4. If you’re a woman going on this trip for an extended amount of time I would definitely bring some emergency feminine products because they are sometimes hard to find here.

5.1- Other things volunteers should know before coming here:

1. You will meet amazing people everywhere you go so be friendly and open.

2. The altitude can really wreak havoc on your body and your plans, so for the first day or two take it easy and bring altitude medicine just in case.

3. Bring comfortable walking shoes that you can wear everywhere!

4. Save money for going to tourist locations here on the weekends and during your free time during the week, because it adds up pretty quickly depending on how much you want to see and do.

   

Volunteer Reviews

6- Personal Paragraph about the experience (ABV Program Testimonial):

I had a great experience with ABV and I would love to come back and do it all over again. Working in the retirement home here opened my eyes and made me feel really grateful.

I will never forget the other ABV volunteers that I have met here, and I will take the lessons I learned about other people and cultures to heart.

Volunteering in another country changes you as a person, and I know I will never be the same! As I’m writing this I’m getting very sad that my time here is coming to an end, and I will miss everyone here.

7- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security, friendliness, quality others:

The lunches that Maria Elena provided to us every day were delicious and filling. In Cusco it is customary to have your larger meal in the middle of the day, so if you’re used to eating more at night or in the morning I would recommend buying yourself some food for breakfast and dinner. There is bread and other snacks provided though.

I felt very secure walking around here by myself, but if you venture to the Plaza or anywhere else at night it would be smart to be in a group. The people in Peru were very friendly and accommodating, and they appreciated it when you tried to speak Spanish with them, even if your speaking is a little rusty.

8- What was your favorite memory of this trip?:

Volunteer Program: My favorite memory of the program was talking to the Ladies at the retirement home and hearing all of their amazing stories.

Host Family: My favorite memory from the host family was doing a few ‘family’ dinners and parties at the house. It was one of the other volunteer’s birthday while we were here, and our host mom Maria Elena helped us throw her a surprise party with decorations and cake and delicious food!

Country: My favorite experience in Peru was traveling on the weekends. I can’t pick a favorite location, but with having four weekends here I traveled to Puno and Lake Titicaca, Rainbow Mountain, Maras and Moray salt mines, Sacred Valley, Pisac, and finally Machu Picchu.

They were all unforgettable experiences, and it made it so much more fun to have other ABV volunteers traveling with us.

9- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?

Everyone who helped me was prompt and helpful with emails and information on traveling. Sarah was very helpful and informative.

9.1- What do you think about the reservation system online?

It was very easy to use and it helped me make an informed decision on where I wanted to be in Peru and also what work I wanted to be involved with.

9.2- Who did you find Abroaderview website

My dad and I were researching places for volunteering abroad online and ABV really stood out with the opportunities it had to offer! Especially because my sister and I could stay together in the same house but we could also work in different places that catered to our personal interests.

10 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?

I would definitely speak to other potential volunteers!

Volunteering Peru Cusco Review Sophia Solle PreMedical Cancer Care Program from A Broader View on Vimeo.