Overview of the Project
Rio has some of the most stunning beaches in the world and they are right next to the city. Every weekend and in the afternoon, the beaches are full of people playing, enjoying the sun and swimming. Many also choose to grab a surfboard and try to ride the waves. Though people from all walks of life enjoy the beach, the people from low income families usually find less time to the visit. The goal of this project is to introduce the local youth from disadvantaged families to a positive sport. Many of the youth who participate come from low-income backgrounds. Surfing is a way to educate the youth about making positive choices and pursuing a healthy life.
Project/Volunteer's Life:
As a volunteer, your role depends on what the staff needs of you for the day. Many times you will be surfing, while other times it is just as important to support the youth in other ways. Activities depend on day, and your role as a volunteer will change as the staff sees fit. Daily activities may include:
- Program: Volunteer in Brazil
- Project: Volunteer Surf Project
- Start dates: 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month
- Location: Rio
- Departure and End Point: Galeao International Airport, Rio de Janerio
- Language Need: English, basic to intermediate fluency
- Accommodation and meals: hostel or volunteer house, breakfast included
- Activities: learn and teach surf to involve youth from low income families
- Working hours: 25-35 hours per week
- Surfing with the youth
- Organizing extracurricular activities such as music, dancing, sports, art, games, etc.
- Promoting nutrition and health
- Helping to fundraise or organize events
- Teaching English
- Assisting organization administrations with daily tasks
- Helping with basic maintenance of facilities
- Aiding local staff in any way possible
Skills/Qualification Needed
There are no specific qualifications needed to join Global Crossroads volunteer surf project in Brazil. If you don't know how to surf, you will be welcome to learn with the youth. Volunteers need to be flexible and patient as well as possess a passion and love for children. Portuguese is recommended in this environment, but not required. Volunteers should be good role models, flexible, patient, caring, creative, responsible and open-minded. All that said, you must know how to swim to participate in this project.
Volunteer in Brazil: Project Locations and Free Time Options
During the program, volunteers will have plenty of free time in the evenings and on weekends. While Global Crossroad does not specifically arrange activities during volunteer free time, our local staff can provide free advice, travel tips and assistance in making suitable travel arrangements in Brazil. Volunteers will have the chance to immerse themselves in a new culture and explore Brazil. This experience will be educational and a time for personal growth. Rio de Janeiro is the most visited city in the southern hemisphere. Whether you like fantastic natural views, history, relaxing on beaches, restaurants, nightlife, or adventure tours – Rio has it all. There have been many tales and anecdotes written about beach life of Ipanema and Copacabana. Both the beaches are very close from your accommodation. Lapa is right next to where you live. It's famous for nightlife and is also frequented by many creative minds like the artists. Other places of interest include Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf Mountain and the Maracana stadium. The annual Carnival, which draws huge crowd, is a very popular festival.