NGO Volunteering
This is a fantastic opportunity to work with and learn about “what makes an NGO tick”. The Brazilian NGO you will be working with has a friendly, hard-working full-time staff based in both Rio and Recife. They manage, organise and administrate community development projects located in Rio de Janeiro, and Recife (north-east Brazil). They range from community work, educational projects and skills development. If possible they would also appreciate it if you could teach them English Language (in a classroom environment, of up to 20 students), and assist with NGO fundraising and advice. This is a good opportunity to work with an NGO, immerse yourself in the Brazilian culture and develop Portuguese language skills. The people are very friendly and professional, and you are sure to benefit enormously from the experience.
Why the NGO needs you!
You will be an assistant to the director and project leaders, some of whom speak a little English. Amongst other things, they would like your help in translating their website: this is already underway, but is a slow process. You will gain valuable experience in media work, and the general operations of a busy NGO - if you already work with NGos or want to in the future - this is a great opportunity to help, whilst gaining new experiences.
What kind of skills do I need?
A strong educational background would be useful for this placement, given the nature and variety of areas of non governmental organisation (NGO) work that may be undertaken.
Your Role as a Volunteer
You will be helping with English translation, teaching English, and general NGO office activities, including fundraising, administration, media and marketing. Your activities will to some extent be determined by your skills and interests. If you have fundraising skills, there may be the opportunity to help raise funds for the project. You will also be required to teach some English and will be expected to help put where required on the day to day running of the NGO projects.
Resources at the NGO
There are good facilities at the project. Computers and internet are available, and there is a good classroom. The working environment is clean and well organised, and resources are provided for you, to enable you to contribute effectively to this project. The exception is English language materials for teaching, which are very scarce, so it would be helpful if you could bring along some books, magazines and general teaching materials.
