Child and Youth Development

location
4 - 8 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Brilliant 4.7  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Highlights

  • Help promote wellness awareness
  • Create and deliver workshops on mental health
  • Assist in breaking down stereotypes

Highlights

  • Help promote wellness awareness
  • Create and deliver workshops on mental health
  • Assist in breaking down stereotypes
  • Manage conflict resolution sessions
  • Develop your personal skills


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Develop and assist in improving the well-being of children through workshops and supportive initiatives.

    The future of Jamaica is dependent on the mental health and wellbeing of its children and youths. The child and youth development projects aim to equip children with the necessary skills to cope and understand and improve their physical and emotional wellbeing.

    Volunteers can assist with a variety ...

    About the program

    The future of Jamaica is dependent on the mental health and wellbeing of its children and youths. The child and youth development projects aim to equip children with the necessary skills to cope and understand and improve their physical and emotional wellbeing.

    Volunteers can assist with a variety of tasks which include providing one-to-one support for learning difficulties, facilitate workshops and focus groups, and manage behavior and conflict resolution training.

    All volunteers will need to undertake an online training course.  The course consists of a 10-hour training program to prepare you for your time in Jamaica. It will help you understand the local context and settings in addition to highlighting some of the common challenges faced by children and youth. This course is compulsory, as you will be delving into mental health and will need to be fully aware of the dangers, challenges, and risks of working in Mental health.

    If you are a graduate or current student studying psychology, social work, or international development, this project is perfect. The experience develops your practical skills while providing you with an in-depth knowledge of how individuals socialise in the Caribbean.

    To volunteer on this project, you are required to have one year of experience in psychology, social work, or international development. Volunteers are also required to complete an online 12-hour accredited training program in managing challenging behaviors in Jamaican schools before volunteering. The program is delivered independently by UK-based Neuro Champions and costs an additional US$200.


    Typical day

    First day

    You will be taken to your placement by a local team member and introduced to the placement staff.

    Weekdays

    You may have a morning or afternoon shift, or both, and can expect to work a minimum of 3 hours, Monday through Friday. Start time and daily workload depends on your chosen project. A ...

    Typical day

    First day

    You will be taken to your placement by a local team member and introduced to the placement staff.

    Weekdays

    You may have a morning or afternoon shift, or both, and can expect to work a minimum of 3 hours, Monday through Friday. Start time and daily workload depends on your chosen project. A typical daily schedule would be as follows:

    • 7:30 AM   Breakfast at the volunteer accommodation (Self Prepared)
    • 8:00 AM   Travel to placement to join local placement staff and begin work on your project.
    • 12:00 PM Break for lunch.1:00 PMWork at the placement commences if you have been assigned with an afternoon shift.
    • 3:30 PM   You are free to travel back to the volunteer house to relax, go sightseeing or do some shopping.

    Volunteers Volunteer activities for Child and Youth Development include:

    • One to One support for learning difficulties
    • Community outreach and educational programs
    • Manage and facilitate workshops around conflict resolution  


    Free-time activities

    V2 organises trips that highlight the best of Jamaican culture. Volunteers can trek through the island's stunning Blue Mountain (some say you can see Cuba on a clear day!), climb the beautiful Dunn's River waterfalls, and explore the city of Kingston, amongst many other options. We are always on the ...

    Free-time activities

    V2 organises trips that highlight the best of Jamaican culture. Volunteers can trek through the island's stunning Blue Mountain (some say you can see Cuba on a clear day!), climb the beautiful Dunn's River waterfalls, and explore the city of Kingston, amongst many other options. We are always on the look out for new trips and excursions and we are open to suggestions from volunteers. We can also help volunteers organise solo trips, if they wish.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Education Requirements

    Psychology, Social Work at level

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    Proof of Vaccination against Covid-19, proof of education and CV

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Other Skills

    Relevant experience in group management, conflict resolution, psychology, social work

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 09:00 - 15:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by V2 Volunteer & Vacation

    • Orientation & training
    • Volunteer project
    • Airport pick-up
    • Breakfast
    • Accommodation
    • 24/7 staff support
    • Professional recommendation letter on completion of project

    Airport Pickup at Sangster International Airport

    Please book your flights to arrive at the Sangster International Airport (MBJ) which is the closest airport to the volunteer accommodation. Airport pick up is provided on Sundays only. When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and transported to the volunteer accommodation (around 1.5 - 2 hours away).

    Accommodation

    Volunteers are accommodated alongside other international volunteers in a dormitory-style volunteer house. Living is comfortable in the volunteer house with electricity, running water, WiFi and western bathrooms. There is no air-conditioning in the accommodation, however, fans are provided. Bedrooms are comprised of single bunk beds and you can expect to share a room with one to three other volunteers of the same gender. You can request a single room subject to availability and additional cost. 

    Food & Beverages

    A basic daily breakfast (toast, spreads, cereal, milk, tea and coffee) you’re free to help yourself to these each morning at the volunteer house.For volunteers who would like to have their dinners catered for, a home-cooked weekly dinner plan (Monday - Friday) is available for US$65 per week.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay. We assist you to find cheap flights to Jamaica. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Jamaica provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Jamaica you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Jamaica. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    The V2 volunteer program orientation begins on the first and third Monday of each month and volunteers need to arrive in Jamaica on the Sunday before orientation.  Please book your flights to arrive at the Sangster International Airport (MBJ) which is the closest airport to the volunteer accommodation. Airport pick up is provided on Sundays only.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    4 weeks (min. stay) 1,335€
    5 weeks 1,558€
    6 weeks 1,780€
    7 weeks 2,003€
    8 weeks (max. stay) 2,225€
    Average fees 305€/week

    Program fees

    305€ per week 4 - 8 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    4 - 8 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with V2 Volunteer & Vacation during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    V2 Volunteer & Vacation

    Brilliant 4.7 rating (17 reviews)

    Agency - founded in 2013

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Excellent response rate

    Coordinated by

    Jade

    Spoken languages: English

    About the project

    V2 Volunteer & Vacation combines volunteering programs that respond to local concerns with a unique vacation experience in the Caribbean.

    Meet your organization

    Experience the Caribbean

    Feel the rhythm of the Caribbean! Join us for an amazing volunteering experience on the islands of Jamaica or Trinidad and Tobago. Discover their natural beauty and stunning landscape while supporting a community project, connecting with local people and giving back.

    V2 partners with community-led sustainable projects to offer volunteers enriching, meaningful and rewarding experiences coupled with an authentic Caribbean vacation.

    We welcome volunteers from all over the world with varied skills, experiences and educational backgrounds. Make your next holiday count!

    The Team

    We are a dynamic team with vast experience working with charities and development organisations. We have extensive local connections in Jamaica and Tobago and we are committed to providing the best experience and service for our volunteers.​

    We work closely with our partners and volunteers through a process based on shared principles, collaboration, mutual trust and respect for the environment. We make a positive contribution to the communities served by our programmes at every stage.

    We also have local staff in both Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago who work with us whenever our programmes take place.

    Why take a volunteering vacation?

    Little else can enhance the learning experience like a volunteer project abroad! Volunteering naturally brings out your confidence and independence, while offering the opportunity to learn and have fun.

    Whether you are most interested in the work experience or simply the adventure, volunteering with V2 will bolster your academic credentials with invaluable first-hand involvement in the communities on the stunning islands of Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago.

    1. Life Experience

    A gap year does not have to be a year long. Two weeks can be all it takes to gain insight into a country and its people. Not only will the experience you gain overseas be life-enhancing, but you will develop invaluable life skills and knowledge to boost your professional prospects.

    2. A Unique Opportunity 

    Combining a volunteering experience with a vacation gives you the best of both worlds: you will delve deep into local culture and support local organisations whilst experiencing the islands that bring millions of tourists every year

    3. Make an Impact 

    We partner with local organisations to ensure V2 volunteers make a positive impact. Find out more on how you are supporting local communities (Link to how you contribute

    4. Feel Supported 

    Whether you are an intrepid explorer or new to independent travel, always travel with trustworthy, reliable operators. As specialists in creating short-term placements, V2 offers pre-departure and ongoing support. We are on hand for information, advice or help so that you are never stuck.

    5. Explore a Caribbean Island

    These small, renowned islands offer amazing attractions, extraordinary scenery, and a vibrant culture.  Most visitors stay behind the walls of large hotels chains, reluctant to experience the real Caribbean. The V2 experience allows you to get to know Jamaica and Tobago off the beaten track.

    Who Can Volunteer?

    At V2 Volunteer & Vacation we welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, nationalities, and ages.  We are great believers in cultural exchange, we appreciate the diversity that our volunteers bring to our programmes.  We also tailor each programme so that all of our volunteers, regardless of age, level of formal education or work experience, are able to contribute effectively whilst also learning from the partner organisation and most importantly contributing to a great cause

    Alongside organising fulfilling and productive volunteering placements, V2 cater for adventurers, explorers, and those looking to relax on one of the Caribbean’s many beautiful beaches.  Whilst no one is obligated to join in on the trips and excursions, we arrange a wide range of activities, from laid-back cooking classes and beach trips to energetic mountain treks and tubing through rivers in the rainforest.

    So whether you’re a student, a recent graduate, looking for a sabbatical from work or a retiree who wants go on a holiday with a difference, we have the perfect experience waiting for you; just click through the menu above to see why a V2 Volunteer & Vacation is right for you.

    Students

    Volunteering with V2 will bolster your academic credentials with invaluable first-hand involvement in the communities of the stunning islands of Jamaica and Tobago.

    You can choose from a wide range of programmes including coral reef conservation, sea turtle conservation, teaching, equine therapy and veterinary and animal care.  We tailor each project to suit each volunteer so that you can be sure you’re contributing in the best way possible.  We also have staff on-hand to support you every step of the way. 

    We understand how nerve-wracking it can be to take your first solo trip abroad.  We’re always available before departure to contact our volunteers so that you can be assured that you’re in safe hands, and we organise a webinar so that you can familiarise yourself with your chosen destination and our safety protocols.  All of our accommodation providers have Internet installed so that you can keep your loved ones up to date on your adventures, and we give all of our volunteers a mobile phone so that they can stay connected with V2 staff and volunteers on the island. 

    Professionals

    Sometimes people need to do something different, take a break from their daily routine, or stop for a moment and take stock of what they want to do next.

    V2 can help! Rather than staying behind the walls of hotel chains, the V2 experience allows you to get to know Jamaica and Tobago off of the beaten track. You will partner with local organisations to make a positive impact, combining a rewarding volunteering experience with a vacation in two of the world’s natural paradises. We encourage professionals to volunteer so that they can use the skills they have gained in the workplace to help our partner organisations achieve their goals, and to further their own professional development by learning from their Caribbean colleagues. 

    Mature Volunteers

    Gap years are not just for students and young people; you’re never too old to get out there and experience new and exciting things. Retirement can allow for time to be given to exploring, relaxing and sharing skills acquired over the years within an environment chosen by you. The Caribbean has islands of great natural beauty, warm climates, and vibrant community life.

    Volunteering through V2 allows for close interaction with projects within the very heart of the communities, whilst also offering all the relaxation and cultural experiences of a Caribbean holiday. Get involved with marine conservation, equine therapy, or teaching, using your invaluable life-long skills or learning completely new ones. From day one you will find that it is an inspiring, interesting and rewarding experience.

    Here at V2 we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all package holidays. We understand that older volunteers have the experience and skill sets that are much needed on our projects and we strive to tailor each V2 experience to fit each volunteer.  We match our volunteers and their skill sets to our programmes; what you will do will depend on your strengths.  If you are a teacher, you can lead a classroom by yourself.  If you work in management or are a natural leader, you can head up a community development project and direct younger volunteers.

    17 reviews · rating4.7

    Anna Germer rating5

    2022 at Teaching Assistant & Education Help

    Was a volunteer teacher for a month and I’ve never had so much fun! Everybody were so sweet and welcoming, other volunteers, teachers and kids at school alike and I just felt completely home! If you’re thinking of going I would definitely recommending just doing it - best decision I ever ...
    Niklas Burri rating4.6

    2020 at Animal Care

    I really enjoyed my time with V2 Volunteering. Because I had to quarantine in the first 1-2 weeks, there was little to do by the house, yet the company of the two lovely dogs Flicks & Blacks, Mark, Jade and Miss Fay it was not too bad, even though it got boring sometimes. The accommodation was a ...
    Sherie rating4.8

    2017 at Veterinary Medicine Trainee

    Jamaica was without a doubt one of the best experiences of my life. Fantastic and friendly people, amazing food and music in every corner. It nerver gets boring. ..
    John rating4.6

    2017 at Veterinary Medicine Trainee

    International volunteering in particular is truly charatcer building as you are so far from your comfort zone and you have to adapt to whatever comes your way. I have learned and experienced a lot through volunteering which I will never forget and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for ...
    I have found volunteering an extremely valuable experience in developing my skills and employability. Volunteering benefits the volunteer, the organisation and community you are working for. It allows you to give back whilst developing personally. ..
    Annette Bonneau rating4.8

    2016 at Veterinary Medicine Trainee

    I was very hesitant to go on my own to Tobago even though I have travelled extensively. I was very impressed with the whole set up from the get go. The team were very professional and actually cared about our well being whilst on the program. I would love to go again and am planning my next ...

    Location

    Americas > Caribbean > Jamaica > St. Mary

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