General Description

This House was originally set up to offer advice and support to pregnant women with the HIV virus, but over the years it has branched out. It now runs a community center in Parque Patricios, southern Buenos Aires, which is attended by children aged 6-16 whose lives are affected by the HIV virus, be it directly or indirectly through a family member who has the virus. The center places a stress on education and offers classes on English, computing, Physical Education, sexual education, and several others. 

Tasks

There is a lot of structure in this project, which really helps volunteers settle in, adjust to their new environment, and become familiar with how the organisation is run. The children come each day to have lunch, and during this time the volunteer can also eat and keep the children company. Afterwards, there will be a short space of time where the children can either relax or play before the classes and other structured activities begin at 14.00.

During this time, the volunteer can join in with the sessions and thus offer support to the children as they learn, or they can set up their own sessions if they feel they have a skill or interest they would like to share with the group.

Key Information & Benefits

This center provides help to children who need special care including, children whose parents are ill, children whose parents have died and children with HIV/AIDS. Volunteers interested in providing health advice about the virus are always welcome.

Schedule

Flexible; Monday to Friday 1 - 5 pm

Spanish Level Required

High Intermediate

Minimum Stay

8 weeks

Restrictions

Not available during the months of December, January and February (summer break).

Location

Parque Patricios, Buenos Aires.

Transportation

To get to the house you can take the colectivo (línea 118) which goes to Parque Patricios and will drop you near to the center. The fare is ARS 1.20 - remember that you will need coins to travel on the buses here in Buenos Aires! On your first day you will be accompanied to the center, either by a coordinator or a fellow volunteer to make sure that are familiar with the route.

Local Support

 Fernanda, our coordinators is based at the center where you will be working, therefore, help and advice will always be on hand. As well as being a popular option amongst fellow volunteers, this project offers a great support network, given the size and diversity of the organization.