WHAT DOES THE PROJECT DO?
The reality for most children living on the streets of Peru's towns and cities is a life of constant terrifying struggle, a lack of love and affection, and an uncertain future. Over 3,500 children live on the streets of Cusco, many abandoned by families who cannot afford to feed them. But the loneliness and fear experienced by these children, forced to live on the street alone are the most painful affliction. The community development that you will be working in provides a vital lifeline for those who seek a way out of their precarious existence on the streets. You can help give them the chance of an education, and provide them with the confidence boost and attention that they so desperately crave. Meanwhile, you are sure to enjoy a gap year or year out that will be absolutely unforgettable.
WHAT WILL I BE DOING?
Whilst participating on this project, you will be engaged for the first 28 days in a range of activities, helping children who have suffered through a lack of any positive attention in their lives, and who need the stability and commitment of dedicated volunteers to enable them to progress. You will help the children with their homework, create activities and events focusing on constructive arts and crafts programmes, introduce them to drama and sports, and prepare and serve a nutritious evening meal. There is also the chance to help the English teacher, and work towards a free Frontier TEFL Certificate. What is most important is that throughout your time with the children you are showing them the support and positive direction that they crave and deserve. For these underprivileged youngsters you will be filling the role of mentor, parent, friend and so much more – an incredibly rewarding and life changing experience for both parties. Daily activities begin around 3pm, leaving you the morning free to take language lessons or explore Cusco and all it has to offer. Your working day will end at around 7pm, and you will head home to a delicious meal.
At the end of the 23 days community development phase, you will travel to Machu Picchu and spend five days trekking, where you will enjoy the challenge of tackling the Andes, visiting magnificent snow-capped mountains, traditional Andean communities, majestic waterfalls, as well as pushing yourself with the challenging physical aspect of trekking in Peru.