Design and implement your own volunteer project in one of Rio’s favelas!
Volunteers work alongside community residents to implement diverse social outreach initiatives. Volunteers will work with Community in Action staff and local community leaders, leveraging unique skills and knowledge, to design and deliver an effective outreach project based on the community’s most pressing needs.
This option provides an ideal opportunity for volunteers interested in grassroots community development and is able to commit for an extended time period (usually 3 weeks or more – depending on the project).
Individual Project Examples
- Job Training Support (resume development, interview best practices, etc.)
- Creative Design Projects (photography, videography, mural painting, etc.)
- Educational Classes (music, dance, handicrafts, science, computers, etc.)
- Yoga / meditation workshops
Requirements
Language and time period requirements may depend on project, to be discussed during the application process.
Frequency
3 days a week
Time
6 – 8 hours per day (including preparation and travel time)
Location
Favelas in Rio’s South Zone (Zona Sul) and North Zone (Zona Norte): E.g., Rocinha, Pavão-Pavãozinho, Vidigal, Complexo do Alemão, Manguinhos, Providência.
Volunteer Feedback
“I was assigned two great volunteer placement projects and appreciated Community in Action’s trust in designing my very own course for the students! I felt very welcomed and supported, and loved working with the team!” – Flo (Entrepreneurship Classes)
“I learned so much from such an inspiring community leader, the teachers, and the wonderful and bright students in the favela. It’s an experience I will never forget.” – Tasia (Computer Classes)
“This was an amazing opportunity to have, what felt like, a very authentic and special experience of Rio de Janeiro. The warmth, generosity, and hospitality from Tia Bete (a local community leader), her family, and other community residents was truly exceptional.” – Caroline (Handicraft Workshops)