Volunteer with MEJOR Communities in Peru

Founded on the idea that health creates opportunities, MEJOR Communities is a nonprofit organization that aims to create opportunities in rural areas of Peru through our health education programs and projects.

We are currently searching for individuals interested in serving as a volunteer(s) in a remote community in Peru for a minimum of six months. Our in-country partner organization, MIRHAS-Peru will provide technical/project support. Training will be provided prior to travel in the city of Portland, OR.

Position Responsibilities:

Previous volunteer(s) have trained 12 youth (ages 13-18) in various health topics, (first aid, nutrition, hygiene), leadership and project management skills, as well as peer counseling (self-esteem, communication). They have also begun the motivation and beginning stages of project planning for a youth-lead community health project. Some parenting workshops have also been completed.

The new volunteers will be continuing parent education, and supporting the youth as they carry out their elected community project, as well as completing the final evaluation of the Youth as Health Advocates project. Further responsibilities will be listed in the volunteer contract, and explained during training. The community health project will be determined by the youth prior to the end of this year.

Volunteer will pay for airfare and appropriate international health insurance, while all other costs will be covered by MEJORC (food, lodging, materials, in-country travel, etc).

Position Qualifications:

*Strong communication skills in both English and Spanish.

*1-2 years experience working in rural/remote communities. OR *1-2 years prior living experience in another country. OR *1-2 years experience in community relations and/or teaching and/or community-building.

*Applicant should be flexible, patient, and culturally aware, as well as determined, friendly, and responsible.

Please send resume and letter of interest to [email protected] by January 15, 2010 (or ASAP).

Letter of interest should clearly answer the following questions:

1) Why are you interested in this volunteer position?

2) What is your experience with working in a grassroots environment, either abroad or locally?

3) What uniquely qualifies you as an advocate for youth leadership and health opportunities in a remote village of Peru?

Position to begin June, 2010. Training start date will be May 3rd, 2010.

For more information about MEJOR Communities please visit our website www.mejorc.org or e-mail [email protected]