My daughter volunteered two summers in Latin America through the East Bay Chapter. As a parent I was very impressed with the training provided to the vols. The experience she received on her two summers (one 6 week and one 8 week program) is something she will value her whole life. She left a typical 16 year old and returned with confidence and insight she could not have recieved anywhere else.
This is program is not for everyone, but it is an exceptional experience for those who participate.
I volunteered twice with this organization for 6 and 8 weeks in Latin America, undergoing extensive training before each experience. I also helped lead training of other volunteers when I returned. Amigos is a terrific organization. The training included extensive units on health and safety, cultural competency, and asset-based community development, and I felt very prepared before my trip to Latin America. The support staff of supervisors and project directors in country is extensive and well-trained. I had a very good experience with both my supervisors as well as all of my project directors and training leaders. Amigos alumni remain connected and committed to public service, and the organization does a good job partnering with existing organizations and agencies in Latin America. The programs through which American volunteers work with community youth have worked well in my experience and make the volunteers’ impact more sustainable.