My Nonprofit Reviews

I spent 12 weeks working with Cross Cultural Solutions in Brazil, Salvador and also 6 weeks in the South Africa,Cape Town program. Both program were excellent, but my favorite was definately the Brazil program.


Initially, i was looking for a break in my life, and researched all the volunteer programs. Cross Cultural caught my eye; i also met a past volunteer from CCS who lives in San Francisco, who gave me more information on the program. What stood out to me was the cultural immersion aspect that Cross Cultural offers. The staff in Brazil have built relationships with the local community, and truly want the best experience for the volunteer as well as the placement. Its a two way street.The management at CCS Brazil are extremely professional, kind, caring and above all honest. Quite simply, they became my family for 12 weeks - from the housekeeper Lulu and cook Maria(like my second mothers!); Vini and Vivi management; security guards Nando and Jo; driver Ivan - the list is really endless.


I worked in an HIV/AIDS center for 3 months, and also taught English. I was struggling at first with my HIV placement because i did not know how to cope ; it was a very intense placement especially when you do not speak Portuguese, plus you are not sure how you can help. But after a while i grew comfortable, and CCS staff really helped and supported me by listening . Ultimately and ironically, i really feel that even though i was volunteer - the people that i have met and was helping really were helping me the whole time. It is a great feeling.

I literally flew back from South Africa CCS yesterday night, but felt it was important to write this review on Brazil CCS because i feel so strongly about this program. I have the utmost respect for my Brazil family and know that they have made an impact on my life. I could not have been luckier to have chosen this specific program.

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