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Fantastic 4.56rating (55)

Youth Care & Community Development

location
2 - 50 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Experience the Dominican style of live and chill by the rhythm of Caribbean music!
  • Gain Spanish fluency with the help of our free Spanish classes and share daily life with locals
  • Become more passionate about your studies and propel your career with international experience!

Highlights

  • Experience the Dominican style of live and chill by the rhythm of Caribbean music!
  • Gain Spanish fluency with the help of our free Spanish classes and share daily life with locals
  • Become more passionate about your studies and propel your career with international experience!
  • Make memories you never forget during weekend excursions with your fellow participants!
  • Enjoy the gorgeous beaches of Samana, climb the mountain peaks of pico Duarte and visit historical sites in Santo Domingos' colonial town!

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+
    Wheel Chairs

    About the program

    Enhance the lives of disadvantaged communities through inclusion and equal opportunities

    Community care and Early Childhood Support
    This program, developed in Samaná, provides a space to support disadvantaged communities through dedicated assistance and education. Our local team is composed of teachers, therapists, social workers, and a pedagogue, all working together to foster ...

    About the program

    Community care and Early Childhood Support
    This program, developed in Samaná, provides a space to support disadvantaged communities through dedicated assistance and education. Our local team is composed of teachers, therapists, social workers, and a pedagogue, all working together to foster community care, integration, and inclusion by combining recreation, therapy, and education.

    The program has two components:

    1. Derribando Barreras (Breaking Barriers): Where we support children, youth, and adults with disabilities through therapies, tutoring, home visits, and inclusive activities that promote development and autonomy. Occasionally, supplies, food, and medicine are provided.

    2. Rinconcito de Aprendizaje (Learning Corner): A cheerful and creative environment that boosts early childhood education through games, literacy, art, and values.

    Together, both programs build a more supportive and inclusive community where every smile counts and every volunteer makes a difference.

    Education and Inclusion
    Our priority is education and inclusion, believing that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive. Committed volunteers play a crucial role by providing personalized attention, offering tutoring sessions, and participating actively. Together with our local team, we extend our care beyond the center, conducting home visits to support beneficiaries in their own environments and promoting the early development of children without disabilities through play, creativity, and the teaching of values in our Learning Corner.

    Affective Learning Environment
    We know that many children face challenges, whether due to physical or emotional barriers or a lack of school support at home. Therefore, both in Derribando Barreras and Rinconcito de Aprendizaje, we offer an environment full of affection, motivation, and positive reinforcement. Through educational games, group dynamics, artistic activities, and individualized support, we accompany each child in their achievements. Every smile, every word learned, and every step reached is celebrated as a great victory.

    Volunteers as Agents of Change
    The engine driving our programs is our committed volunteers.

    • In Derribando Barreras, they assist with special needs in tutoring and therapies.

    • In Rinconcito de Aprendizaje, they accompany educational and recreational activities with the little ones.

    Being a volunteer is not just donating time: it is sowing hope, leaving positive footprints, and becoming an active part of a community's transformation. With just a few hours a week, you can change a life... and your own as well.

    Volunteer Activities: Derribando Barreras
    At the Derribando Barreras Care Center, we work with children and youth with disabilities or special needs, providing them with educational, therapeutic, and social accompaniment. Volunteers actively participate in activities such as:

    • Assisting in special education within the center and during home visits.

    • Supporting recreational, therapeutic, and developmental activities for children and youth with different levels of autonomy.

    • Creating teaching materials using recycling techniques to facilitate adapted learning.

    • Leading thematic workshops and providing personalized attention during services (requires basic Spanish).

    • Participating in weekly meetings to develop intervention plans and educational content.

    • Identifying individual, family, or community needs and collaborating on case studies and interventions.

    • Spending quality time with children by organizing artistic activities, singing, and dynamics that promote inclusion.

    • Collaborating on community development activities and family support during home visits

    • Organizing special events, integration activities, and community campaigns.

    • Planning workshops on disability and awareness for key groups (requires advanced Spanish).

    Volunteer Activities: Rinconcito de Aprendizaje
    Volunteers are integrated as an active part of the educational team, accompanying the children's development through playful, creative, and affective activities. Early Childhood Education - Your role is not just to assist, but to become a guide, support, and playmate. Some duties include:

    • Supporting literacy activities, helping children identify vowels, letters, and first words through games, songs, or interactive dynamics.

    • Leading or assisting in educational games and group dynamics, promoting teamwork, communication, and coexistence.

    • Guiding artistic activities such as painting, drawing, collage, or crafts, fostering imagination and personal expression.

    • Collaborating on fine and gross motor skills exercises, from movement circuits to coordination games.

    • Participating in the planning and execution of celebrations and cultural activities, decorating, entertaining, and sharing traditions with the children.

    • Creating educational materials by reusing resources and recycling techniques, strengthening creativity and sustainable learning.

    • Singing, storytelling, dancing, and sharing quality time with children to reinforce emotional bonds and trust.

    • Supporting the organization of small community or intercultural events with families and other volunteers, promoting integration and a sense of community.

    • Showing respect and assertive communication with local staff, other volunteers, and participating families.

    • Complying with agreed schedules and assuming commitments responsibly, demonstrating consistency between actions and the educational role performed.

    • Acting always with empathy, patience, and a willingness to collaborate, understanding that the environment is based on teamwork and mutual support.



    Typical day


    What to expect
    Enjoy flexible work schedules that allow you to collaborate half-day or full-day, and then relax on stunning palm-fringed beaches! Our program offers flexible commitment options starting with a minimum of 4 hours per day.

    Your dedication will have a profound impact. In Derribando ...

    Typical day


    What to expect
    Enjoy flexible work schedules that allow you to collaborate half-day or full-day, and then relax on stunning palm-fringed beaches! Our program offers flexible commitment options starting with a minimum of 4 hours per day.

    Your dedication will have a profound impact. In Derribando Barreras, you will support children with disabilities through tutoring and therapies, while in Rinconcito de Aprendizaje, you will help spark curiosity and strengthen self-esteem through play. Although the role requires commitment, it is enormously rewarding if you enjoy interacting with children.

    Volunteers are encouraged to share ideas and initiatives. Join Aldeas de Paz for an enriching experience, generating a positive impact while developing your own skills.

    • COMMUNITY SOCIAL WORK: Support families, perform community outreach, and integrate into the community using your Spanish skills.

    • COMMUNITY CARE AND DEVELOPMENT: Support parents and caregivers, promote inclusion, and raise awareness.

    • ALDEAS DE PAZ CARE CENTER (SAMANÁ): Serve children with disabilities and provide tutoring in an inclusive environment. Basic Spanish knowledge is very helpful.

    • RINCONCITO DE APRENDIZAJE: Accompany early childhood and preschool children through educational and recreational activities, promoting respect, creativity, and the joy of learning.

    Holidays 

    Summer School Holidays: Youth Care & Community Volunteers are welcome to stay during Dominican Summer School Holidays and help out at our Children Summer Camp from July 1 to 31 , 2026. No Youth care & Community activities are planned during Christmas and New Year Holidays from December 18 to January 09, 2027.

    Christmas and New Year Holidays: Volunteers and Interns who participate in Multi Media, NGO Management, Medicine & Healthcare, Dental Care, Animal Rescue are welcome to work throughout the whole year except the Christmas and New Year Holidays December 24,25, 31 and January 01, 2027. 

    Attention: Volunteers are welcome to stay at our Volunteer Guesthouse during Dominican Christmas and new year holidays! Even though working and business life comes to a halt through this two week period when the whole country is celebrating Christmas, our volunteers are welcome to celebrate Christmas and new year together with us and the Dominican people!


    Free-time activities

    Special Offer
    Enjoy free Spanish classes for volunteers and interns, focused on practical communication skills. Develop your listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills naturally. From day one, you will use Spanish in real situations through role-plays and situational dialogues that complement ...

    Free-time activities

    Special Offer
    Enjoy free Spanish classes for volunteers and interns, focused on practical communication skills. Develop your listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills naturally. From day one, you will use Spanish in real situations through role-plays and situational dialogues that complement the basic plan.

    Program Highlights

    • Immerse in the vibrant Dominican lifestyle, embracing the rhythm of Caribbean music

    • Master Spanish fluency through free classes and embrace daily life with locals.

    • Fuel your passion for learning and boost your career with international experience.

    • Create unforgettable memories with weekend excursions alongside fellow participants.

    • Relish the stunning beaches of Samana, conquer Pico Duarte's peaks, and explore Santo Domingo's historical colonial town.

    What makes the Dominican Republic and Samana unique?
    Samana, a captivating peninsula in the northeastern part of the Dominican Republic, boasts breathtaking beauty. With its lush coconut trees extending into the sea, it feels like a secluded island. The town of Samana is a picturesque and tranquil port, where friendly locals engage in tourism, agriculture, and fishing, all accompanied by the lively rhythms of Merengue, Bachata, and Salsa music. A two-kilometer-long Malecon (seaside promenade) offers delightful strolls day and night, leading to a variety of charming restaurants and bars, perfect for relaxing evenings. Surrounding the peninsula, you'll find hundreds of fantastic beaches, ready to be explored on day trips or weekend getaways. Embrace the Dominican lifestyle, enjoying the soothing rhythm of Caribbean music in this idyllic destination!

     


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level) or Spanish (basic level)

    Education Requirements

    at level

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    CV

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 09:00 - 17:30

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Costs & Benefits - Affordable Volunteering with Flexibility

    Do you dream of volunteering abroad but worry about the cost and commitment? Look no further! Aldeas de Paz offers a unique and affordable volunteer experience in the Dominican Republic, perfect for passionate individuals of all backgrounds.

    At Aldeas de Paz, we believe in making volunteer experiences accessible. We offer a transparent fee structure with an open book policy, so you know exactly where your contribution goes. Additionally we offer flexible commitment options: Start with a few weeks and extend your stay if you love it! We offer special pricing for extension weeks, allowing you to keep your options open without an extended upfront commitment!

    What's Included:

    • Seamless Arrival: Enjoy a personal welcome service and airport pick-up, followed by a free transfer to your placement location in Las Terrenas or Samaná.
    • Comfortable Accommodation: Relax in our fully equipped guesthouses, with free Wi-Fi and access to a washing machine, for a comfortable and convenient stay.
    • Language Immersion: Enhance your experience with free regular Spanish lessons throughout your placement.
    • Program Support: Benefit from a placement introduction, certificate of completion (if applicable), and potential student credit for your participation.
    • 24/7 Support: Our dedicated local staff is available for full support and backup around the clock, ensuring your safety and well-being.
    • Explore the Dominican Republic: Get access to information about exciting adventure packages and in-country travel options to make the most of your time here.
    • Financial Transparency: Open book policy ensures you understand your contribution.
    • Comprehensive Package: This includes Spanish language classes, comfortable accommodation in our fully equipped guesthouses, a dedicated program donation, and all your arrival logistics: personal welcome service, airport pick-up, bus transfer, bus fare, and a free transfer to your placement location.

    Benefits:

    • Gain valuable experience while contributing to a meaningful cause.
    • Immerse yourself in Dominican culture with on-site Spanish language classes.
    • Build lifelong friendships with fellow volunteers from around the world.
    • Enjoy a safe and secure environment in a beautiful part of the Dominican Republic.

    Ready to make a difference and explore the beauty of the Dominican Republic? By choosing Aldeas de Paz, you get a world-class volunteer experience with affordability and flexibility. Contact us today to learn more!

    Airport Pickup at Las Americas International Airport

    Stress-Free Arrival - Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. 

    Upon arrival at the airport, a friendly English-speaking driver will greet you, assist with your luggage, and ensure you have a comfortable bus ticket directly to your placement in Samaná or las Terrenas (approximately 2,5 hours). Once you arrive, our welcoming staff and fellow volunteers will be waiting to escort you to your accommodation.

    Accommodation

    Your Home Away from Home in Paradise

    Live like a local and connect with fellow volunteers at our comfortable guesthouses in stunning Samaná and Las Terrenas. Choose from shared rooms (perfect for socializing!), private rooms for more peace and quiet, or even a homestay option for a deeper cultural immersion.

    All our guesthouses offer:

    • Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected and share your experiences.
    • Laundry facilities: Pack light and explore worry-free.
    • A supportive community: Make lifelong friendships and share unforgettable memories with volunteers from around the world.

    More Than Just a Place to Stay

    Our guesthouses are more than just comfortable beds. They're a launching pad for your adventure and a hub for cultural exchange. You'll have the opportunity to bond with fellow volunteers, create lasting friendships, and contribute to a positive and respectful community.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Food & Beverages

    Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo. We assist you to find cheap flights to Dominican Republic. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Dominican Republic provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Dominican Republic you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Dominican Republic. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Costs and Benefits:
    At Aldeas de Paz, we prioritize accessibility and transparency through our open-book policy.

    • Minimum contribution: Starts at €155 per week (from the second week).

    • Included: Spanish classes, comfortable accommodation in fully equipped apartments, program donation, personalized welcome service, airport pickup, bus transfer, bus fare.

    This is included:

    • Airport welcome service & transfer to your placement location

    • Fully equipped Accommodation in Las Terrenas or Samana depending where you will be placed

    • Free WiFi & access to washing machine

    • Free regular Spanish lessons throughout your placement

    • Placement introduction, certificate & student credit

    • Full support and 24/7 backup from local staff

    • Information about adventure packages & in-country travel

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $583 per week 2 - 50 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    2 - 50 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.


    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.6
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers

    Location

    Americas > Caribbean > Dominican Republic > Santa Barbara de Samaná

    Meet your project coordinator

    Nilaya
    55
    reviews
    4.56
    Fantastic
    2001
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: Portuguese, English, German, Spanish
    Travel safely by using Volunteer World for your communication and bookings. This way, you can benefit from the Flex Option, Refund Guarantee, and Resolution Support.

    You might also be interested in

    Contact Nilaya
      Very high response rate
    Portuguese, English, German, Spanish

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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