RWANDA / Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village
The Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village (ASYV) is a safe and structured residential community for orphaned and vulnerable youth in Rwanda. The Village, which opened its doors to its first class of students in December 2008, is a place of hope, where traumatized youth can “dry their tears” (Agahozo) and “live in peace” (Shalom). In December 2011, the fourth class will enter the Village, for a total of 500 students.
Within this caring environment, the rhythm of life is restored, so that youth who have been through great trauma find a home and a community, as well as a place to learn and become leaders for tomorrow. The youth who come to live and learn in the ASYV will grow into healthy adults who are not only able to care for themselves and their families, but who are also committed to making their community, their country, and indeed the world a better place.
A unique and ambitious project, the ASYV will serve as a model for caring for the disrupted lives of youth across Rwanda, Africa, and beyond, to wherever there are traumatized youth who need a place to call home.
ASYV is currently recruiting dedicated volunteers to spend one year volunteering at our youth village in Rwanda. The service year begins in December 2011. Volunteers directly engage with the ASYV community, using their skills and talents to help this blossoming community.
Volunteers spend one year living and working in the Village in collaboration with permanent Village staff. Volunteer fellowship covers the cost of the flight to Rwanda, health insurance, emergency evacuation insurance, room and board, and a small monthly stipend. Volunteers are expected to integrate into the community and build close relationships with both students and staff. Most volunteers will be assigned to a family of incoming youth to mentor throughout the year. Volunteers will be asked to spend at least 10 hours on behalf of the village at public engagements and other speaking events upon their departure from the Village.
To be considered, please submit a completed application with three recommendations. Application can be downloaded at http://asyv.org/volunteer.html
Eligible candidates go through a comprehensive screening process, including phone interviews and in-person individual interviews.
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