Volunteer & Service Learning
Our semester programs include options for volunteer and community service opportunities. There is no better way to give back and develop a deeper cultural understanding than by doing volunteer work while abroad. Whether you decide to teach English to local elementary school students or spend time with the elderly, you will not only better your Spanish, but also make lifelong friends along the way!
Home Building Project (Un Techo)
Arcos Learning Abroad students can volunteer with the organization “Un Techo para mi País”. Un Techo is a non-profit organization run by university students and young professionals that help fight extreme poverty across Latin America. Through the construction of transitional houses, volunteers work alongside families in extreme poverty in a social inclusion process that allows them to develop as a sustainable community. You will need to either bring a sleeping bag with you for this activity or rent one in Buenos Aires. It is usually a 3-night stay.
Minimum Period: 1 weekend
Volunteer Tasks: Students volunteer with the organization “Un Techo para mi País.” While on the project students work alongside youth volunteers to construct wood homes for families in extremely poor neighborhoods on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Food for the Needy (Soup Kitchen)
We have connections with local churches who provide food to the needy and homeless. The activity is usually on a Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday evening depending on the church. For those interested, your program director will be able to assist you in getting connected with this project.
Minimum Period: 1 time
Volunteer Tasks: Volunteers meet at the local church and assist with the final preparation of the food to be distributed. The volunteers assist with taking the food to the meeting point and distributing the food to those in need.
Teaching English in a Bilingual School
We are partnered with a bilingual K-12 school in Buenos Aires. You are able to assist with after-school programming and English classes.
Minimum Period: semester commitment
Volunteer Tasks: Volunteers work under the direction of the main English teacher who organizes activities in order to assist students with learning English.
