Youth Athletic Program (Rio de Janeiro)

Project Summary

In the favelas (shanty towns) of Rio, where local youths get less chance to become involve in sports, volunteer to engage and inspire them to play different games. In Rio, sports not only help divert the attention of local youths away from drugs and other unwanted activities, playing games also help in the physical, social and emotional development. Sports have also been used to integrate communities and give youths motivation to succeed in schools or other activities. Our volunteers will work with vulnerable kids in the favelas where deprivation is widespread.

Volunteer Responsibilities

Volunteers will be working with local organization and schools and get involved in one many sports like volleyball, skateboarding or athletic. You will participate, organize or inspiration to these sporting events. Through sports, you will also help the youths to integrate and work for a better future. The full details of your activities will be finalized before you start the program.

Skills/Qualifications

Volunteers must be sporty and be good in athletic, volleyball or any other sports. You must also be comfortable working with youths from diverse background. Basic Portuguese is not required but recommended. Volunteers must also be flexible, open minded and resourceful.

Project Location:

This project is located in one of the largest favelas in Rio de Janeiro. These favelas were known for high crime rate but due to the police action and the police presence, the crime scene is virtually non-existence now. Poverty, however, remains entrenched in the favelas as usually it's the low-income families that settle in the favelas.

When not at the project volunteers will have plenty to do in their free time. Volunteers can soak up some sun at one of Rio's famous beaches, or go hiking in one of the largest in urban parks in the world. You can go see the wonderful views from Corcovado or Sugar Loaf. There is also excellent nightlife to experience as well as museums and theatres throughout the city. All of these activities are available through Rio's extensive public transportation system.

For safety reasons, always be aware of where you are going and the best time to go. Ask the local coordinator or trustworthy locals if ever in doubt or need more information.