Description:
This clinic specializes in the treatment of a waterborne disease closely related to tuberculosis and leprosy. After infection, the skin and soft tissue can be destroyed by ulcers. With 30 staff members, the clinic works hard to treat patients in the early stages in order to prevent long-term disability. Through community visits and education campaigns, the clinic hopes to curb the life-long affects of the ulcers.
Volunteers will be working closely with clinic staff to help with routine check-ups, work in the lab, community outreach and education campaigns, and administrative duties. Volunteers are really needed to be a positive force in the patients' lives.
Highlights:
This volunteer project an unmatched opportunity to get to know the country and its people on a personal level, and contribute to programs that are making a real difference in the lives of the Beninois people it serves. You will work side by side with Beninois on this locally designed and run project. You will stay with a carefully screened and welcoming host family, giving you insight into daily life in Benin.
Our staff in the US are experienced volunteers themselves who are happy to share their experiences and experise with prospective volunteers. Our partner staff in Benin are friendly, caring and dedicated to ensuring that all volunteers have a rewarding experience. You will be met upon arrival in Cotonou and will receive a three day orientation to Beninois culture and the project.
Qualifications / Skills Needed:
Volunteers must have some experience or study in the health field. An intermediate level of French is required. French lessons are available prior to the volunteer project for an additional fee.
Language:
French
Cost in US$: Costs start at $1,490 for a two week program
Cost Includes:
Food,
Housing,
In-country orientation/Training,
In-country staff support,
Medical insurance,
Medical services,
Pre-departure orientation/Training,
Registration fees,
Written materials abroad
and Written materials pre-departure
Experience Required: yes
Some experience/education in health care is required.
Typical Volunteer Projects:
health care
and medicine
Typical Volunteer: CCI volunteers are caring and flexible travelers who want to have a positive impact on the places and people they visit.
Age Range: 18 and over
This Program is open to
American
and Canadian
Participants.
This Program is also open to
Families, Couples and Individuals.
Typical Living Arrangement:
Home-stays
Participants Travel to Benin
Independently
Typically Participants Work
Independently
Or
in Groups
Application Process Involves:
Center for Cultural Interchange's Mission Statement: Founded in 1985, the Center for Cultural Interchange (CCI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of cultural understanding, academic development and world peace. Based in Chicago, Illinois, CCI organizes cultural exchange programs for participants of all ages, including high school abroad, independent homestay, internship, language study, eco-tours and volunteer programs in over thirty countries around the world.
Year Founded: 1985