This sporting program, while sounding simple in goal, supports lofty ambitions. By teaching at-risk youth the skills and understanding to develop a love for sport and physical activity, it is actually achieving so much more.
By promoting physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle, participating students learn about the concepts of good sportsmanship and self-esteem - critical tools and skills for preventing their involvement in the crime and violence prevalent in their communities. It keeps them busy participating in fun, positive activity and helps to keep their bodies healthy through physical activity.
Volunteers participating in the program will facilitate the learning of skills in sports such as soccer, volleyball and basketball which are offered through our partner schools. As part of physical education classes, volunteers will have the ability to coach, engage in and even develop sporting programs. Most of our partner school’s welcome new ideas for their youth athletic programs, with volunteers encouraged to bring new thinking, activities and even equipment.
While volunteers will leave the program having taught, facilitated and engaged students in sports and activity, they will also have participated in the far greater achievement of helping to improve students’ self-belief - and ultimately their lives.
Goals of this Project:
-
Improve the future prospects of youth in one of Rio’s largest shanty towns
-
Alleviate health and social issues within the Complexo do Alemão favela by engaging youth in sport today, and developing a life-long love of sport and physical activity
-
Provide free sports training to youth in sports such as soccer, volleyball, basketball (among others) and to improve their skill level and understanding and achieve their sporting goals
-
Establish an understanding between different cultures
Start Dates
This project is available year-round and programs start every SUNDAY. Volunteers can choose to participate for periods ranging from 1 week to 12 weeks. Longer stays can be arranged directly with the local team, but will be subject to availability and individual visa conditions. Spaces on this project are limited and therefore subject to availability. Early booking is recommended.
Requirements
Love Volunteers welcomes all those 18 years and over who wish to help create a brighter future for children through the power of sports. This project is best suited to those who are either pursuing a career in the field of physical education, those who wish to explore an interest in this field, or those who simply wish to share the joy of sports with the next generation. As such, the project is open to all and does not require participants to have specific education, qualifications or experience, as you will be shown everything you need to know by one of local project leaders.
Volunteers on this project will need a basic understanding of Portuguese (or Spanish) in order to communicate effectively with the children and the local project team. Applicants must have a genuine willingness to help, be fit and active, show drive and initiative, and bring a positive 'can-do' attitude. If this sounds like you, we want you on the team! Additionally, volunteers applying to join this program will be required to supply to following documentation: Emergency contact.
