WHERE WILL YOU WORK?
We offer 2-3 month, 5-6 month, and 10-12 month programs in a variety of countries abroad. Participants get the opportunity to work and spend time in any number of different countries, experiencing significant personal growth and responsibility while making connections that will span both the globe, and a lifetime.

HOW OLD DO YOU HAVE TO BE?
This program is ideally suited for those who are between 18 and 30, although older people have played a significant role on this program in the past.

WHAT WILL IT COST AND HOW DOES ONE APPLY?
For the answer to these aspects, please contact AFS Interculture South Africa for the latest updated information at info-southafrica@afs.org or 011 447 2673 if you are a South African.

WHAT CAN THE AFS COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAM OFFER YOU?
·3-12 months of personal growth and development in countries on every continent (except North America)
· An opportunity to volunteer abroad with an organization, which addresses local needs. Projects vary by hosting country and participant’s interest. Projects can include working with street children, environmental issues, orphanages, community development programs, elementary schools and disabled care centers.
· A chance to learn a foreign language while living with a local host family. Language training where applicable.
· An intercultural learning experience while developing practical skills as a volunteer.
· An international support structure with offices in each country, language courses, pre-departure and arrival orientations, and a local AFS support network.

WHAT DOES THE FEE COVER AND WHAT CAN I EXPECT?
- Round trip airfare, orientations, language training, and health insurance. Check with your AFS representative for the fees for your preferred destination.

- Before you leave you will receive detailed information on your placement and host family and a pre-departure orientation that will help you adjust to your host country.

HOW OFTEN DOES THE COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAM RUN?
Depending on availability for each destination country, the programmes run from the beginning of the year departing January-March, and/or the middle of the year departing July-September

WHAT WILL I GAIN FROM WORKING ON THIS PROGRAMME?
Young participants taking part in this informal learning program will have the opportunity to be exposed to and gain from a myriad of cultural experiences. Although experiences will differ based on country, community, project, and personal approach, young people can be confident that they will experience:
• cultural growth and friendship with people from significantly different cultural backgrounds
• a broader understanding of issues on a global scale
• a stronger commitment to world-wide development and what this means for the world moving forward
• an new and evolving understanding about life in different countries
• increased language skills in a non-native tongue

While this is not a formal academic program in the traditional sense, the learning and exposure that occurs through practical vocational experiences will be invaluable in ones life going forward, not too mention connections and friendships that will span a lifetime.

WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED TO APPLY FOR THIS PROGRAMME? • between ages 18 to 30+ years old • flexible and adaptable approach to life • committed to learning from other cultures and listening to people in other parts of the world • willing to live with a host family (or institution) in sometimes basic housing
• • willing to fully immerse oneself enter the life of the local community • willing to live within appropriate limited financial means • physically and mentally healthy • ready to work conscientiously with people from a vast array of backgrounds

DO I NEED ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS?
There are no specific or formal academic requirements or achievements for the broad program. Although some specific placements and industries may prefer those with specific experience or skill sets, what is important is a thirst for knowledge, an open mind, and a passion for understanding issues in different cultural contexts. Being a strong student of formal qualifications will never hurt, but the broad profile of a young adult looking to both learn and make an impact are what is most important.

Language Skills?
The expectation is that one will have sufficient English skills to enable one to communicate abroad. Effort to attain basic competency in the local language before arrival is strongly encouraged, as this will provide one with the key to true immersion and understanding in the local culture.

WHAT KIND OF PLACEMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?
Placements could be in the following sectors: education and training, schools, health, environment, social welfare, community development, media, youth, democracy and political monitoring, and women’s development groups. The national AFS office has more up to date details.

Still have questions? Contact us!