Literacy and Community Development: Uganda

Program overview

This program is placed in the rural regions of central and southwestern Uganda, with two community partners – the Kitengesa Community Library (KCL) and the Ibanda Community Library (ICL). The Ibanda Community Library, placed 1 km from Ibanda, was initiated in 2014. Its main objective is to promote a reading culture and provide reading materials in surrounding community schools where there aren’t currently reading materials available. Additionally the community library provides an opportunity for interactive learning with people from different cultures and educational backgrounds to build social networks. This is crucial for learning and interaction for community development.

The second community partner that interns will be working with is the Kitengesa Community Library. KCL aims to promote reading culture and provide a space for interactive learning. Such opportunities provide a conducive atmosphere to learn about different cultures, conduct research and build a social network. All of which are crucial for learning and interacting within community development. The library is the heart of the community, providing a space for many different groups to come together and interact.

Interns will be working with the ICL on promoting reading culture, engaging with local community members, as well as assisting in everyday library programs and activities.

Interns will work with the library staff in reading activities in the surrounding schools as well as assisting with organizational work within the library.

These placements will require a high degree of initiative and problem-solving – you will be given the vision but will need to work closely with ICL and KCL staff to figure out how to work toward that vision, with very few resources. This will involve building effective relationships within the communities, developing a plan in collaboration with library/resource centre staff, and developing strategies for these projects.

The aim of these partnerships is to provide assistance to the libraries while learning about community development in Uganda. This will also develop understanding of the role of community spaces in providing necessary resources to various demographics, understanding the complex issues surrounding poverty and community development, and to appreciate the social, economic, and cultural factors relevant in development projects and international engagement.

Program dates

Date	Activity
November 13, 2016	Program application is open and will close when full. Applications will be considered in the order they are received until a final deadline of November 13, 2016.
January – April 2017	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (all successful applicants will be expected to be in attendance at all sessions)
June – August 2017	12 week International placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through (exact dates TBD)
September – October 2017	ISL Post-placement reflection sessions and Public Engagement Presentation

**Please note these dates may be adjusted but will be confirmed prior to offer.

Pre-departure overview

Pre-departure learning sessions take place in the term before you leave for your placement; it prepares you for an intensive International Service Learning experience. During pre-departure you will:

Create a learning & development plan and review this with your ISL Advisor
Explore learning topics at regular meetings with your placement team

Accommodations

You will be staying with a host family in modest accommodations.

After you’ve returned (Post-placement)

After you’ve returned, you’ll regroup, reflect and work at unpacking the intensive experience you’ve had. The schedule of post-placement activities includes:
A debrief with advisors and peers (September 2017)
Presenting at a Public Engagement event (October 2017)

Program cost

We expect the program fee to be approximately $3,700 – $4,000. Fees may be adjusted prior to offer and include:

Room and board
Pre-departure learning sessions
Transportation to and from your placement
Orientation in Uganda
Debrief and workshop part way through your placement
Community partner management fee
ISL project management fee

All expenses not covered in program costs are the responsibility of the student.

Costs not included are: airfare, visas, vaccinations, local transportation while in country, transportation from project site to airport at the end of the placement, personal items, and daily incidentals.

A return ticket to Uganda costs approximately $2,000 – $2,500. You will be required to bring your own laptop.

Application

To apply for a Summer 2017 placement, please submit an online application. Contact an advisor beforehand if you have any questions about the program or your eligibility before applying. The application consists of basic questions and essay questions. Set aside at least two hours to complete the application.

Selection process + dates

Once you submit your application, the application will be reviewed. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview. After interviews, you will be notified of a decision; successful candidates will then be sent an offer letter with further details on the program and detailed instructions on how to accept. You will have approximately one week after receiving the offer letter to accept and pay a program deposit. Your selection into the ISL program includes meeting eligibility requirements, as well as your initial application and your performance in the interview.

Don’t wait to apply. Limited spaces exist!

Health and Mobility (Programming and Assessment): Uganda

When applying please note your preference for the Health and Mobility program.

Program dates

Date	Activity
March – May, 2015	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (multiple sessions – approximately 35 hours in total)
June- August, 2015	12 week international placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through
September – October, 2015	ISL post-placement reflection sessions and public engagement event

Please note these dates may be adjusted but will be confirmed before you receive an offer of a placement.

Program overview

The community partner for Health and Mobility Programs in Uganda is TASO (The AIDS Support Organization). TASO is a grassroots non-governmental organization, started 26 years ago by a group of dedicated individuals wanting to create a support network for people living with HIV/AIDS. Originally framed as a support group, TASO has now grown to have 11 centers across the country, providing health care, psychosocial services, sensitization programs, and sustainable livelihoods programming to over 90,000 clients. TASO is internationally recognized for the work that it has done and the piece that it has played in combatting HIV in Uganda. The long term vision for TASO is to see a world without AIDS. Part of their work is to help prevent the rate of new infections in the country, but a significant portion of their work is aimed at supporting those with the virus (PLWHIV) to ‘live positively’. Through the sustainable livelihood programming and counseling support, TASO is able to provide communities with the tools to live full lives with the virus and prevention of transmission.

Working alongside staff at a national HIV/AIDS NGO, you will explore how HIV/AIDS intersects with highly mobile and/or remote populations in a specific region. For example, the placement may include assisting in working collaboratively on the development of low-resource interventions to become part of outreach programming that takes place during clinic days and training sessions. You will also work with staff to design assessment and evaluation tools to understand if interventions are positively impacting the desired target audiences.

This placement will require a high degree of initiative and problem-solving – you will be given the vision but will need to work closely with TASO staff to figure out how to work toward that vision, with very few resources. Ideally, you will have some experience in assessment methods coupled with self-initiative and problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn!

Leading up to your placement (Pre-departure)

Pre-departure learning sessions take place in the term before you leave for your placement; it prepares you for an intensive International Service Learning experience. During pre-departure you will:

Create a learning & development plan and review with your ISL Advisor
Explore learning topics at regular meetings with your placement team

Accommodations

You will be staying with host families in modest accommodations. In many cases you will need to take public transportation to reach your work site.

After you’ve returned (Post-placement)

After you’ve returned, you’ll regroup, reflect and work at unpacking the intensive experience you’ve had. The schedule of post-placement activities includes:

A full day to debrief with advisors and peers (September 2014)
Presenting at an International Development Symposium (October 2014)

Program cost

We expect the program fee to be approximately $3,450 – $3,900*. Fees include:

Room and board
Pre-departure learning sessions
Transportation to and from your placement**
Orientation in Uganda
Debrief and workshop part way through your placement
Community partner management fee
ISL project management fee

Airfare, visas and vaccinations are not included in the program fee. A return ticket to Uganda costs approximately $2,000 – $2,500. You will be required to bring your own laptop.

*Fees may be adjusted prior to offer
**You will also need to arrange your own transportation from the project site back to the airport at the end of the placement

Awards

If accepted into the ISL program, you will be automatically assessed for the $1,500 International Service Learning Award.

Health and Community Development (Impact Assessment): Kenya

When applying please note your preference for the Health and Community Development program.

Program dates

Date	Activity
July – September, 2014	Rolling application deadline – apply early as programs will close as they fill up
September 21st, 2014	Final application deadline
October – December 2014	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (multiple sessions – approximately 35 hours in total)
January 15th – April 10th, 2015	12 week international placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through
April – June, 2015	ISL post-placement reflection sessions and public engagement event

Program overview

The community partner for Health and Community Development in Kenya is Carolina For Kibera (CFK). CFK is a organization founded in Kibera (a large informal settlement in Nairobi, Kenya). CFK is attached to Tabitha clinic, a hospital that serves the community of Kibera. CFK is undertaking a number of health initiatives in the area, and evaluating the success and impact of the implementation is a regular part of the project cycle. CFK currently works with more than 100 community health workers. Students will be working alongside these health workers in the area. The specific nature of the assessment will be determined closer to the date.

Students interested in this placement should be ready to work in a community that faces extreme poverty. As change in health and social behaviors take time, students should also be prepared to work alongside the organization with the recognition of this process and the long-term goals, rather than expecting to see immediate change.

This organization works on three major areas of development in the community: Heath, Social, and Economic development. Within these areas CFK runs a number of programs, such as a sports association and economic ventures. Depending on the workload of the project, students may also be able to get involved with some of the other programs.

This placement will require a high degree of initiative and problem-solving – you will be given the vision but will need to work closely with CFK staff to figure out how to work toward that vision, with very few resources. Ideally, you will have some experience in assessment methods coupled with self-initiative and problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn!

Leading up to your placement (Pre-departure)

Pre-departure learning sessions take place in the term before you leave for your placement; it prepares you for an intensive International Service Learning experience. During pre-departure you will:

Create a learning and development plan and review with your ISL Advisor
Explore learning topics at regular meetings with your placement team

Accommodations

You will be staying with host families in modest accommodations. In many cases you will need to take public transportation to reach your work site.

After you’ve returned (Post-placement)

After you’ve returned, you’ll regroup, reflect and work at unpacking the intensive experience you’ve had. The schedule of post-placement activities includes:

A full day to debrief with advisors and peers (April 2015)
Presenting at an International Development Symposium (May-June 2015)

Program cost

We expect the program fee to be approximately $3,900*. Fees include:

Room and board
Pre-departure learning sessions
Transportation to and from your placement**
Orientation in Kenya
Debrief and workshop part way through your placement
Re-entry debrief and public engagement facilitation
Community partner management fee
ISL program management fee

Airfare, visas and vaccinations are not included in the program fee. A return ticket to Kenya costs approximately $2,000 – $2,500. You will be required to bring your own laptop.

*Fees may be adjusted prior to offer
**You will also need to arrange your own transportation from the project site back to the airport at the end of the placement

Awards

If accepted into the ISL program, your eligibility will be automatically assessed for the $1,500 International Service Learning Award.

Disability Advocacy Programs and Services: Swaziland

When applying please note your preference for the Disability Programs and Services program.

Program dates

Date	Activity
July – September, 2014	Rolling application deadline – apply early as programs will close as they fill up
September 21st, 2014	Final application deadline
October – December 2014	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (multiple sessions – approximately 35 hours in total)
January 15th – April 10th, 2015	12 week international placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through
April – June, 2015	ISL post-placement reflection sessions and public engagement event

Program overview

The community partner for Disability Advocacy Programs and Services in Swaziland is Greater Hope Swaziland, which is a non-governmental organization within Swaziland that works toward a vision where all children with disabilities achieve their utmost potential in life and are valued as full and equal members of the community. Within Greater Hope target communities, participants will work closely with Greater Hope Swaziland staff to develop advocacy projects aimed at integrating and improving the rights of people living with disabilities in Swaziland.

This placement will require a high degree of initiative and problem-solving – you will be given the vision but will need to work closely with Greater Hope Swaziland staff to figure out how to work toward that vision, with very few resources. Ideally, you will enter this experience with a high level of problem-solving skills and a willingness to learn!

Leading up to your placement (Pre-departure)

Pre-departure learning sessions take place in the term before you leave for your placement; it prepares you for an intensive International Service Learning experience. During pre-departure you will:

Create a learning & development plan and review with your ISL Advisor
Explore learning topics at regular meetings with your placement team

Accommodations

You will be staying with host families in modest accommodations. In many cases you will need to take public transportation to reach your work site.

After you’ve returned (Post-placement)

After you’ve returned, you’ll regroup, reflect and work at unpacking the intensive experience you’ve had. The schedule of post-placement activities includes:

A full day to debrief with advisors and peers (April 2015)
Presenting at an International Development Symposium (May-June 2015)

Program cost

We expect the program fee to be approximately $3,450*. Fees include:

Room and board
Pre-departure learning sessions
Transportation to your placement**
Orientation in Swaziland
Debrief and workshop part way through your placement
Re-entry debrief and public engagement facilitation
Community partner management fee
ISL program management fee

Airfare, visas and vaccinations are not included in the program fee. A return ticket to Swaziland costs approximately $2,000–$2,500. You will be required to bring your own laptop.

*Fees may be adjusted prior to offer
**You will also need to arrange your own transportation from the project site back to the airport at the end of the placement

Awards

If accepted into the ISL program, your eligibility will automatically be assessed for the $1,500 International Service Learning Award.

Children’s Rights and Advocacy Programs and Services: Swaziland

When applying please note your preference for the Children’s Rights and Advocacy Programs and Services program.

Program dates

Date	Activity
July – September, 2014	Rolling application deadline – apply early as programs will close as they fill up
September 21st, 2014	Final application deadline
October – December 2014	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (multiple sessions – approximately 35 hours in total)
January 15th – April 10th, 2015	12 week international placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through
April – June, 2015	ISL post-placement reflection sessions and public engagement event

Program overview

The community partner for Children’s Rights and Advocacy programs in Swaziland is SOS Children’s Villages. SOS Children’s Villages is a non-governmental organization within Swaziland that will identify target communities to place UBC students. Within these target communities, SOS has partnered with community-based organization to build capacity in mutually identified areas. ISL participants will work with a SOS target community to address priority issues based on the local priorities. This may include assisting youth with job search strategies, SOS training sessions focused on strengthening families impacted by HIV/AIDS, assisting in SOS educational settings for children (including teaching) and developing regional advocacy programs with SOS staff.

This placement will require a high degree of initiative and problem-solving – you will be given the vision but will need to work closely with SOS staff to figure out how to work toward that vision, with very few resources. Ideally, you will enter this experience with a high level of problem-solving skills and a willingness to learn!

Leading up to your placement (Pre-departure)

Pre-departure learning sessions take place in the term before you leave for your placement; it prepares you for an intensive International Service Learning experience. During pre-departure you will:

Create a learning & development plan and review with your ISL Advisor
Explore learning topics at regular meetings with your placement team

Accomodations

You will be staying with host families in modest accommodations. In many cases you will need to take public transportation to reach your work site.

After you’ve returned (Post-placement)

After you’ve returned, you’ll regroup, reflect and work at unpacking the intensive experience you’ve had. The schedule of post-placement activities includes:

A full day to debrief with advisors and peers (September 2014)
Presenting at an International Development Symposium (October 2014)

Program cost

We expect the program fee to be approximately $3,450*. Fees include:

Room and board
Pre-departure learning sessions
Transportation to and from your placement**
Orientation in Swaziland
Debrief and workshop part way through your placement
Community partner management fee
ISL project management fee

Airfare, visas and vaccinations are not included in the program fee. A return ticket to Swaziland costs approximately $2,000 – $2,500. You will be required to bring your own laptop.

*Fees may be adjusted prior to offer
**You will also need to arrange your own transportation from the project site back to the airport at the end of the placement

Awards

If accepted into the ISL program, you will be automatically assessed for the $1,500 International Service Learning Award.

Community Capacity Development through Education: Bolivia

When applying please note your preference for the Community Capacity Development through Education program.

Date	Activity
January – April, 2014	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (multiple sessions – approximately 35 hours in total)
June – August, 2014	12 week international placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through
September – October, 2014	ISL post-placement reflection sessions and public engagement event

Please notes these dates may be adjusted but will be confirmed before you receive an offer of a placement.

Program overview

Jaraña, one of our community partners in Bolivia, is a non-governmental organization that was founded in 1992 with the goal of contributing to socio-economic development in rural populations of Bolivia through projects focused on agriculture, education, sanitation, and the promotion of women’s rights. During this placement you will work at Jaraña’s Centre in Marquina, an outlying district of Cochabamba. You will assist in the development of education programs for children, youth, and adults from impoverished families with the goal of increasing the capacity of community members in key areas. Projects may also include building capacity for staff at the Centre in Marquina. Jaraña has eight paid staff and is directed by an assembly of Bolivian professionals of indigenous backgrounds who grew up in rural areas of the Bolivian highlands. Jaraña has two offices from which they run distinct programs. Their Marquina (Cochabamba) centre is a base for educational programming for indigenous people from the surrounding community. Jaraña´s water, sanitation, and agriculture work is focused in small communities in the arid highland region of Oruro, the location of their second office. In this part of the country, the lack of water is a major limiting factor for agriculture production and safe drinking water is often unavailable.

Jaraña’s work in Oruro is much more developed than in Marquina. They have strong relationships with nearby communities and the staff are primarily based out of the Oruro office; development of the centre in Marquina is a newer priority for the organization. Jarana would like to use the presence of UBC students to catalyze the development of the centre; this is seen as a longer-term project, in which stronger relationships with community members in Marquina will be established with sustainable educational programs that help to build the capacity of local community members. Projects will likely include:

Implementing computer classes in the compound for staff, women/parents and community members and youth that access the libraries for their homework. Currently Jaraña has 15 – 20 computers on-site. There’s a high level of interest from staff and community members to gain basic computer and internet literacy skills. This program could include identifying and training local teachers, developing or refining training/learning modules for different abilities, piloting fee for service modules, and actually delivering some classes. Modules might cover typing, word/excel and internet research and use. Various modules were piloted by UBC students in Summer 2013; it will be important to build on the lessons learned from that experience. A key part to this program will be to build toward sustainability of the classes with Jaraña.
Designing and implementing basic English classes for staff and students to supplement some of the English lessons at schools. The level of English learning is basic, as more emphasis is on Spanish, Aymara then English.
There may be the opportunity to design and implement ‘winter break camps’ for students, depending on the existing skills and experiences of UBC students. This possibility will be explored by Jaraña in conversation with local schools.

Intermediate or advanced Spanish is a strong asset. A strong willingness to learn Spanish (through conversation and self-directed study) is required.

Leading up to your placement (Pre-departure)

Pre-departure learning sessions take place in the term before you leave for your placement; it prepares you for an intensive International Service Learning experience. During pre-departure you will:

Create a learning & development plan and review with your ISL Advisor
Explore learning topics at regular meetings with your placement team

Accomodations

You will be staying in modest hostel-style accommodations. These accommodations are located at Jaraña´s’s main headquarters in Marquina. Meals will be provided; some cooking may be required.

After you’ve returned (Post-placement)

After you’ve returned, you’ll re-group, reflect, and work at unpacking the intensive experience you’ve had. The schedule of post-placement activities includes:

A full day to debrief with advisors and peers (September 2014)
Presenting at an International Development Symposium (October 2014)

Program cost

We expect the program fee to be approximately $3,225*. Fees include:

Room and board
Pre-departure learning sessions
Transportation to and from your placement**
Orientation in Bolivia
Debrief and workshop part way through your placement
Community partner management fee
ISL project management fee

Airfare, visas and vaccinations are not included in the program fee. A return ticket to Bolivia costs approximately $1,000 – $1,500. You will be required to bring your own laptop.

*Fees may be adjusted prior to offer.

**You will also need to arrange your own transportation from the project site back to the airport at the end of the placement.

Awards

If accepted into the ISL program, you will be automatically assessed for the $1,500 International Service Learning Award.

Environmental Education and Community-Based Natural Resource Management: Costa Rica

When applying please note your preference for the Environmental Education and Community-Based Natural Resource Management program.

Program dates

Date	Activity
March – May, 2015	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (multiple sessions – approximately 35 hours in total)
June- August, 2015	12 week international placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through
September – October, 2015	ISL post-placement reflection sessions and public engagement event

Please note these dates may be adjusted but will be confirmed before you receive an offer of a placement.

Program overview

Our community partner in Costa Rica is ASVO (Asociación de Voluntarios para el Servicio en las Áreas Protegidas). Costa Rica has over 160 parks and wildlife refuges, which are habitats for many endangered species. With such a large area of the country needing protection, and few resources to support this effort, ASVO was formed to recruit local and international volunteers to assist local leaders in activities in four major areas: control, protection, environmental education and research. ASVO focuses on conservation projects in Costa Rica’s National Park system, as well as in coastal-marine areas that do not hold any official category of protection from the Ministry of Environment, but that are natural nesting sites for endangered sea turtle species. ASVO works as a bridge between civil society and the protected areas, engaging people in responsible actions in the conservation of the natural and cultural heritage of Costa Rica.

You will be working at the ASVO project site in Matapalo. Matapalo is a small town on the Pacific Coast; ASVO operates a turtle hatchery in Matapalo and has a house for volunteers. Part of the long-term vision for the site is to have the hatchery managed and run by the community. Integrating community members into management of protected areas has the potential to increase local commitment to conservation and enhance the capacity to protect more areas in Costa Rica. The first step toward this at Matapalo is to develop an integrated environmental education program, working particularly with the local elementary school. This would include environmental education activities that would build from grade to grade.

This placement will require a high degree of initiative and problem-solving – you will be given the vision but will need to work closely with ASVO staff to figure out how to work toward that vision, with very few resources. This will involve building effective relationships with the school, developing a plan in collaboration with ASVO staff, developing and testing environmental education activities / materials and developing content-specific teacher training resources. Your work may include the development of a recycling program in the community. Although environmental education will be your primary focus, you can also expect to participate in some of the ‘regular’ volunteer activities related to the hatchery – building / repairing the hatchery, night patrols, etc. Ideally, you will have some experience doing workshops or activities with young people, a passion for environmental education / conservation, self-initiative and problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn!

Leading up to your placement (Pre-departure)

Pre-departure learning sessions take place in the term before you leave for your placement; it prepares you for an intensive International Service Learning experience. During pre-departure you will:

Create a learning & development plan and review with your ISL Advisor
Explore learning topics at regular meetings with your placement team

Accommodations

You will be staying in very basic hostel-style accommodations shared with other ASVO volunteers. The Matapalo site is extremely busy with short-term international volunteers in July-August so you will need a high level of comfort with sharing space. All volunteers participate in cleaning and cooking activities. The beach is a five minute walk from the volunteer house.

After you’ve returned (Post-placement)

After you’ve returned, you’ll regroup, reflect and work at unpacking the intensive experience you’ve had. The schedule of post-placement activities includes:

A full day to debrief with advisors and peers (September 2015)
Presenting at an International Development Symposium (October 2015)

Program cost

We expect the program fee to be approximately $4,300*. Fees include:

Room and board
Pre-departure learning sessions
Transportation from the airport to your placement**
Orientation in Costa Rica
Debrief and workshop part way through your placement
Community partner management fee
ISL project management fee

Airfare, visas and vaccinations are not included in the program fee. A return ticket to Costa Rica costs approximately $1,000 – $1,500. You will be required to bring your own laptop.

*Fees may be adjusted prior to offer
**You will need to arrange your own transportation from the project site back to the airport at the end of the placement

Program dates

Date	Activity
Rolling Deadline until March 1st, 2015	Application intake and interviews
~ 1 week after receiving an offer letter	Acceptance and deposits are due
March – May 2015	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions
June – August 2015	12 week International placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through (exact dates TBC)
September – October 2015	ISL Post-placement reflection sessions and International Development Symposium

**Please note these dates may be adjusted but will be confirmed prior to offer.

This program will close when full. Please apply ASAP to avoid disappointment.

Application

To apply for a 2015 placement, please submit an online application. Contact an advisor if you have any questions about the program eligibility before applying. The application consists of basic demographic information and essay questions. Set aside at least two hours to complete the application.

Program overview

Leading up to your placement (Pre-departure)

Pre-departure learning sessions take place in the term before you leave for your placement; it prepares you for an intensive International Service Learning experience. During pre-departure you will:

Create a learning & development plan and review with your ISL Advisor
Explore learning topics at regular meetings with your placement team

Accommodations

After you’ve returned (Post-placement)

After you’ve returned, you’ll regroup, reflect and work at unpacking the intensive experience you’ve had. The schedule of post-placement activities includes:

A full day to debrief with advisors and peers (September 2015)
Presenting at an International Development Symposium (October 2015)

Program cost

We expect the program fee to be approximately $4,300*. Fees include:

Room and board
Pre-departure learning sessions
Transportation from the airport to your placement**
Orientation in Costa Rica
Debrief and workshop part way through your placement
Community partner management fee
ISL project management fee

Airfare, visas and vaccinations are not included in the program fee. A return ticket to Costa Rica costs approximately $1,000 – $1,500. You will be required to bring your own laptop.

*Fees may be adjusted prior to offer
**You will need to arrange your own transportation from the project site back to the airport at the end of the placement

Program dates

Date	Activity
Rolling Deadline until March 1st, 2015	Application intake and interviews
~ 1 week after receiving an offer letter	Acceptance and deposits are due
March – May 2015	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions
June – August 2015	12 week International placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through (exact dates TBC)
September – October 2015	ISL Post-placement reflection sessions and International Development Symposium

**Please note these dates may be adjusted but will be confirmed prior to offer.

This program will close when full. Please apply ASAP to avoid disappointment.

Application

Natural Areas Management Planning: Costa Rica

When applying please note your preference for the Natural Areas Management Planning program.

Program dates

Date	Activity
March – May, 2015	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (multiple sessions – approximately 35 hours in total)
June- August, 2015	12 week international placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through
September – October, 2015	ISL post-placement reflection sessions and public engagement event

Please note these dates may be adjusted but will be confirmed before you receive an offer of a placement.

Program overview

You will be working at the ASVO Buena Vista project site. Buena Vista is a small section of the Pacific Coast near the town of Samara on the Nicoya Peninsula. Buena Vista is an important nesting site with more than 100 nests per season. Coastal areas like Buena Vista are at a high risk for development in Costa Rica for tourism and other economic activities. The site currently has limited protection from development activities and is not managed directly by the government. ASVO has had an agreement with the government for the past 8 years permitting ASVO to operate a turtle hatchery on a very small section of Buena Vista. However, this agreement will expire in two years.

ASVO’s long-term vision is for the site to be designated as an official natural reserve managed by ASVO. Working toward this vision, you will be working alongside ASVO staff including head biologist Roberto Solano to put together a Natural Areas Management Plan for submission as part of a proposal to the Government of Costa Rica for official designation of the Buena Vista site as a natural reserve. This will include doing a baseline description of the site (general site description, biophysical features, abiotic features, significant natural and cultural features, etc.), identifying potential management objectives and strategies for water resources, habitat quality, wildlife, vegetation and human use, and drafting strategies for ongoing monitoring and management. Your scope of work and priority tasks will be defined with ASVO head biologist; however, you will need to show a high degree of initiative in problem-solving, initiating effective communication and working collaboratively with ASVO staff at head office and on-site. The results of your work will be used in a proposal to the Government of Costa Rica for official designation of the Buena Vista site as a natural reserve. Although development of the Land Use Management Plan will be your primary focus, you can also expect to participate in some of the ‘regular’ volunteer activities related to the hatchery – building / repairing the hatchery, night patrols, etc.

This program is open to all UBC Vancouver students and requires specialized knowledge and invites applications from candidates in Biology, Forestry, SCARP, IRES and / or prior academic training in or work experience related to Natural Areas Management planning. Basic Spanish and a strong willingness to learn (through conversation and self-directed study) is strongly encouraged.

Leading up to your placement (Pre-departure)

Pre-departure learning sessions take place in the term before you leave for your placement; it prepares you for an intensive International Service Learning experience. During pre-departure you will:

Create a learning & development plan and review with your ISL Advisor
Explore learning topics at regular meetings with your placement team

Accommodations

You will be staying in very basic hostel-style accommodations shared with other ASVO volunteers. All volunteers participate in cleaning and cooking activities. The volunteer accommodation is right on the beach at Buena Vista.

After you’ve returned (Post-placement)

After you’ve returned, you’ll regroup, reflect and work at unpacking the intensive experience you’ve had. The schedule of post-placement activities includes:

A full day to debrief with advisors and peers (September 2015)
Presenting at an International Development Symposium (October 2015)

Program cost

We expect the program fee to be approximately $4,300*. Fees include:

Room and board
Pre-departure learning sessions
Transportation from the airport to your placement**
Orientation in Costa Rica
Debrief and workshop part way through your placement
Community partner management fee
ISL project management fee

Airfare, visas and vaccinations are not included in the program fee. A return ticket to Costa Rica costs approximately $1,000–$1,500. You will be required to bring your own laptop.

*Fees may be adjusted prior to offer
**You will need to arrange your own transportation from the project site back to the airport at the end of the placement

Program dates

Date	Activity
Rolling deadline until March 1st, 2015	Application intake and interviews
~ 1 week after receiving an offer letter	Acceptance and deposits are due
March – May 2015	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions
June – August 2015	12 week International placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through (exact dates TBC)
September – October 2015	ISL Post-placement reflection sessions and International Development Symposium

**Please note these dates may be adjusted but will be confirmed prior to offer.

This program will close when full. Please apply ASAP to avoid disappointment.

Application

Program overview

Leading up to your placement (Pre-departure)

Pre-departure learning sessions take place in the term before you leave for your placement; it prepares you for an intensive International Service Learning experience. During pre-departure you will:

Create a learning & development plan and review with your ISL Advisor
Explore learning topics at regular meetings with your placement team

Accommodations

After you’ve returned (Post-placement)

After you’ve returned, you’ll regroup, reflect and work at unpacking the intensive experience you’ve had. The schedule of post-placement activities includes:

A full day to debrief with advisors and peers (September 2015)
Presenting at an International Development Symposium (October 2015)

Program cost

We expect the program fee to be approximately $4,300*. Fees include:

Room and board
Pre-departure learning sessions
Transportation from the airport to your placement**
Orientation in Costa Rica
Debrief and workshop part way through your placement
Community partner management fee
ISL project management fee

Airfare, visas and vaccinations are not included in the program fee. A return ticket to Costa Rica costs approximately $1,000–$1,500. You will be required to bring your own laptop.

*Fees may be adjusted prior to offer
**You will need to arrange your own transportation from the project site back to the airport at the end of the placement

Program dates

Date	Activity
Rolling deadline until March 1st, 2015	Application intake and interviews
~ 1 week after receiving an offer letter	Acceptance and deposits are due
March – May 2015	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions
June – August 2015	12 week International placement including a facilitated workshop approximately mid-way through (exact dates TBC)
September – October 2015	ISL Post-placement reflection sessions and International Development Symposium

**Please note these dates may be adjusted but will be confirmed prior to offer.

Application

Secondary Education- Community Field Experience

When applying please note your preference for the B.Ed practicum.

Program dates

Date	Activity
September 28, 2014	Deadline to apply
October 1, 2014	Interview date for placement. You must be in attendance at the interview day for a combination of group and individual interviews.
January – April 2015	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (multiple sessions)
April 27- May 15, 2015	International placement
Upon return 2015	ISL post-placement re-entry debrief and public engagement conference

Eligibility

Open to all B. Ed. UBC Vancouver students (secondary stream)

Program overview

Salama Shield is a partner with UBC International Service Learning programs who has been working in Uganda for 20 years. Salama Shield works with communities in sub-Saharan Africa to address urgent needs in the areas of health, education, microfinance, water supply and food production. The student volunteer teacher placements are nested within a larger collaboration whereby students from various disciplines at UBC are placed in three month internships on projects identified by Salama Shield.

You will work with Salama Shield within their educational programming in Lyantonde, Uganda. Students will work with teachers in various aspects of the program assisting with the inevitable challenges of education in a developing area. You will do this through classroom teaching and planning with the organization staff and educators. You will need to be sensitive to the fact that many youth in this area may come from vulnerable backgrounds and as such you will need to highly collaborate with Salama Shield Programme Management and the teachers to understand both the progress of the class and individual students without making assumptions. Personal student profiles will not be shared unless there is pertinent information that any teacher would need to know.

Student teachers should prepare to be flexible in work hours, some days may include regular classroom teaching, and other days may include breaks during the day and tutoring at the end of regular school hours.

Stand Tall Training Centre is a new partnership with the International Service Learning Program in Kampala, Uganda. The Training Centre is a non-formal education centre for elementary level schooling that provides for children in the community who are unable to attend regular school programs. The student volunteer teacher placements will be to work with the school’s teachers on lesson plans and school activities for the learners.

The school ranges in activities from classroom studies to vocational training. While the school is classifies as a non-formal education institute, it includes the general curriculum to that students can write entrance examinations for secondary school. The school trains students on the care and upbringing of poultry, cows, and pigs, as well as agricultural practices. Other skills such as jewellery making and sewing are also taught. The school is divided into levels that cover the primary education years up to secondary school. It is divided into levels to remove the grade labels for older students that are placed in lower level classes. The school is also split up into families with teachers as parents and learners of students. In these families the leaners participate in school debates, and learning sessions as part of creating a friendly home environment.

You will work with teachers in various aspects of this programming through classroom teaching and planning with the school staff. Student teachers should prepare to be flexible in work hours, some days may include regular classroom teaching, and other days may include breaks during the day and tutoring at the end of regular school hours.

Students from the Secondary Stream should note that this is not a secondary school, but has older students who have been previously unable to complete primary, and are now working on completing their examinations to enter secondary school.

Leading up to your placement (Pre-departure)

The pre-departure learning program is designed to prepare you for an international service learning placement. This will include:

Pre-departure learning sessions taking place over the academic term leading up to departure
Creation of a learning and development plan, reviewed with an ISL Advisor
Participant-led events/ presentations
Facilitated meetings with your placement team to explore learning topics

Living environment

You will live with host families in modest conditions. In most cases, you will take public transport to and from your placement.

After you’ve returned (Post-placement)

After you’ve returned, you’ll re-group, reflect, and work at unpacking the intensive experience you’ve had. The post-placement activities you will participate in include:

A full-day to debrief with advisors and peers
Presentation at a public engagement event

Program cost

We expect the program fee to be approximately $1,900*. Fees include:

Pre-departure learning sessions
Room and board
Transportation to your placement**
Orientation in Uganda
Community partner management fee
ISL project management fee

*Fees may be adjusted before offer. Program costs vary primarily due to cost of living expenses per country and region.

Additional Information

All expenses not covered in program costs are responsibility of the student. Costs not included are airfare, visas, vaccinations, local transportation while in country, and transportation from the project site back to the airport at the end of the placement and personal items and daily incidentals.

Awards

If accepted in to the ISL program you will be automatically assessed for eligibility for the $1,500 International Service Learning Award.

Application Dates

Now accepting applications for the 2015 program. Intake will occur through an application and interview process.

Application deadline
September 28, 2014

Education Practicum (Secondary) – Little Rock Academy: Enhanced Teaching Practicum

When applying please note your preference for the B.Ed practicum.

Program dates

Date	Activity
September 28, 2014	Deadline to apply
October 1, 2014	Interview date for placement. You must be in attendance at the interview day for a combination of group and individual interviews.
January – April 2015	Orientation and pre-departure learning sessions (multiple sessions)
April 27- May 15, 2015	International placement
Upon return 2015	ISL post-placement re-entry debrief and public engagement conference

Eligibility

Open to B.Ed. UBC Vancouver students focusing on early primary education (pre-school-grade one) and Special Education teachers in training.

Program overview

Community Partner

Little Rock IECD Centre is a new partner for UBC International Service Learning programs but has been working in the Nairobi neighborhood of Kibera since 2003. Little Rock IECD Centre offers inclusive early childhood education programs for around 320 vulnerable and disabled children in the area who attend the kindergarten schooling and 250 graduates who attend the after school program, addressing the need for a strong start to education. In addition to the general education program, the school offers inclusive programming for children in the community who are deaf and are living with special needs, such as autism, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, mentally challenged and others integrating them into the school system and providing occupational therapy. The school also provides programs such as, Nutrition care, the After School Program, Day care, Income generating activities and a Mentorship program. The school’s vision is, “An inclusive society where all children are given equal opportunities in early childhood education for a better life and impacting the community positively.”

Placement

You will work with teachers in various aspects of the program assisting with the inevitable challenges of working in the context of education in an informal settlement and impoverished area. You will do this through classroom teaching and planning with the school staff. Furthermore, you will work with the teachers and students in the afterschool program tutoring grade school students, who are Little Rock Academy alumni. You may also provide assistance to the Occupational Therapist who works on site.

Leading up to your placement (Pre-departure)

The pre-departure learning program is designed to prepare you for an international service learning placement. This will include:

Pre-departure learning sessions taking place over the academic term leading up to departure
Creation of a learning and development plan, reviewed with an ISL Advisor
Participant-led events/ presentations
Facilitated meetings with your placement team to explore learning topics

Living environment

You will live with host families in modest conditions in the Ayany neighborhood. You will likely be able to walk to and from your placement, and in some cases, will take public transport.

After you’ve returned (Post-placement)

After you’ve returned, you’ll re-group, reflect, and work at unpacking the intensive experience you’ve had. The post-placement activities you will participate in include:

A full-day to debrief with advisors and peers
Presentation at a public engagement event

Program cost

We expect the program fee to be approximately $1,900*. Fees include:

Pre-departure learning sessions
Room and board
Transportation to your placement**
Orientation in Kenya
Community partner management fee
ISL project management fee

*Fees may be adjusted prior to offer.

** Airfare, visas and vaccinations are not included in the program fee. Flights to Kenya generally range between $1,500 – $2,000.

Awards

If accepted in to the ISL program you will be automatically assessed for eligibility for the $1,500 International Service Learning Award.

Application Dates

Now accepting applications for the 2014 program. Intake will occur through an application and interview process.

Application deadline: October 1, 2013