Volunteer in Switzerland - United Planet - 12 months

Program Description

Right in the heart of Europe, Switzerland lies between Austria, Germany, France, Italy and Lichtenstein. The beautiful Alps fill the lower two-thirds of the country and amaze volunteers; they soar up an incredible 15,782 feet! Switzerland’s northern region is known as the midlands and is filled with rolling hills, lakes and meadows, and is the home of most of the population and businesses. In Switzerland, volunteers are exposed to a variety of languages – German, Italian, French and others.

United Planet is the US and Canadian partner of the International Cultural Youth Exchange, or ICYE. As a volunteer in Switzerland, you will be hosted by ICYE Switzerland, ICYE’s Swiss partner organization. Get ready to be “more than a tourist” as part of Switzerland’s volunteer exchange program.

Volunteers in Switzerland can explore the cities of Geneva, the European headquarters of the United Nations, Basel, with its yearly festival of lights, and Lausanne, with its historical Cathedral.

Highlights

Social Work: Volunteer at a school or organization that works with children who come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Working with the Disabled: Volunteers work at a center that empowers its members by helping them become more self-sufficient, and organizing activities that involve the local community.

Working with the Elderly: Provide company and a listening ear, and help with various daily activities.

Cultural Administration: Assist in a cultural center with administrative tasks and help immigrants understand and integrate.

Radio and Theater: Volunteers support the staff at local radio and theater organizations. Volunteers are required to speak fluent German for this project.

Qualifications

Must be 18- 30 years old and a citizen or resident of the United States or Canada

Volunteer Types

What`s Included

- Extensive pre-departure preparation, including a training weekend in New Hampshire with United Planet staff
- Food and lodging in your host country
- Airport transfers
- Emergency medical insurance
- In-country orientation upon arrival and ongoing support and supervision throughout your Quest
- Language training
- Mid-year camp (for 1 year volunteers) and final camp
- Monthly stipend for incidental expenses