Social Work

Social Work volunteers will have the opportunity to gain a wide variety of hands-on experience with social work institutions working to serve children in Dominican Republic, as well as receiving a general education regarding the social programs promoted by the Dominican government. From running teamwork and self-esteem workshops in group homes, to participating in home visits to single mothers in order to promote public health, volunteers will have ample opportunity to interact with both the participants in these social programs as well as with local social work staff and volunteers.

Depending on the institution, volunteers will interact with children from 11 months to all the way up to 18 years of age. Activities can include teaching small classes on health, arts and crafts, or English; running workshops on anti-bullying, self-esteem, or similar themes; observation of government-funded social programs; assisting in planning and running of public health promotions and associated home visits; or even something simple and fun like painting a mural with the kids.

AMA staff will meet with volunteers on a weekly basis to help them plan activities at the institutions where they are working and help them locate the materials they need to provide the children at these institutions with an enriching experience as well as to help volunteers be more effective at their work sites. Although Spanish proficiency is not required for participation in this program, a basic-intermediate level in Spanish is highly recommended, as most staff and children do not speak English.