from 668€

Brilliant 4.7rating (17)

Social & Community Development Facilitator

location
1 - 4 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Brilliant 4.7  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Especially suitable

Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Groups
50+

About the program

Assist in advocacy, organizing events, leading workshops and much more in Jamaica.

About the Program

Many communities in Jamaica are plagued by poverty, poor housing, overcrowding, low literacy rates, high levels of unemployment and a lack of appropriate sanitation. Community development agencies and local groups bring local residents together and encourage them to take initiative ...

About the program

About the Program

Many communities in Jamaica are plagued by poverty, poor housing, overcrowding, low literacy rates, high levels of unemployment and a lack of appropriate sanitation. Community development agencies and local groups bring local residents together and encourage them to take initiative and improve their physical environment and socioeconomic opportunities. 

As a volunteer you will work with the community to identity their needs, help them voice their concerns and work to improve their livelihoods. You will create asset maps to help identify the key issues affecting the community, promote equality and social inclusion, and organise events like workshops and community fairs on education and literacy skills, life skills, and vocational training to boost residents' chances to be employed.

Webinar

Volunteers are encouraged to think about their time overseas and how they can adapt to the culture where they will be staying.  The webinar is a chance for volunteers to ask any questions and for us to address any concerns before the adventure begins.

Orientation upon Arrival

Volunteers will have a one day orientation session that will cover the following topics:

  • How to adapt to a new culture and understand cultural differences
  • Local knowledge (local amenities, language skills, and embassies & consulates)
  • Personal safety and crime awareness
  • Crisis management, including how to handle medical emergencies, security risks, and natural disasters
  • V2 policies including complaints and code of conduct
  • Specific training for volunteering role

Training and Support

Both V2 and our partner organisation will support you throughout your placement. V2 conducts Health and Safety checks to ensure that volunteers are placed in a suitable and safe working environment. Our partner organisation will provide orientation and training sessions on arrival so that you will feel comfortable carrying out your duties. Each volunteer will be assigned a Mentor/Project Supervisor to guide them through everything they need to know.

Safety 

At V2, we take safety seriously. The V2 team are very well-acquainted with the islands we operate on and the highest priority for our local staff is volunteer safety. Their job is to ensure that risk assessment and health and safety checks are conducted before volunteers are placed. We conduct three main risk assessments:

  • Accommodation
  • Placement organisation
  • Third party providers

Carrying out these assessments helps V2 identify risks and mitigate their impact. These are reviewed after all V2 Experiences and any findings that may impact the success of our operations are addressed.

By the end of this placement you will have achieved:

  • field experience in community and social development
  • enhanced knowledge of the Jamaican political system and civil society
  • international experience of successfully run local projects


Typical day

First day

You will be taken to your placement by a local team member and introduced to the placement staff.

Weekdays

You may have a morning or afternoon shift, or both, and can expect to work a minimum of 3 hours, Monday through Friday. Start time and daily workload depends on your chosen project. A ...

Typical day

First day

You will be taken to your placement by a local team member and introduced to the placement staff.

Weekdays

You may have a morning or afternoon shift, or both, and can expect to work a minimum of 3 hours, Monday through Friday. Start time and daily workload depends on your chosen project. A typical daily schedule would be as follows:

  • 7:30 AM   Breakfast at the volunteer accommodation (Self Prepared)
  • 8:00 AM   Travel to placement to join local placement staff and begin work on your project.
  • 12:00 PM Break for lunch.1:00 PMWork at the placement commences if you have been assigned with an afternoon shift.
  • 3:30 PM   You are free to travel back to the volunteer house to relax, go sightseeing or do some shopping

Volunteer activities for Community Facilitators include:

  • Governance: Work with community groups to effectively plan and carry out activities
  • Research: Create asset maps for communities so the organisation can better utilize the resourses that they have locally and to determine what needs to be improved
  • Community Development: Assist community groups with writing project proposals for community projects and carrying out those projects

 


Free-time activities

When you are not busy volunteering, V2 arranges a vacation package, allowing you to do some of the fun touristy things that the Caribbean has to offer. Climb the world famous Dunn River Falls, relax on James Bond beach, sip Bob Marley cocktail and learn the latest reggae moves. Jamaica has some of ...

Free-time activities

When you are not busy volunteering, V2 arranges a vacation package, allowing you to do some of the fun touristy things that the Caribbean has to offer. Climb the world famous Dunn River Falls, relax on James Bond beach, sip Bob Marley cocktail and learn the latest reggae moves. Jamaica has some of the best tourist attractions in the region and we can take you there!


Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 18 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

Language Skills

You need to speak English (fluently)

Education Requirements

Social Sciences at Completed at least the first year of bachelors degree level

Criminal Background Check

required

Required Documents

CV;Criminal Background Check

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 09:00 - 15:00

What's Included

What's Included

Services by V2 Volunteer & Vacation

  • Orientation & training
  • Volunteer project
  • Airport pick-up
  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • 24/7 staff support
  •  

Airport Pickup at Sangster International Airport

Please book your flights to arrive at the Sangster International Airport (MBJ) which is the closest airport to the volunteer accommodation. Airport pick up is provided on Sundays only. When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and transported to the volunteer accommodation (around 1.5 - 2 hours away)

Accommodation

Volunteers are accommodated alongside other international volunteers in a dormitory-style volunteer house. Living is comfortable in the volunteer house with electricity, running water, WiFi and western bathrooms. There is no air-conditioning in the accommodation, however fans are provided.

Bedrooms are comprised of single bunk beds and you can expect to share a room with one to three other volunteers of the same gender.

Food & Beverages

A basic daily breakfast (toast, spreads, cereal, milk, tea and coffee) you’re free to help yourself to these each morning at the volunteer house. For volunteers who would like to have their dinners catered for, a home-cooked weekly dinner plan (Monday - Friday) is available for US$40 per week.

Internet Access

Good access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay. We assist you to find cheap flights to Jamaica. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Jamaica provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in Jamaica you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Jamaica. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

The V2 volunteer program orientation begins on the first and third Monday of each month and volunteers need to arrive in Jamaica on the Sunday before orientation.  Please book your flights to arrive at the Sangster International Airport (MBJ) which is the closest airport to the volunteer accommodation. Airport pick up is provided on Sundays only.

Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

1 week (min. stay) 668€
2 weeks 935€
3 weeks 1,157€
4 weeks (max. stay) 1,380€
Average fees 506€/week

Program fees

506€ per week 1 - 4 weeks Age 18 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES


Duration

1 - 4 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with V2 Volunteer & Vacation during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


Meet your organization

V2 Volunteer & Vacation

Brilliant 4.7 rating (17 reviews)

Agency - founded in 2013

Verified by Volunteer World

  Excellent response rate

Coordinated by

Jade

Spoken languages: English

About the project

V2 Volunteer & Vacation combines volunteering programs that respond to local concerns with a unique vacation experience in the Caribbean.

Meet your organization

Experience the Caribbean

Feel the rhythm of the Caribbean! Join us for an amazing volunteering experience on the islands of Jamaica or Trinidad and Tobago. Discover their natural beauty and stunning landscape while supporting a community project, connecting with local people and giving back.

V2 partners with community-led sustainable projects to offer volunteers enriching, meaningful and rewarding experiences coupled with an authentic Caribbean vacation.

We welcome volunteers from all over the world with varied skills, experiences and educational backgrounds. Make your next holiday count!

The Team

We are a dynamic team with vast experience working with charities and development organisations. We have extensive local connections in Jamaica and Tobago and we are committed to providing the best experience and service for our volunteers.​

We work closely with our partners and volunteers through a process based on shared principles, collaboration, mutual trust and respect for the environment. We make a positive contribution to the communities served by our programmes at every stage.

We also have local staff in both Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago who work with us whenever our programmes take place.

Why take a volunteering vacation?

Little else can enhance the learning experience like a volunteer project abroad! Volunteering naturally brings out your confidence and independence, while offering the opportunity to learn and have fun.

Whether you are most interested in the work experience or simply the adventure, volunteering with V2 will bolster your academic credentials with invaluable first-hand involvement in the communities on the stunning islands of Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago.

1. Life Experience

A gap year does not have to be a year long. Two weeks can be all it takes to gain insight into a country and its people. Not only will the experience you gain overseas be life-enhancing, but you will develop invaluable life skills and knowledge to boost your professional prospects.

2. A Unique Opportunity 

Combining a volunteering experience with a vacation gives you the best of both worlds: you will delve deep into local culture and support local organisations whilst experiencing the islands that bring millions of tourists every year

3. Make an Impact 

We partner with local organisations to ensure V2 volunteers make a positive impact. Find out more on how you are supporting local communities (Link to how you contribute

4. Feel Supported 

Whether you are an intrepid explorer or new to independent travel, always travel with trustworthy, reliable operators. As specialists in creating short-term placements, V2 offers pre-departure and ongoing support. We are on hand for information, advice or help so that you are never stuck.

5. Explore a Caribbean Island

These small, renowned islands offer amazing attractions, extraordinary scenery, and a vibrant culture.  Most visitors stay behind the walls of large hotels chains, reluctant to experience the real Caribbean. The V2 experience allows you to get to know Jamaica and Tobago off the beaten track.

Who Can Volunteer?

At V2 Volunteer & Vacation we welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, nationalities, and ages.  We are great believers in cultural exchange, we appreciate the diversity that our volunteers bring to our programmes.  We also tailor each programme so that all of our volunteers, regardless of age, level of formal education or work experience, are able to contribute effectively whilst also learning from the partner organisation and most importantly contributing to a great cause

Alongside organising fulfilling and productive volunteering placements, V2 cater for adventurers, explorers, and those looking to relax on one of the Caribbean’s many beautiful beaches.  Whilst no one is obligated to join in on the trips and excursions, we arrange a wide range of activities, from laid-back cooking classes and beach trips to energetic mountain treks and tubing through rivers in the rainforest.

So whether you’re a student, a recent graduate, looking for a sabbatical from work or a retiree who wants go on a holiday with a difference, we have the perfect experience waiting for you; just click through the menu above to see why a V2 Volunteer & Vacation is right for you.

Students

Volunteering with V2 will bolster your academic credentials with invaluable first-hand involvement in the communities of the stunning islands of Jamaica and Tobago.

You can choose from a wide range of programmes including coral reef conservation, sea turtle conservation, teaching, equine therapy and veterinary and animal care.  We tailor each project to suit each volunteer so that you can be sure you’re contributing in the best way possible.  We also have staff on-hand to support you every step of the way. 

We understand how nerve-wracking it can be to take your first solo trip abroad.  We’re always available before departure to contact our volunteers so that you can be assured that you’re in safe hands, and we organise a webinar so that you can familiarise yourself with your chosen destination and our safety protocols.  All of our accommodation providers have Internet installed so that you can keep your loved ones up to date on your adventures, and we give all of our volunteers a mobile phone so that they can stay connected with V2 staff and volunteers on the island. 

Professionals

Sometimes people need to do something different, take a break from their daily routine, or stop for a moment and take stock of what they want to do next.

V2 can help! Rather than staying behind the walls of hotel chains, the V2 experience allows you to get to know Jamaica and Tobago off of the beaten track. You will partner with local organisations to make a positive impact, combining a rewarding volunteering experience with a vacation in two of the world’s natural paradises. We encourage professionals to volunteer so that they can use the skills they have gained in the workplace to help our partner organisations achieve their goals, and to further their own professional development by learning from their Caribbean colleagues. 

Mature Volunteers

Gap years are not just for students and young people; you’re never too old to get out there and experience new and exciting things. Retirement can allow for time to be given to exploring, relaxing and sharing skills acquired over the years within an environment chosen by you. The Caribbean has islands of great natural beauty, warm climates, and vibrant community life.

Volunteering through V2 allows for close interaction with projects within the very heart of the communities, whilst also offering all the relaxation and cultural experiences of a Caribbean holiday. Get involved with marine conservation, equine therapy, or teaching, using your invaluable life-long skills or learning completely new ones. From day one you will find that it is an inspiring, interesting and rewarding experience.

Here at V2 we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all package holidays. We understand that older volunteers have the experience and skill sets that are much needed on our projects and we strive to tailor each V2 experience to fit each volunteer.  We match our volunteers and their skill sets to our programmes; what you will do will depend on your strengths.  If you are a teacher, you can lead a classroom by yourself.  If you work in management or are a natural leader, you can head up a community development project and direct younger volunteers.

17 reviews · rating4.7

Cecilia Unknown rating4.4

2015 at Social & Community Development Facilitator

V2 Volunteering and Vacation gave me the possibility of experience real Jamaica. Within the scenario of International Development Jamaica is not given the importance it deserves. Through V2 I had instead the possibility to discover and understand Jamaica's problems and Jamaican's needs and then to ...
This was my 2nd time visiting Jamaica and I had a great time first visit but felt I didn't get to see the real Jamaica as it was very Hotel/ Resort based. So when I came across V2 it sounded perfect for what I was looking for in terms of seeing a new side of Jamaica and of course getting to work ...
I recently volunteered on the Community Development program with V2 Volunteers in Jamaica. Volunteering with s social development agency gave me the opportunity to be involved in community projects to help improve facilities for local people. I was involved in the planning of the community meetings ...
The V2 Volunteers program was a very enriching experience as a whole. The opportunity to be involved in an overseas community based program has really opened up a whole new world to me and aided in my growth as a person. V2 were very accommodating to all of my needs such as taking me to explore ...
My experience with V2 was truly incredible and particularly useful for realizing what I would like to pursue as a career and developed my interest in community development even further. Jamaica is an amazing country, which in many cases remains misunderstood, but through V2 and my work for the ...
Volunteering in Jamaica through V2 was perhaps the best decision that I made! The staff was very pleasant and always ready to assist me even through the process of getting enrolled in the program. I believe that my extensive volunteer experience through the community development program, really ...

Location

Americas > Caribbean > Jamaica > St Mary

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