Volunteer for the Dominican Republic Education And Mentoring (DREAM) Project!

The DREAM Project, a 501c-3 nonprofit organization, works to provide a higher standard of education for the underprivileged children in the Dominican Republic. Our Volunteer Program gives students, teachers, and qualified individuals the opportunity to work in DREAM sponsored schools.

Our volunteers work with children born into poverty and provide additional support for Dominican teachers, who are themselves victims of the same poor educational system. From simply introducing a book into a classroom, organizing a small soccer game, or actively serving as a role model, volunteers help provide new opportunities to the children.

See our Job Descriptions to learn about our current volunteer positions. To apply, please download our volunteer application. Send the completed application, along with the $40 application fee and letters of recommendation to:

The DREAM Project

PO Box 4136

Ithaca, NY 14852

Program Description

Who are DREAM volunteers?
Our volunteers are highly motivated and skilled individuals. The men and women who join the DREAM Project reflect the rich diversity of a global community in race, ethnic background, age and religion. DREAM volunteers come from different personal backgrounds and unique perspectives, yet all are united by their common desire to help others. Meet our current volunteers.

What is the purpose of the DREAM volunteer program?
DREAM’s vision is to empower our communities through education. Our primary goal is for the communities in which we work to benefit from our volunteer program. DREAM is committed to working with the members of the communities we serve in order to expand local skills and knowledge, build up local infrastructure and ensure sustainability.

What do volunteers do?
DREAM volunteers have the opportunity to work in the areas of education and community development. DREAM volunteers are given a variety of assignments based on their experience. DREAM volunteers lead youth groups, operate libraries and computer labs, run summer camps, organize community committees, teach preschool children, offer adult education classes and train local teachers.

What are the benefits?
For the volunteers, the program offers a wide range of experiences from unique friendships and life enriching cross-cultural encounters to work experiences rarely available in highly industrialized countries. Our volunteers become immersed in our schools and our communities and have the opportunity to develop and to share their talents while serving others. The experience encourages a commitment to service that can last a lifetime.

How do I become a volunteer?
Print out and complete the following application. All applications, along with the $40 application fee and recommendations, must be mailed to the DREAM Project, PO Box 4136, Ithaca, NY 14852. Applications must be completed in full.

Requirements

Time Commitment:

Summer Camp:	June 28 - July 31, 2009
Academic School Year:	June 28, 2009* - May 30, 2010

*Please note that August 24th, 2009 starting date is available if the volunteer cannot participate in the Guzman Ariza Summer School & Camp. However, it is highly recommended that the volunteer participate in the program as it serves as an integral part of volunteer orientation. Fees will not be adjusted for those opting to start at the later date.

DREAM volunteers must commit to the full academic year or the entire summer session.

Language:
Spanish proficiency is recommended, and at least an advanced knowledge of Spanish is required. The level of proficiency will be used to determine available placements. Spanish proficiency is a tremendous asset and native speakers are encouraged to apply.

Application Deadlines

Summer Camp:	February 1st, 2009
Academic School Year:	March 1st, 2009

Costs

The cost of the program depends on site location and accommodations. Depending on availability, most volunteers will either be placed in Dominican homes or personal residences in local hotels with the following program fees:

• Summer School & Camp: $1,800 for five-week program
• Cabarete (personal residences): $12,000 for academic year*
• Sabaneta, Alta Gracia, & Caraballo (Dominican homestays): $8,000 for academic year*

*Please note: If paid in full, the acadmic year is reduced to $10,000. Volunteers are also encouraged to use fundraising to help pay their fee. Volunteers have recommended using the World Teach fundraising guide, located here, as well as our coffee fundraiser.

The cost of the DREAM volunteer program includes pickup and drop off at the Puerto Plata airport, accommodations, meal stipend, all required training workshops, oversight at the local schools, volunteer cultural excursions, and a living stipend (which is allocated to cover expenses such as cell phone use, transportation to worksites, laundry, etc.) Please note this fee does not include airfare, health insurance, or personal spending money!