The Academic Year Volunteer Program gives students, teachers and qualified individuals the opportunity to work in DREAM sponsored schools. Our volunteers come from all over the world to 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, teaching an English class, or actively serving as a role model, volunteers help provide new opportunities to the children throughout their school year.
Application Process
Application Deadline: August 1st, 2010
To apply, please download the year-long application. Mail completed applications along with the $40 application fee and letters of recommendations to:
The DREAM Project
35 Thasha Lane, Unit A-8
Essex Junction, VT 05452
Applications can also be faxed to the DREAM office at 815-550-1727, or scanned and emailed to info@dominicandream.org. All applications must be completed in full or they will not be reviewed! Letters of recommendation can be sent separately or included in the application.
Time Commitment
A minimum of 5 months from mid-August to mid-December, or mid-January to mid-May, but a full 10 month committment is desirable, with a 2-3 week break during the winter holidays. Year-long volunteers are also highly encouraged to participate in the summer program, at the beginning and/or end of their stay, at no additional cost.
Summer Camp: June 26 - July 30, 2011
Academic School Year: August 23, 2010 - May 27, 2011
Language
Spanish fluency is recommended, and at least an advanced knowledge of Spanish is required. You must be able to communicate effectively in Spanish with the students and fellow Dominican teachers. The level of proficiency will be used to determine available placements. Spanish proficiency is a tremendous asset and native speakers are encouraged to apply.
Program Fee
Cabarete (personal residence): $10,000 for academic year if paid in full before start of term. If an extended payment plan is needed, the cost will increase to $10,000. The cost is reduced to $5,000 for 1/2 academic year.
Caraballo (Dominican home stay): $8,000 for academic year
Fee includes pickup and drop off at the Puerto Plata airport, accommodations in a studio apartment, 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!
Volunteers are also encouraged to fundraise and solicit grants to help pay their fee. We have created a volunteer resource guide to help volunteers look for funding. Please email info@dominicandream.org for a copy of this guide. The DREAM Project does have a limited fellowship fund for those who qualify. To learn more, please visit our fellowship page. The fee may also be reduced based on further qualifications, such as a teaching certification. Please state on your application if you are teacher certified.
Volunteer Facts
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, ethnicity, educational backgrounds and religion. Meet our current volunteers!
What do volunteers do?
DREAM volunteers have the opportunity to work in the areas of education and community development. They are given a variety of assignments based on their experience. DREAM volunteers lead youth groups, operate libraries and computer labs, run summer camps, teach English, organize community committees, teach preschool children, offer adult education classes and train local teachers.
What are the benefits?
For the volunteers, the program can help improve one’s Spanish skills, offer teaching and classroom experience, leadership opportunities, non-profit and educational administration experience, while creating unique friendships and life enriching cross-cultural encounters. In many ways it is similar to a study abroad experience. Our volunteers become immersed in Dominican schools and 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.
