Overseas Volunteers!!

We are glad that you are interested in serving with UrbanPromise Honduras! Here you will find more information about life in Copan Ruinas and the volunteer experience with UPH.

Volunteers will primarily serve as an assistant to the After-school program director. You will work alongside the director in the development of curriculum, planning activities, buying supplies and then running the operations at the after-school program. Your mornings will be spent in preparation for the day, connecting with staff, and planning. Your afternoons will be spent on-site in directing and supervising the operations at camp. Volunteers generally put in 3-4 hours before lunch and 4-5 hours after lunch.

Along with your work in the after-school program you will have many opportunities to continue building relationships with children, youth and their families. Examples might include having dinner with families, youth discussion groups, or special field trips with the children.

Volunteers are also able to use the morning time for Spanish classes in the case that more Spanish instruction is needed. If your Spanish competency is minimal then is advisable to take Spanish classes during your stay. UPH can help arrange Spanish classes through Guacamaya Spanish Language School.

Volunteer FAQ’s

1. What is the mission and vision of UrbanPromise Honduras (UPH)?

UrbanPromise Honduras seeks to inspire the children and youth of Honduras to fulfill their dreams by equipping them with the skills necessary for life management, academic achievement, spiritual growth and leadership rooted in the Christian faith.

In 20 years we hope to see children and youth in the community who are supported holistically in all areas of life. We hope to see all children and youth dreaming and given opportunities to see those dreams become a reality. We hope to see passionate leaders transforming their community and those around them in a positive direction.

2. Is my time flexible? Will I be able to spend time away from work, traveling, visiting friends, etc.?

- No, your time does not allow for much flexibility. We essentially view our volunteers as unpaid staff. Therefore we ask that our volunteers work the same full-time hours as staff and receive the same vacation days as staff. Obviously we do not want our volunteers to burnout just as we do not want staff to burnout, so with proper communication we can make necessary adjustments. We could also potentially coordinate some opportunities on the side to help with finances, such as tutoring or substituting at the local bilingual school, Mayatan Bilingual School.

3. What fees do I pay as a volunteer? What will I receive?

- $50 USD per month. This fee will cover weekly “coffee & convo” volunteer meetings, orientation and materials, free internet and celebration dinners with UPH staff.

At UPH, volunteers become part of the team. There is no “us” and “them” in reference to staff and volunteers. We all serve alongside each other, working, planning and moving in the direction of our common vision.

Volunteering with UrbanPromise Honduras for an extended period of time can be a great opportunity for gap year students or anyone seeking personal development in a cross-cultural setting. The personal development of our volunteer team is important and a goal of the Volunteer Coordinator.

4. How much does it cost to live in Copan Ruinas?

Living styles vary so I can discuss the specifics of costs with you further. For a rough estimate, depending on how lavish or frugal the lifestyle, you will spend between $100-300 on food/month and $150-250 on accommodation/month.

5. Can UPH assist me in finding accommodation?

- Yes, UPH will assist in finding your accommodation. Before your arrival we will connect with you and secure accommodation based on your preferences and budget. Volunteers will have the option of individual apartments, hotel or home stays.

6. What level of Spanish does the volunteer need to have before arriving?

- We accept volunteers of all Spanish levels. That being said, our programs are all directed in Spanish. Therefore if your Spanish is beginner or low-level then your attitude must be one of learning, failing and overcoming challenges. The first month with such language barriers will be very difficult but we have hosted long-term volunteers who began with no Spanish experience but were conversational after 4-8 weeks. If your Spanish competency is minimal then is advisable to take Spanish classes during your stay. UPH can help arrange Spanish classes through Guacamaya Spanish Language School.

7. What is the minimum time commitment for volunteers?

- Volunteers must make a commitment of at least 4 weeks. The longer your stay, the more you will feel part of the UPH team and will be able to nurture and build deep relationships with the children and families in the community.

8. Do I need a specific skill set to work with UPH?

- You must love children and youth and have a servant’s heart.

9. Are there age limitations?

- No

10. How can I contact you?

- Blair Quinius

blair.uphonduras@yahoo.com

(Honduras country code 504) 9895-7346

www.urbanpromisehonduras.org

11. What is the application process?

- Contact me via email and forward me your resume. After connecting with you and receiving your resume and answering initial questions then I will forward you the Volunteer application.

Upon successful review of your application plus successful reference and background checks you would receive acceptance to become part of the UPH team as unpaid staff!

I will be in contact with you throughout this application process in hopes of making it as smooth and simple as possible. I will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Thank you and we look forward to having you serve alongside us and the UPH team!!

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