Special Needs/Childcare

I was truly blessed to have had the opportunity to volunteer for 2 weeks in Lima with IVHQ. We partnered with a local organization called, "TarpuySonqo" and my particular project entailed organizing lesson plans and activities for teenage girls (aged 12-18) who were either victims of rape, abuse, prostitution and/or involved in petty crime. Some of these girls were pregnant or had young children, so we not only got a chance to interact with them but also their infants. It was such a pleasure volunteering at this site each day because despite their individual circumstances, you felt genuine warmth and love from each teenage girl, their babies, as well as the entire staff (i.e. psychologists, cooks, gatekeepers etc).
If you enjoy mingling and meeting new people then the homestay is a great fit for you. I got to meet fellow volunteers from all over the world and not only did friendships develop but we got to plan and go on weekend excursions together.
My only suggestions are 1) If you want to improve your Spanish be proactive, step outside of your comfort zone and speak Spanish to anyone you come across (hosts, cooks, cleaners, local coordinators etc) because it's easy to resort to English with your fellow volunteers 2) When booking your plane ticket give yourself a few extra days in the country (post-volunteering) to account for bigger excursions (i.e. Machu Picchu etc) 3) If you're able to, consider volunteering for 2 weeks or more in order to build a solid foundation and have a greater impact at your placement site.