Jamaica is popular for its beautiful white beaches, tropical beauty, and warm, friendly atmosphere, but the majority of the island is not visited by tourists. Volunteering in Petersfield takes the tourist experience deeper and provides the opportunity for visitors to participate first-hand in the life of a small, rural community.

Highlights

Group of Volunteers and Children in Jamaica

Community Driven Service

The service focus is developed by community members and organizations according to their current needs. Often, community partners feel that learning about local culture, history, sites, and issues is as important as volunteering. Types of service may take many forms. You may be able to:

  • Tutor youth in a variety subjects
  • Construct additional classrooms to help alleviate overcrowded schools
  • Create green spaces within the community for gathering and recreation
  • Mentor and educate youth, equipping them with necessary life skills

Cultural and Recreational Activities

  • Stay with a local host family and gain real insight into the community and Jamaican culture
  • Participate in meetings with local community members and learn about their model of community development
  • Learn about sugar-farming from local farmers and tour a sugar cane factory
  • Dive in the clear waters of Roaring River and swim through spectacular caves
  • Relax at a local beach and waterfall, popular with community members and volunteers

Unique Aspects

Our partner organization has been repeatedly recognized for its successes as a model rural Jamaican community organization. You will to serve and learn with a group of individuals recognized across the island for their leadership in carefully considering how to develop the economic, social, and ethical questions of development.

Accommodations

A local host family

Best Time to Go

Year-round

Duration

1 week minimum, 6 or more; individuals, 2 week minimum.

Sustainable Elements

  • Community-driven service project and Community-based learning.
  • Local site coordinator and guide.
  • Coordinated through a nonprofit organization in which 80% of program fees go toward programming and the community.
  • Dedicated to working with local individuals and organizations.
  • Life-changing intercultural experience.

Cost

For personal pricing to meet your budget needs, please e-mail Wiser World Travel, or call 303-443-0604, USA toll free 1-877-743-0604.

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