Volunteer with Children in Latvia

Global Vision International

Join an extremely forward-thinking orphanage that not only takes care of children while they are young but also emphasizes the importance of preparing them for adulthood. The Children’s Village was founded in 1993 by Christophe Alexandre, who originally housed the children in a large, renovated manor house. The project was later divided into three smaller houses providing a more personal, family orientated atmosphere. In a moment of creative inspiration the Manor House was then converted into a hotel, the proceeds of which go to the Village, and the Hotel itself gives the older children the opportunity to train in hostelry and tourism. There are also plans to convert a barn and surrounding land into a farm that will rear Latvian breeds, grow organic produce and which in turn will attract tourists and school groups whilst also providing therapy and training for the children. Part of your fee will be a donation towards the Society and its efforts to become sustainable.

No formal teacher-training is required apart from a good level of spoken and written English to provide conversational lessons to adults and children alike. Volunteers should be enthusiastic and happy to work with children and young adults, some whom may be mentally disabled. Anyone with occupational therapy, tourism, farming, sustainable development and construction skills/background would be extremely welcome. A driving licence is also an added bonus. Prefer mature volunteers, early 20’s plus, who are fit and strong.

Also included in the fee will be Latvian lessons in the village and excursions to Riga or the surrounding countryside. Children will be taken on outings and weekend trips, and you will be able to go ice skating and cross country skiing in winter, canoeing and hiking in summer, berry and mushroom picking in autumn and receive a dose of culture throughout the year.