Handicrafts Project (Rio de Janeiro)

Project Summary

If you have a handicraft skill you want to teach disadvantaged women, this is a wonderful project for you. The women in the favelas (shanty town) will desperately appreciate any new skills you can teach them as they can earn extra income and also become independent. In the favelas without money and skills, life can be very though, especially if you depend only on your partner's income. This project works with women to give them skills and helps them promote their entrepreneurial ability. Many participants in the past have successfully raised their living standard by making use of their skills they have learnt in the project. Many have also taught in the project to earn their livelihood after participating in the project.

Volunteer Responsibilities

Volunteers with handicrafts skills are welcomed to enroll in the project and help the disadvantaged women in the favelas of Rio. Volunteers can teach sewing, sandal design, painting, perfumes, pottery, candle making or any other skills. You can organize your class and develop lesson plans. The full details of your activities will be finalized before you start the program.

Skills/Qualifications

Volunteers must know handicrafts skills to teach the women. If you know any entrepreneurial skills you can also teach the women. Basic Portuguese is not required but recommended. Volunteers must also be flexible, open minded and resourceful.

Project Location:

This project is located in one of the largest favelas in Rio de Janeiro. These favelas were known for high crime rate but due to the police action and the police presence, the crime scene is virtually non-existence now. Poverty, however, remains entrenched in the favelas as usually it's the low-income families that settle in the favelas.

When not at the project volunteers will have plenty to do in their free time. Volunteers can soak up some sun at one of Rio's famous beaches, or go hiking in one of the largest in urban parks in the world. You can go see the wonderful views from Corcovado or Sugar Loaf. There is also excellent nightlife to experience as well as museums and theatres throughout the city. All of these activities are available through Rio's extensive public transportation system.

For safety reasons, always be aware of where you are going and the best time to go. Ask the local coordinator or trustworthy locals if ever in doubt or need more information.