Volunteer in Sao Paulo, Brazil

Home to 12 million people, São Paulo is the most populous city in Brazil, as well as in the Western and Southern Hemispheres. Though São Paulo is Brazil’s wealthiest city, there remains a considerably visible divide between the city’s rich and poor populations. Due to São Paulo’s size, wealth inequality, and rapidly growing economy which perpetuates a variety of infrastructure problems, there is a great need for international volunteers.

São Paulo is a captivating, vibrant city to visit, offering many unique experiences for visitors. It’s full of energetic music, great food, beautiful beaches, and warm people. However, despite the attractions, daily struggles of many of the city’s 12 million people remain unseen behind the city’s wealthy exterior. Poor planning, floods, rising crime and drug problems have been growing troubles in the metropolis. Volunteers are needed on an ongoing basis for many project types, such as healthcare, youth support and education.

Education

Public schools are free for all permanent residents in São Paulo, however, many children from low-income families do not attend, due to child labor. Still, there remains a dire need for teachers to provide quality education for the hundreds of thousands of children in the city, as well as an increasing number of adults who want to learn English. São Paulo, like the rest of Brazil, suffers from a lack of teachers and educational materials. As a volunteer teacher, you will have the opportunity to motivate children to stay in school and achieve an education, as well as help widen their views of the world.

Healthcare

Poor living conditions, lack of education, and other factors have contributed to health problems for a significant percentage of São Paulo’s population. Volunteers are needed to assist at mental health centers, to help with community health campaigns, and to educate patients. Volunteers will work very closely with patients, learning about the patients’ needs and providing necessary treatments.

Community Development

Behind the rows of high rise buildings and luxury condos sits the dark reminder that two million of São Paulo’s residents live in favelas -- low-income ‘towns’ built on the edge of urban areas. It’s estimated that 70% of the housing in the city is substandard. Volunteers are needed to perform hands-on physical work with local and international organizations to help build - from the ground up - educational facilities, health centers, and youth centers, providing easier access to education, healthcare, and helping get youth off the street.

Requirements to Volunteer in Brazil

US Citizens are required to get a visa in order to enter Brazil. Visas must be obtained in advance from a Brazilian Embassy or Consulate in your city. Visas upon arrival are not issued in Brazil, and entrance will be refused to anyone not possessing a valid visa.

Tourist visas have limitations and do not allow people to volunteer. Depending on the type of volunteer work you want to do, you will most likely need to obtain a temporary work visa.