Rio 2017 - Sports Development (2 weeks)

Truly a remarkable experience! This was my first volunteer experience and I have to say IVHQ made it easy for me throughout the planning stages to actually stepping foot in Rio. The team in Rio was really sweet and made you feel at home. Pick-up, accommodation, support, placement and most of all the other volunteers were beyond my expectation! In a way I felt like I got lucky with the group I was with but after conversations with the team and others who have volunteered before you will see this is an IVHQ thing, being surrounded by like minded folks who genuinely want to give back.

I did the sports development project which was in a beautiful setting, the community was nice and welcoming to us. If was pretty safe because the school and soccer field were close to each other and to top it off everyday there was at least 2 or 3 police officers posted in front. The commute is simple, you'll get a hang of things within days and there are several inexpensive places to eat at. The coach and the kids were the highlight of my trip, they are full of energy and will school in soccer so be prepared! I got to do a bit of both in my placement, first half you spend in the classroom and then you go play soccer. We did this twice, once with the morning class and then again with the afternoon class (9am - 3pm, Mon. - Thurs.).

Overall the place we stayed at was great and safe as long as you follow all the protocol I think Brazil is what you make it out to be. That is what the orientation is for so ask away if you have questions and stick with your group. Very cost effective place so no need to carry a ton of cash with you, just know your budget. Ton of options to buy food (they have uber eats!) or cook your own food. Plenty of time to go out, do activities and make the most of your time in Rio. I was there for 2 weeks and am satisfied with everything I did because I was always ready to do something did not matter what it was. Just be open minded and go with flow, I think that is the best way to approach any volunteer or study abroad experience and glad it turned out to be an amazing experience.

Highly recommend IVHQ and looking forward to doing my next one with them! I will miss you Rio!!