Girls / Boys Club Rural Honduras

Shoulder to Shoulder has been present in the Intibucá Honduras for more than 20 years working with communities to reduce poverty through programs in health, education, nutrition and other determinants of health. This long-term relationship has opened possibilities for continuity of care, health promotion and disease prevention. Ongoing, dedicated, concentrated and unwavering commitment to one area has made tremendous and sustained improvements in overall health and well being of our service area. Our staffing strategy is a combination of local staff and visiting Brigades which bring special skills. This position is to support over 15 medical, construction and service brigades that serve our project throughout the year. A minimum commitment of 12 months is required but there is a large block of time off during late November into January. THIS POSITION IS IN HONDURAS . There are two fully equipped medical and dental clinics with dorms and apartment type living facilities on site with internet and phone service. Housing and meals are provided. Visit www.shouldertoshoulder.org

It is a well researched fact that delaying pregnancy until age 18 or later provides a better physical, emotional, and educational situation for both mother and child. This is particularly challenging in the Frontera of Intibuca where Shoulder to Shoulder operates. We track this measure in our electronic database for the 5 Municipalities in which we operate. We have programs aimed improving this outcome. Key is a long standing program called Yo Puedo which provides positive role models, training in work skills, and encouragement to grade school age girls. We have operated this program for almost 10 years now are in 15 schools with more expansion planned. Last year, one of our volunteers piloted a girls club to address young teens at risk and provide meaningful activities, educational support and health local role models, as well as just a place to go. This was a success for the time she spent with us. This year, we would like to expand this program beyond the pilot stage and get it transitioned to be staffed and sustained with young Honduran role models.

We are seeking volunteers who want to work with young teens and reapply proven methodologies and materials publically available to create teen support organizations in Santa Lucia, Concepcion and surrounding villages in Intibuca. You will work with Teachers, local political officials, health care professionals and concerned citizens groups. You will start clubs and recruit local Honduran who will do this as public service or for a small stipend. You will develop a plan for sustainability and leave Honduras after a year, knowing that you made a substantial contribution to the lives of young people.

Skill Set: • Self starter; able to define what needs to be done; takes initiative to resolve problems • Conversational communication skills in both English and Spanish • Works well with and can motivate people; able to establish rapport; understand and relate to local values and culture. • Able to teach/persuade people to adopt new tasks and new ways of doing existing ones • Ability to drive 4 wheel truck desirable, not required • Flexible in living conditions

Additional Information This position is a volunteer position with small stipend. While certainly not limited to this, previous volunteers have been recent graduates using this year to gain management, cultural, and language skills prior to graduate school or the workplace. Living arrangements and routine medical/dental care are provided in our facilities..