WORK: Opening the European Family to Azerbaijani Orphans" is a 9-month service program for a group of 3 EVS volunteers from EU countries. Over the course of 9 months, volunteers will work with SOS Children’s Village, Ganja City State Orphanage and Ganja Children’s Union serving needy and orphan children in Ganja, Azerbaijan.  Since most of the target population attends school between mid-September and mid-May, the work schedule will primarily allow volunteers time for activity preparation in the mornings and activities in the afternoon and early evenings.  In addition, pre-school aged children will be available for activities throughout the day should volunteers desire to work with this age group. Volunteers will have extensive opportunities to raise awareness of the EVS program both in Ganja and throughout Azerbaijan’s regions during their period of service. By using both formal and non-formal education methods in teaching art, culture, sport and outdoor activities, this program hopes to further develop solidarity and promote citizenship and mutual understanding among young people, especially among this vulnerable and excluded group.

PROFILE OF THE VOLUNTEERS: It is necessary that volunteers are proficient in the English language in order to communicate with local staff and help the children to improve their language skills.  Volunteers must have a strong desire to work with children.  Characteristics of a successful volunteer are energy, motivation, creativity, and patience.  While teaching experience is not essential, volunteers should be comfortable working with groups of children in an intercultural setting on a daily basis.  Children enjoy physical activities such as sports and games, so volunteers should be comfortable organizing and participating in activities of this nature.