deaf education in jamaica


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Volunteer in Jamaica, the largest English-speaking island in the Caribbean, and experience the culture of this tropical island firsthand in a meaningful way. In partnership with the Jamaica Association for the Deaf, World Endeavors is seeking experienced deaf educators who are fluent in sign language as well as volunteers without signing abilities. Volunteers will work with deaf educators to improve literacy and promote personal development, as well as to improve educational facilities and opportunities for the deaf community in Jamaica. If you have demonstrated experience in this area or have an interest in aiding the deaf community in Kingston, Jamaica, we welcome your participation.

The goal of this project is to develop self-sustaining cycles of Deaf education and leadership skills in developing countries through advocacy, multi-cultural exchange, and mentor support. These cycles will assist Deaf people around the world to increase their social and economic self-sufficiency.

Volunteers are needed year round to support the efforts of the Jamaica Association for the Deaf.  There is a particular need for volunteers during the month long Summer Program in July.  The Summer Program is an intensive literacy program with the goal of teaching Jamaican Sign Language and English reading and writing skills to Deaf educators in Jamaica. Due to the lack of a developed Deaf education system in Jamaica (most teachers are under-trained in Deaf education and sign language), most Deaf students leave secondary school with less than a 5th grade reading level. The Summer Program aims to help more deaf adults get into college and to put more Deaf teachers in Deaf schools all over Jamaica.

Eligibility: Individuals with fluent sign-language skills are needed to help tutor Fast Track students. Participants with little to no signing abilities are also needed to help facilitate the program.

Back_topOrientation:

Upon arrival in Jamaica, volunteers are met at the airport and taken to their accommodations. They will receive an orientation that will familiarize them with the town and the surrounding area, the Jamaican culture, and their program.

Once the placement begins, participants will receive an additional mini-orientation at the project site that focuses on project opportunities and responsibilities.

Back_topHousing:

Dormitory-style housing with other volunteers. 

Food: Groceries will be provided, and participants will have access to a kitchen.

Back_topCost and Dates :

Duration 2 weeks 3 weeks 4 weeks 5 weeks 6 weeks 7 weeks 8 weeks 12 weeks
Costs $1,317.00 $1,435.00 $1,554.00 $1,671.00 $1,789.00 $1,907.00 $2,027.00 $2,555.00
The Summer Program will begin on July 6th and go through July 31st. The first week will be used to make preparations for the students' arrival.

We encourage volunteers to apply as far in advance as possible. Generally it is best to submit your application at least 12 weeks prior to your intended start date, but exceptions can be made if the volunteer is willing to work with World Endeavors to expedite the enrollment process. To submit an application, download the application found on the sidebar of this page.

Back_topCost Includes:

  • Student housing accommodations
  • Groceries provided
  • On-site orientation
  • Travel medical insurance
  • Pre-departure handbook and pre-trip guidance
  • Representative in-country for your assistance
  • Volunteer placement
  • 24/7 emergency phone support

Not Included:

  • Round-trip transportation to Jamaica
  • Visa expenses
  • Optional trips and excursions
  • Personal expenses
  • Daily transportation

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