INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS IN DEAF EDUCATION
Volunteers on World Endeavors Deaf Education projects empower deaf communities by increasing education, literacy, job skills, and economic self-sufficiency. Volunteers partner with existing support agencies for the deaf, working to improve local educational infrastructure and help both adults and children improve their signing and literacy skills. Volunteers with signing abilities may assist in classrooms, provide after-school tutoring to deaf students, or teach computer and other skills classes. Volunteers without signing ability can provide general support for the deaf community and contribute to advocacy and outreach projects.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: DEAF EDUCATION
Deaf Education projects provide participants, particularly those with an interest in signing or deaf culture, an opportunity to contribute their skills and passion to helping deaf communities worldwide. Volunteers immerse themselves in local deaf communities, exchanging ideas and learning about their host cultures while making a difference to local deaf adults and children. Volunteers have the opportunity to learn some of their host country’s sign language. These projects build bridges between individuals and cultures.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
Volunteer projects in Deaf Education are open to both deaf and hearing participants and to those with and without signing ability. Volunteers who have experience with American Sign Language or other signing systems find that these projects are a fantastic way to make use of their skills and contribute to a community. Participants who don’t have a background in signing or deaf culture can also put their skills and enthusiasm to use by assisting in classrooms and participating in outreach projects.
DESTINATIONS
EXPERIENCES
Robynn is currently volunteering in Bangkok, Thailand at a school for children with hearing impairments. A cochlear implant recipient herself, Robynn is passionate about helping others, particularly those in the deaf community.
