UPAVIM seeks highly motivated and caring volunteers to work in the tutoring center and teach children grades K-6.

Reforzamiento is UPAVIM’S tutoring center.  It is a safe and interactive space for children in La Esperanza to find help with homework and enrichment through play.

Reforzamiento is so important for the community because its primary attendees, public school students, are only in class for half of the day. The center is a sanctuary for these children who might otherwise be out on the gang controlled streets. Here they have access to craft supplies, puzzles, books, and games that they don’t have at home. They also find the support and guidance of Reyna and the volunteers.

The Role of the Volunteer

UPAVIM volunteers find their experience to be demanding but rewarding. Working and living in a developing country demands a lot of energy and flexibility. Many volunteers have found room for their own creativity and interest.  Reforzamiento is always improving through the special talents and ideas of volunteers.

 Responsibilities of Reforzamiento volunteers include:

• Assistant teaching of Prepa (preschool) class
• Giving English lessons to community members
• Tutoring students one-on-one
• Instructing lessons to small groups

Qualifications:

• Have experience working with children
• Be conversational in Spanish
• Be a self-starter and self-regulator

Length of Commitment:

A minimum commitment of four months is required but one year is preferred. The responsibilities of volunteering in the tutoring center consume 8 hours per weekday.