AFSC Mexico Summer Project Works in Indigenous Communities to Build a More Sustainable World
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Janis D. Shields, Director Media and Public Relations, (215) 241-7060; AFTER HOURS (302)545-6596; or Tonya Robie, (215) 241-7295
PHILADELPHIA, PA - The experience of a lifetime can be yours by joining The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) Mexico Summer Project. Mexico Summer Project offers a unique opportunity for youths to work in indigenous communities of Mexico -- each drawing from their diverse culture and experiences to address a variety of political, social, ecological, and economic challenges. The project is run in collaboration with Servicio, Desarrollo y Paz, A.C. (SEDEPAC), a prominent Mexican non-governmental organization.
This year, youth project teams will stay in the beautiful mountains of the Sierra Norte region of Puebla, Mexico, immersed in the tradition and culture of the Nahua and Totonaco indigenous groups. After orientation, including a three-day home stay with a local host family, participants are divided into small teams that live as a community, sharing chores and domestic responsibilities. These youth teams spend their mornings on assigned projects that help communities build or strengthen self-sufficiency. In the afternoon, participants will engage with local families in cooking, arts, music, language workshops and other cultural activities.
The program runs June 30 through August 18, 2007. Participants must be between 18 and 26 years of age and fluent in Spanish. They must demonstrate ability to take on new challenges and enjoy living and working in a group setting. In addition, participants must have interest in political, social, and cultural issues in Latin America and their own communities. Participants should be prepared to live in remote areas, under rural living conditions.
This is an intensive, challenging experience for mature youths concerned about justice, who want to learn more about creative solutions to build sustainable communities. The application deadline is March 26, 2007. Notice of acceptance is given by the end of April, 2007; however, additional applicants may be contacted later if space becomes available.
A project fee of $1,350 is required, which includes food, lodging, local transportation, and orientation and evaluation materials. Scholarships are available for people with demonstrated financial need. A $250 non-refundable deposit is due upon acceptance. The remainder is due by Mid June, 2007. Participants are responsible for travel to and from Mexico City and incidental expenses. A pre-project physical exam is required along with recommended immunizations.
The American Friends Service Committee is a Quaker organization that includes people of various faiths who are committed to social justice, peace and humanitarian service. Its work is based on the belief in the worth of every person and faith in the power of love to overcome violence and injustice. The Service Committee is a co-recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize for humanitarian service, accepted on behalf of Quakers worldwide.
For more information or for an application, visit the AFSC Mexico website at www.afsc.org/mexicosummer.htm. You may also contact the Recruitment Coordinator at: Mexico Summer Project, American Friends Service Committee, 1501 Cherry Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102, by phone at (215) 241-7295, or via email at mexicosummer@afsc.org.