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Romania - FAQ
Tell me more about Romania
What kind of volunteer work is available?
What age do you have to be to volunteer?
What immunizations/vaccines will I need?
Do I need to speak Romanian to become a volunteer?
When do I need to arrive in Romania?
What are the living arrangements when volunteering?
Are we able to do any sightseeing while volunteering?
Are there more expenses once I arrive?
How safe is it to volunteer in Romania?
How many volunteers are there on site at the same time?
Can you tell me more about your partner in Romania?
Who organizes my visa for my volunteer placement?
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Tell me more about Romania?
Romania is one of the more progressive Eastern European countries. It is diverse with its mountains, mineral springs, Black Sea resorts, castles, history, quaint towns, and museums. It is bordered by Ukraine - Moldova - Black Sea - Bulgaria - Serbia - Hungary - This is the home of the famous Dracula. Romania also has a dark side with regard to its treatment of Children. For more information I suggest you purchase the Lonely Planet's guide to Romania.
What kind of volunteer work is available?
Depending on your experience, you may be asked to teach, counsel, do feeding, cooking and even cleaning. Our partner places a huge focus on the children having FUN, being happy, enjoying the rest of their lives, in contrast to the devastating conditions they have experienced in the state run institutions.
What age do you have to be to volunteer?
You must be 23 years old or over. There is no upper limit. You just have to be in good health.
What immunizations/vaccines will I need?
You will need Hepatitis B vaccinations. We advise that you consult your doctor about this.
Do I need to speak Romanian to become a volunteer?
No, however if you learn a little Romanian before you go it would greatly enhance your volunteer experience.
When do I need to arrive in Romania?
You can start the program at anytime during the year and you can volunteer anywhere from a minimum of 10 weeks to a maximum of 6 months. Our partner will pick you up from the airport and will deliver back for your return flight. If you are planning some tourist time in Romania before beginning then arrangements can be made for you to be picked up at a required destination.
What are the living arrangements when volunteering?
Volunteers stay in their own house and are required to share a room with other volunteers. Volunteers may also stay in the group home, which sometimes is necessary, and are provided with a bedroom separate from the residents.
Are we able to do any sightseeing while volunteering?
Yes. Volunteers are encouraged to take at least 4 days off a month and to travel around Romania a bit. Normally volunteers also have 2 days off each week.
Are there more expenses once I arrive?
The program fee covers accommodation and all meals during your placement. If you arrive early or intend on staying on in Romania for longer than you are volunteering then you will need to have spare money for this time. Also some money may be required for your days off depending on what you intend doing. Other costs include departure tax and any shopping you will do personally.
How safe is it to volunteer in Romania?
Romania is safer than most Eastern European countries. The thing to remember is that all western travelers are considered wealthy in Romania so it is important to keep valuables out of site.
How many volunteers are there in the group homes at the same time?
We are currently limited to four volunteers in Romania at anyone time.
Can you tell me more about your partner in Romania?
Our partner is registered as a legal foundation in Romania and has accreditation from the Child Protection Committee. They have been operating since 1991 and run four group homes with a total of 33 children/young adults aged between 8 months and 26. The Children have suffered much in their young lives and with your help our partner can give them hope of a better future.
Who organizes my visa for my volunteer placement?
If you need one you will organize your Visa through your travel agent before you leave for Romania. Also Once you have paid your application fee, We will send you the link to our 20 page program guide which includes links to Romanian Embassies through out the world.
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Question not covered here? Please check the generic FAQ, and if still unanswered, please submit your question here. (We aim to answer all email within 48 hours).
Click here to apply for the Romania program.
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