In the department of La Libertad there are around 4,500 people suffering from acute visual deficiencies. Tulio Herrera Leon is the only special education center in this area tailored to their needs. The mission of the School is to offer education and vocational training to those in need in order to ensure their participation in the socio-economic development of Peru. Nowadays, it also opens its door to children with other types of disabilities, such as down syndrome, autism, MR, etc.
The school is run by Madre Nelida, who ensures the excellent state of the facilities and does an amazing job of looking after the books and equipment. There is a wonderful familial atmosphere at the school and it doesn't take long to become attached to both the staff and students. The school offers primary school education and assistance with secondary and university school work for students that have moved on to higher levels. It also offers multiple workshops including music, handicrafts, typing and IT as well as teaching how to carry out domestic tasks to help the students become more independent and self-reliant. Some older students have the opportunity to participate in a unique program offering training in massage therapy, reflexology and beauty treatments, they’re always looking for people to practice on! Once they have completed the training and received certification they have the opportunity to work in a therapeutic center in the city.
Attending the school is free for families with low incomes (families with higher incomes pay a minimal annual fee), and the state pays the salaries of the staff however does not help with the transportation of the students to the school, nor with the purchasing of textbooks, adapted materials or renovation of old equipment. It is because of this that the Center asks for donations and external financial help in order to progress and move forward.
Currently, despite having a well equipped music room, the school does not have enough funding to pay for a music teacher so we are looking for volunteers with a musical background to give classes to the children and adults who attend the school. Volunteers will need to work off their own initiative in providing a fun and stimulating environment to learn music in. If you are an experienced musician looking for a challenging and rewarding volunteer position then Tulio Herrera Leon is the place for you!
Volunteer Requirements/Working Hours:
-
Spanish level: Intermediate
-
Time Commitment: Min 1 month
-
Minimum Age: 20 years
-
Previous experience of working with disabled children would be advantageous although is it not expected or essential
-
Motivation and assertiveness are essential for this role
The working hours for this role are negotiable but are usually between 8:00am and 1:15pm.
