Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

1. When will I know my country and project assignment?

Assignments will be made in March provided that the complete application has been submitted in full and on time. Project assignment changes, although rare, would be made in response to a change in political events in a specific country or a change in an airline schedule. Projects occur between mid-June and mid-August.

2. Will I live with a family?

It is AMIGOS intent to house every volunteer with a family. Sometimes, however, this is not possible due to the lack of appropriate housing options in some communities. The International Office must approve alternative housing, and volunteers would likely live in a local clinic, church, community center or school. Project staff visit communities in advance of the volunteers’ arrival to determine eating and living arrangements. Volunteers are encouraged to report any problems promptly to the project staff.

3. How are volunteer partnerships made?

Volunteers are typically assigned one or two AMIGOS partners for their community placement. AMIGOS has established standards for the placement of volunteers in order to insure that everyone is placed in situations which are culturally appropriate and safe (i.e., male and female partners must have separate sleeping quarters). Project staff also consider volunteers’ preferences and language abilities when assigning partnerships.

4. Why do you need both parents' signature? My parents are divorced and I don't know where my father/mother  lives.

Volunteers who are under 18 years of age, must have permission from both parents to travel outside of the United States.  If one parent has sole custody.  The volunteer should attach the legal documents that prove custody.