Where does the money go?

 Approximately 70% of each dollar raised by the organization goes directly to cover the cost of the program. Program expenses include training materials and workshops, international travel, supervision of the Volunteers, a 24-hour emergency support system during the internship, planning and management of projects, and supplies for Volunteers' community service activities. Host communities in Ghana contribute the food and lodging for the Volunteers. The other 30% covers overhead costs of the organization such as insurance, telephone, and other administrative expenses.

How old do I need to be to Volunteer?
The minimum age for participation in an ARA project is 18 years of age, provided that the individual has completed his or her sophomore year of high school.

What are the benefits for the volunteer?
The benefits of volunteering through a well-established placement organization include: 

• • • Orientation: Pre-departure and on-site in both cross-cultural skills and technical training.
    • Arranged Accommodations: A supportive and caring home-stay environment provides an important connection to the culture and a first-hand view of social and political events in the country.
    • A Safety Net: 24 hour staff to provide logistical and emotional support.
    • Clear Expectations: Volunteers work in projects that are defined by host communities and partner agencies.
    • Affordability: It is more cost effective to go through a well established program than to try going on your own.

Preparing for Your Journey

Will I live with a family?

It is ARA intent to house every Volunteer with a family. Project Staff members visit communities in advance of the Volunteers' arrival to determine the best eating and living arrangements. Volunteers are encouraged to report any problems with these arrangements immediately to the Project Staff.

How are Volunteer partnerships made?

Volunteers are typically assigned one or two ARA partners for their community placement during in-country briefing. ARA has established standards for the placement of Volunteers in order to ensure that everyone is placed in situations which are culturally appropriate and safe. Project Staff considers Volunteers' preferences, language abilities, and personality when assigning partnerships.

When will I know my project assignment?

 Assignments will be made after the Correspondent Volunteer Administrators have received your full application, the Volunteer Assignment Preference Form (VAPF), the Euro 250 deposit, and has conducted a successful phone interview with you. Assignments will be made on a rolling, first-come-first-serve basis. Should project assignments change, they would be made in response to a change in political events in a specific country and would be for your safety.

Are all assignments rural?

ARA works with host organizations to assess local health needs and the capabilities of the Volunteers. According to this assessment, ARA Volunteers are placed primarily in rural areas, but some Volunteers may be placed in urban and semi-urban communities.

Why does ARA need signatures from both parents?

For Volunteers younger than 18, ARA requires the signatures of both parents. If a parent has sole custody, however, he or she can sign and attach a copy of the proof of guardianship in lieu of the second signature.

What do I pack?

What you pack will depend on where you are assigned. Packing suggestions can be found in the Volunteer Handbook and in the Volunteer Country Materials. You should pack extremely lightly - carry on a small bag and check two medium duffle bags or check a hiking backpack and your cot. It is very important that you also adhere to the airlines' baggage weight specifications.

My friend and I are studying together. Could we be assigned together?

No. One of the many facets of the program is having the opportunity to work with people from diverse backgrounds, including your partners. This serves as another dimension of the learning experience in ARA.

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