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International Citizen Service opens for applications
Do you want to volunteer overseas and help to make a real difference in the poorest parts of the world? If so, the International Citizen Service (ICS) has now opened for applications.
Overseas volunteering opportunities
International Citizen Service aims to help reduce poverty overseas, while giving young people the chance to develop skills such as team working and communications.
The scheme is open to young people aged 18 to 22, with placements lasting from 10 to 12 weeks.
Some of the experiences on offer will include:
- working in Latin America or West Africa on projects to protect and promote the rights of children, women and people living with disabilities or HIV/AIDS
- faith based programmes in Malawi, El Salvador or Peru working with farmers on sustainable agriculture or training young people in IT skills
- working alongside young national volunteers in Africa or Asia to design and run events and campaigns to promote changes aimed at reducing poverty
International Citizen Service will be largely funded by the government, but some volunteers may have to pay some of the costs. The scheme will be means tested to make sure that people from all backgrounds can take part.
Prime Minister David Cameron said: "International Citizen Service will not only help the world's poorest communities, but it will be a life changing experience for our young people: giving them new perspectives, greater confidence and higher aspirations."
Development Secretary Andrew Mitchell said: "This is an important opportunity for young people not only to broaden their own horizons but also to have a life-changing impact on others.
"These volunteers will learn first hand about the challenges faced by very poor communities in developing countries, and how their lives can be improved. By making this contribution these volunteers will show what a difference one person can make in the world."
For further information on International Citizen Service, and to apply, follow the link below.
National Citizen Service
International Citizen Service follows the launch of National Citizen Service.
National Citizen Service is a aimed at 16-year-olds, giving them the chance to learn new skills and get involved in their community in summer 2011.
The scheme will take place in a number of different locations across England.
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