Buenos Aires (pop. 13 million) is well-known for cultural diversity and a dynamic atmosphere, and is renowned as one of South America's most elegant and vibrant cities. The history of Buenos Aires revolves around the Western European immigrants, and their legacy is apparent in the architecture, art and style of the city. Buenos Aires has also adopted some more modern architectural styles, which provide a notable contrast to the city's deep-rooted traditions and history.
Remember that you may combine ELAP with an ISA study abroad program. To learn more about our academic programs in Buenos Aires please click here.
Current placements in Buenos Aires:
(Click on the titles to read more)
Individual Placements
Children’s Home
Support children who have been affected by HIV/AIDS through activities such as sports, games, arts and crafts projects and tutoring. Many of these children have parents diagnosed with HIV or AIDS and some of the children carry this diagnosis as well. Participants help with English homework, focus on learning techniques and spend one-on-one time with the children to increase self-esteem. Additional activities include helping the staff prepare snacks, assisting in clean-up and distributing clothing donations to the children.
Boy's Home
The Boy's Home was founded in part by the Argentine Ministry of Social Development to give guidance and shelter to orphaned boys. Home to over 60 orphans ranging from 7 to 14 years of age, this center provides social services such as counseling, medical monitoring, physical education, literacy training and visual arts workshops. Teach, mentor, and equip these young boys with skills essential to leading a successful life.
*This placement is open to male volunteers only.
Child Development Foundation
With an estimated sixty percent of Argentina's youth living below the poverty line, social services play a vital role in the lives of children inhabiting the most impoverished areas of Buenos Aires. Combat this alarming reality by facilitating recreational, educational and social activities for the children and adolescents. Assist the staff with weekly projects, serve as a mentor and help local children develop relational skills in a healthy and happy environment.
Home Away From Home
This "home away from home" organization brings patients and their families to Buenos Aires to receive specialized medical care. It also provides food, shelter and medical advice during their stay. Most of the patients come from the poorest areas of Argentina and stay for about 2 or 3 weeks while seeing medical specialists and receiving treatment that is not available in their region of the country. Participants work with the patients, their families and especially the children. Engage children in recreational and arts & crafts activities to aide them during this difficult time away from their parents and homes. Accompany patients to their medical visits, demonstrate how to use public transportation and help familiarize them with the city. Visit with the families that stay in the hospital during the week to provide a smiling and happy face to warm their spirits and ease their minds.
All individual placement participants complete an
ELAP Portfolio as part of their program.
Group Placements
Home Away From Home
Collaborate with local Argentines to renovate and create a better environment for individuals whose family members are seeking medical treatment in Buenos Aires. This organization provides temporary room and board to rural families coming to the capital city for better health care. Volunteers will paint and restore rooms and communal living areas to make a more comfortable living situation for displaced rural families in need of alternative housing. Volunteers will have the opportunity to interact with locals and develop recreational activities and classes throughout the day. Open-mindedness and a willingness to serve are essential requirements for all participants. All projects are subject to change.
To learn more about the ELAP Summer Group Projects, click here.
