A few weeks back, I wrote about my fellow international volunteers at the AFOS Fundacion. This week I would like to talk about the Argentine volunteer staff that make our experience possible.
First, a note about AFOS. While searching Idealist.org for volunteer opportunities in Argentina, it was AFOS’ mission statement that first caught my attention: “supporting the capacities of existing nonprofit organizations in the local community by providing volunteers and other human resource support.” I liked the idea of working with local groups to find out how they view problems and solutions. (For more on ethics and strategies for evaluating international volunteer organizations, visit Idealist’s International Volunteerism Resource Center.)
I’ve enjoyed getting to know the AFOS cast of characters. My first point of contact was the Foundation’s director, Julio Herz. Julio replied to every question and concern I had prior to arrival and was the first face I met at the airport in Cordoba. Upon meeting my project coordinator, Marta, I could tell she had a direct and passionate approach to her work. She began her career as a chemical engineer, then pursued a Master’s degree in social work after discovering a desire to work with the what she calls vulnerable communities. Marta has worked with NGOs for several years now, and her daughter also works as a project coordinator at AFOS while pursuing her education as a veterinarian. Meanwhile, logistics coordinator, chef-extraordinaire, and all-around problem solver Diego keeps the AFOS residence running while proving a fun housemate to the volunteers.
From the local staff, I learned what they see as the challenges and joys facing nonprofit organizations in Argentina:
(1) Organizing the disorganized. Foundation director Julio has a background in business management and is a professional accountant by day. “It’s not easy here,” he says. He explained that the nonprofit organizations they support have very little formal structure, which can make coordinating projects difficult.
(2) Managing expectations. With a large number of volunteers coming from more structured cultures, the local staff senses the frustration when volunteers struggle with a more fluid environment. Add language limitations—such as when volunteers (like me!) arrive with minimal language skills and very few local staff speak English—and even understanding what is expected can be quite difficult on both sides.
(3) The joy of meeting new people and watching them grow. I was most impressed with the warmth and openness I found while volunteering in Cordoba. I sensed a real value in cross-cultural understanding even when pressed to accomplish a specific task. AFOS took great joy in watching volunteers adapt and grow which was evident in the farewell parties organized with each departure.
I am curious what other volunteers in Latin America have found in working with local NGOs. What are the best practices, and what are your favorite memories? And what challenges or less positive experiences have you had?
Latest posts by miascavone
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- Arriving Just In Time - January 22nd, 2010
