International Voluntary Service
Volunteering for Peace and Social Justice

USA: Leander House, Massachusetts

SCI USA

Leander House

Theme of the project: Disabilities

Location: MASSACHUSETTS

Work starts: on-going

Work ends: on-going

Application deadline: on-going

Decision date: on-going

Total number of volunteers: 1

Project language: English

Local language: English

Short description: This is where Jennie Reins lives in a large Victorian house with her two small daughters, six mentally handicapped adults and 2 volunteer co-workers. Leander House has a relaxed atmosphere and the volunteer must be self-motivated and willing to take part in all aspects of life. One set free day per week, several evenings per week free, 8 weeks per year free when the residents are away for the holidays and vacations. Extended time travelling, should be done during vacation times (when the special needs people are away for the holidays) or before or after the end of your time with us, and at your own expense. Casual attire is more appropriate.

Long description: Leander House is located 2 blocks off the main street of Great Barrington in two large Victorian homes.

Number of M/LTV openings total: 2

Period: 6 months or longer.

Qualification: Willingness to help and/or care for adults with disabilities; willingness to be around children; ability to be left alone and in charge of the house; willingness to join in; international or US driver's license, at least 6 months driving experience and for insurance purposes we must have a copy of your driving record.

Skills that would be helpful for work (but not required): Yard work / gardening; carpentry; cooking and particular skills that could be taught to handicapped people.

Work: There are two kinds of work: 1) helping with the needs of others and 2) working around the house. Helping with the needs of others may entail helping to bathe someone, or prompting them to do so properly(or doing it for them); helping with other areas of personal hygiene; giving someone or a group of people a ride to a class or doctor's appointment or some other place; helping someone clean their room properly (or doing it for them if they are unable to do so themselves); helping someone to do other tasks properly; helping someone to write or read; going with someone to a play or concert, or... Working around the house could be repairing something, cleaning, cooking, building, garden work, organizational or administrative work. In general, anything that would maintain and improve the quality of living for the people who live in Leander House.

Accommodation: Private bedroom with shared bath. Room and board is provided.

Pocket money: $125 pocket money monthly. You are required to pay for international phone calls yourself.