Valparaiso, ChileThe Valparaiso Family YMCA of Valparaiso, IN has a partnership with the Asociacion Cristiana de Jovenes de Valparaiso (YMCA of Valparaiso, Chile). This partnership was formed over a decade ago with the intention of bridging cultural divides. Currently our partnership includes an internship program of Valparaiso University students, collaborations of professional staff, and financial assistance to the Chilean YMCA.The summer internship lasts 8-12 weeks. During this time, the students work within the various programs the Chilean YMCA offers. The assistance offered by the Valparaiso Family YMCA of Valparaiso, IN includes travel preparation, lodging and food at the YMCA of Valparaiso, Chile, financial support for airfare and entrance into the country, as well as guidance before and throughout one's trip. • For more information including details about eligibility, please contact Katie Burgus by email or at 219.462.4185 ext. 230. |
A testimonial from VU student Jessie Marie White. Jessie participated in the Valparaiso, Chile program during summer 2009.
• Read more testimonials about the Chile program.
On our off days, we spent time exploring Valparaiso. We lived a few blocks from the ocean and in the heart of this small city. Our program director at the YMCA, Juanma and Oscar, ensured that we see and understand everything about Valparaiso. We had the opportunity to visit two of the famous poet, Pablo Neruda’s, homes and even climbed Machu Picchu in our last week there. I recommend that you take advantage of this experience. I met amazing friends that I’m very close with, improved my Spanish, and learned from the culture and people of Chile." -- Jessie Marie White |
"This past summer I lived on the fifth floor of the YMCA in Valparaiso, Chile and served as an intern for the YMCA. I spent my days teaching at Jorge Williams, a school sponsored by the YMCA, and my afternoons at a residencia which can be compared to a foster home. Five other interns and I participated in various social programs and worked at the Jorge Williams as teaching assistants. One of my fondest memories with the children that lived in the residencia was taking a field trip to the zoo. We were each in charge of one or two kids, and it was amazing being able to spend all day hanging out and having fun while practicing Spanish at the same time.