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Directors of S.O.S. Enfants Sourds

Sign Language Teachers are need immediately for two schools in Senegal.

This program is open to deaf students and teachers, the hearing impaired, and any individual able to commmunicate in American Sign Language.

All hearing impaired students that are fortunate enough to attend school in Senegal, learn American Sign Language.

Rev. Andrew Foster, a graduate of Gallaudent University in Washington, DC, opened this window of communication for several countries in West Africa in the 70s and 80s . He established 31 schools in all. In Senegal, Senecorps has partnered with two schools that are a part of his legacy. Since Rev. Foster's untimely death in 1987, the Deaf community in Senegal has been disconnected from their fellow and largely ignored by their statesmen. They have difficulty communicating with the French or people from other European nations who are Deaf because their signing is different. For over a decade, they have desperately sought partners to advance their understanding of signing techniques and facilitate a continued dialogue.

Each school has about 120-150 students with only about three to 6 teachers at each location. Typical classes have 30-40 students. There is a drastic drop in the higher grades as most students drop out either because they are unable to afford school fees or discouraged the lack of opportunities that currently exist for them if their families do continue to struggle to invest in their education.

Program Open to: All adults over the age of 18; seniors and retired educators are encouraged to apply. Applicants should be fluent in American Sign Language.

Living Arrangements: Homestays with local families

Program Dates: The programs are flexible for both locations.

Although knowledge is of French is not required, it is highly desirable. Persons without a French background will be able to teach Elementary classes and assist local staff with higher level classes. ; Some classroom or tutoring experience is recommended, but not required; Must be in good medical condition.

1-3 months contract: $650

5-month contract: $1100

10-month contract: $2000

Although all teachers are unpaid volunteers, this is an invaluable opportunity to live and work in a peaceful, French speaking country on the coast of West Africa. Your work will enable this community to realize many of their short-term and long-term academic and economic goals. You will help them perfect the communication tools that Rev. Foster brought to them so many years ago and allow them to access higher of education. Senecorps is committed to having at least 20 Deaf Student achieve their Baccalaureate and enroll in University courses in the next 10 years. Currently, there aren't any Deaf Students enrolled at either University in Senegal.

Volunteers will receive the support of their colleagues for lessons plans and teaching curriculum. Some schools desire volunteers to teach evening or weekend courses to faculty members.

This opportunity is ideal for professionals on sabbatical; students in between degrees or just wanting some time off to live, learn, and contribute to a community abroad; retired individuals; individuals with a sincere desire and the patience to make a difference in the lives of others.

What is included?

Placement and Orientation (classes in local culture, One Week Intensive Language Course (Wolof); Homestays, Airport Pick-up and Drop-Off; Pre-Departure and Local Support; 24-hour in-country emergency support services; Cultural Activities

What is not included?

International and Local Transportation; Pocket Money or other incidental expenses (Applicants should prepare about $100-150/month)

Senecorps operates as a local NGO (non-profit organization) in Senegal. We receive no additional funding to support these programs. The program fee helps us to recruit, support, and manage volunteers; employ a local a full-time staff to manage each project and support volunteers; pay local professionals to provide orientation and training (i.e. - Wolof courses); Senecorps also offers a stipend to local families that provide room and board for volunteers.

Besides the support extended to the volunteer, this fee allows us to supply the host school with much needed books, school supplies, scholarships, and renovation assistance.

Senecorps is a 501( c)3 tax-exempt organization, so the program fee is tax-deductible.

Click here to open the 2007 SIHIC Application.