Russian Kids. Do they bite?

June 7, 2008 11:09 AM

Does anyone have any experience or second-hand knowledge of volunteering with Cross Cultural Solutions?

Any stories of experience are appreciated, but I am particularly interested in any stories of volunteering/interning abroad with their Russia program. I will be volunteering with CCS in Yaroslavl from July 27th to August 10th. Any information prior to going would be great! Thanks.

posted by KoobieKitten to travel & transportation (1 comment total)

Have you already booked a spot? I ask because, if I remember correctly, CCS usually works through local organizations, for which you can often volunteer directly at a much reduced fee. The difference, for the Ecuador program, was about $300 - not that much, but enough to make a difference, esp. given that it's almost certainly going toward advertising and other ephemerals at CCS.

Hopefully that's not a bummer. On the plus side, I really enjoyed the volunteering experience in Ecuador - I'm sure it's nothing like the Russia program, but if your experience is anything similar to mine, you're going to have a fantastic time! I worked for three weeks on a biological reserve, and it was a pretty transformative experience - just about everyone there (including me) was scrambling to extend their time by the end.

Good luck, and have a great trip!
posted by puckish at 1:00 PM on June 7, 2008