While the CCS’ worldwide Drug and Alcohol Policy prohibits all volunteers under the age of 21 from consuming alcohol during their program, we have found that underage drinking tends to be more common and dangerous in Cape Town because of the social environment and heightened accessibility to alcohol. This breach of policy directly jeopardizes volunteer safety and security, and our ability to provide a comfortable environment for all of our volunteers. After careful consideration, CCS decided to make the minimum age requirement for independent volunteers in Cape Town match the U.S. legal drinking age of 21 in order to prevent violations of policy, promote a more positive and open environment for volunteers, and avoid additional risks to volunteer safety, which in the past has been compromised.
In keeping with our commitment to safety and security, and in preparation for the upcoming 2010 World Cup, when nearly half a million visitors are expected to visit South Africa in June and July, we feel this change will be a positive one.
Minors under 18 years old volunteering with a parent/guardian may continue to volunteer in Cape Town; participants between the ages of 18 and 20 who want to volunteer in South Africa may choose Robertson.
