Cross-Cultural Solutions Launches New Program Site in South Africa
December 18, 2008
Cross-Cultural Solutions (CCS) just launched a new opportunity for people to volunteer in Africa this coming spring and summer—Robertson, South Africa.
Start dates for the new Robertson site are currently offered from April to August 2009 with programs ranging from three to 12 weeks.
Robertson is a small, countryside town located 90 minutes from Cape Town on the longest wine route in South Africa, the popular Route 62. It is not only known as one of today's most attractive Cape Wineland towns, but the surrounding region, home to approximately 17,000 people, is also international recognized for its award-winning wines.
International tourists know Robertson for its lush landscape, near the scenic Langeberg Mountains, and visit the local wineries for tours and tastings. However, CCS volunteers will have the opportunity to gain more profound insights into the culture of this historic town. They will work side-by-side with local people, and see the remnants of social inequality from apartheid, slavery, and feudalism. Volunteers will learn about the disparity in the region between farm owners and farm workers and the challenges—old and new—that community members face as a result.
Despite laws against the "tot system," this once-common practice of paying farm workers with alcohol has deeply affected health and other social issues for the community members of Robertson. More recently, the migration of laborers looking for new job opportunities at farms and fruit factories has brought an influx of new people and cultures into the region.
The focus of CCS volunteers in Robertson will be supporting farm workers and their families through daycares, schools, special education or vocational centers, and other community organizations.
Robertson is the second site in South Africa for CCS. Since 2007, the organization has already worked with over 500 international volunteers in the city of Cape Town. The scenic, rural Robertson site offers a smaller community feel versus the international urban feel of Cape Town. This allows CCS to showcase two very different sides of South Africa.
CCS volunteer programs are open to people of all ages and skill levels. The programs include Volunteer Work, Cultural & Learning Activities, Free Time, and lodging at a CCS Home-Base where volunteers live together. Meals and transportation to and from volunteer sites are also included.
About Cross-Cultural Solutions
Cross-Cultural Solutions was founded in 1995 and operates volunteer programs in 12 countries around the world in partnership with sustainable community initiatives. As a not-for-profit organization with no religious or political affiliations, Cross-Cultural Solutions brings people together to work side-by-side while sharing perspectives and fostering cultural understanding.
Contact Info
Kam Santos, Director of Communications
1-914-632-0022
kam@crossculturalsolutions.org
