01. Who are the sponsoring organizations?

A. FUNDAMED, a Brazilian Foundation responsible for hosting 90% of the US medical missions in Brazil and Sister Cities of Brazil Institute, the largest organizations responsible for citizens exchange in Brazil.

02. What do former volunteers have to say about the program?

A. Please refer to our Testimonial section.

03. What kind of provision will be made for health insurance while you are in Brazil?

A. Additional health insurance should be purchased ahead of the mission.

04. What kind of staff supervision is provided by the sponsoring organization?

A. Volunteer Brazil project director will stay with the volunteers during the entire mission to assist with translation, job assignments, and insure complete understanding of local culture, society and Brazilian lifestyle.

05. What are the living arrangements going to be?

A. Volunteer Brazil will provide proper accommodations near the ocean and specially chosen menu for the team members. Volunteers should expect to share suites with for 2-3 people. Proper recommendation should be made ahead regarding special food requests (vegetarian, low-fat, low-salt, etc.).

06. How does the organization prepare its participants for the experience?

A. Volunteer Brazil will provide all the necessary information to make your trip to Brazil as productive and successful as possible. Please read our section on Tips for Volunteers.

07. What visa or documents are necessary for the trip?

A. For US and Canadian volunteers, you will need a tourist visa. Please check our list of Brazilian Consulates to find the one closest to you. For European volunteers, there is no need for entry visa. Please refer to our Travel Information section.

08. How can I communicate with my family back home?

A. The volunteer group will have a cell phone in-country to receive calls from home. This phone can also be used for emergencies. E-mail and internet access is available in the cities.

09. What should I bring to Brazil?

A. We suggest volunteers to bring summer clothing, trekking shoes, personal toiletries and your basic medicine, along with camera and lots of films.

10. Will I have any other expenses?

A. No matter which program you choose, you will need some extra spending money. But Brazil is an inexpensive place for shopping. Fortaleza provides many opportunities for purchasing gifts/handicrafts for friends and family. You can exchange currency in Fortaleza or at the airport. There is 24 hour ATMs around. Traveler's checks are not accepted at all places and should be avoided.

11. Are there any other health suggestions?

A. We suggest that volunteers consult a physician prior to the trip for consultation. Brazil offers basic medical services and there are hospitals for emergency medical services. If you are taking any medicine, we suggest you bring your prescription from home, in your carry-on luggage.

12. How can I raise money to cover my expenses?

A. Many volunteers raise money for their international volunteer experience by writing letters to friends and relatives. Some have solicited aid from organizations such as Rotary and Lyons Clubs. Others participants have raised money through creative fundraising at workplace or at their churches.

13. What is the best time to visit Brazil?

A. Any time you can! Temperature in the northeast region of Brazil varies between 75°-95° degrees all year around. Volunteer Brazil will only host 01 volunteer group per month so go ahead and make your reservation as soon as possible.