Core Competencies for AMIGOS Volunteers

Based on experience, there are certain skills that volunteers must/should possess in order to be successful in Latin America. We have termed these skills the “core competencies” for AMIGOS volunteers. When evaluating whether a volunteer is appropriate for the AMIGOS program and whether they are likely to be successful, consider how well they meet each of the core competencies listed here.

AMIGOS Volunteers are empowered young leaders.

· Understand their roles as AMIGOS volunteers

· Organize information and resources

· Make sound decisions

· Solve problems

· Are skilled interpersonal communicators

· Have strong conversational skills in Spanish or Portuguese

· Appreciate and recognize human diversity

· Know effective methods for staying safe and healthy

AMIGOS Volunteers advance community development at home and abroad.

· Plan, implement, and evaluate projects

· Utilize approaches to education and development that build community

· Strive for sustainable programs

· Assess community resources, assets, and opportunities

· Collaborate with host communities and partner agencies

AMIGOS Volunteers strengthen multi-cultural understanding in the Americas.

· Are culturally sensitive

· Understand the process of cultural adjustment

· Understand the impact of culture

AMIGOS Volunteers learn through service.

· Understand personal motivation for service

· Understand the principles of service learning