Be The Change: Tuscany FAQ

 

Tell me more about Italy?
What is the climate like in Italy?
What will I be actually doing?
What kind of orientation will I receive when I arrive?
What immunizations/vaccines will I need?
Are we able to do any sightseeing on the training program?
Are there more expenses once I arrive?
Tell me more about the accommodation?
How many participants are there at the Be The Change program at the same time?
Can I bring my family, including children, to this program with me?
What is the criterion for volunteers to be accepted into the program?
Who organizes my visa for my volunteer placement?
Do I need travel insurance?
How do I pay my fees?

Tell me more about Italy?
Blessed with beauty, wine and an unparalleled artistic legacy, Tuscany's a region that largely lives up to its press. Its fabled rolling landscape has long been considered the embodiment of rural chic, a favourite of holidaying PMs and retired advertising executives, while its cities harbour a significant slice of the world's Renaissance art. Florence, in itself, boasts more world-class art than many countries. (Italy: Lonely Planet).

For more information we suggest you purchase the Lonely Planet's guide to Italy. For more information about Tuscany and the surrounding areas, please visit the Lonely Planet: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/italy/tuscany

What is the climate like in Italy?
Situated in the temperate zone and jutting deep into the Mediterranean, Italy is regarded by many tourists as a land of sunny, mild weather. However, due to the north-south orientation of the peninsula and the fact that it is largely mountainous, the country's climate is variable.

In Florence, encircled by hills, the weather can be quite extreme but, as you travel towards the tip of the boot, temperatures and weather conditions become milder. Rome, for instance, has an average July and August temperature in the mid-20s (Celsius), although the impact of the sirocco (a hot, humid wind blowing from Africa) can produce stiflingly hot weather in August, with temperatures in the high 30s for days on end. Winters are moderate and snow is rare in Rome, although winter clothing (or at least a heavy overcoat) is still a requirement. (Italy: Lonely Planet)

What will I be actually doing?
The GVN 'Be The Change' Course is designed to be flexible and self-determined to allow participants to cater the program to their specific interests and goals. Each day we will have a workshop that will provide you with specific skills that you can then directly apply to your project/idea or goal. Additionally we will be going on day trips with the focus of getting to know each other better. By the end of the course you will have become friends with a diverse an interesting group of individuals from all over the world. Additionally; each day you will have time to discuss your ideas and interests with Colin Salisbury, GVN's Founder and President. This program gives you one on one time with one of the top social entrepreneurs in the industry of international development.

What kind of orientation will I receive when I arrive?
Orientation day example-

• Meeting with Colin Salisbury, founder of GVN - Greeting, Introduction to 'Be The Change' Course
• Meet staff, introductions and explanation of what everyone does
• Know exactly the Goals and Objectives of the 'Be The Change Course'
• Skills/Passions Identification- How are you Wired? Workshop

What immunizations/vaccines will I need?
Although you are traveling in a developed country and there are no legally required vaccinations we do recommend Hepatitis A and B as well as tetanus.

Are we able to do any sightseeing on the training program?
During the week we will visit sites around Tuscany but there will not be time for individual travel. Many of our participants choose to arrive to Italy early or leave late so they may do their own traveling before or after the course (often participants will travel together, therefore planning on staying late is usually the best option).

Are there more expenses once I arrive?
The in-country fee covers accommodation, meals and transport costs while working. If you arrive early or intend to stay beyond your program time in Italy then you will need to have additional money for this time. Other expenses not covered by your fees include: your flights, entry visa (if applicable), travel insurance, departure tax, and any personal spending.

Tell me more about the accommodation?
You will be staying with other participants; the accommodation is four star, beautiful and has most amenities people will be used to (TV, internet access, washing facilities etc). The accommodation is run like a cooperative style house where you will share duties such as cooking and cleaning with the other interns. Bedding and 3 meals per day will be provided.

How many participants are there at the Be The Change program at the same time?
The GVN Be The Change Course is limited to up to 20 participants to allow maximum individual attention and productivity.

Can I bring my family, including children, to this program with me?
Because of the nature of the accommodation, and the work that you will be involved with, it is not appropriate to bring young children with you for this project. If your child is 16 or over please note that in some cases GVN will allow a parent/child team to join the program. If you would like to bring a child who is over 16 please note that on your application and coordinator will contact you to discuss this further. GVN encourages couples to attend the program.

What is the criterion for volunteers to be accepted into the program?
Each applicant is considered by the information they provide on their application. If further information is required applicants will be emailed to request this. Please refer to the program requirements listed on the program page which outlines the minimum expectations of what is required for participating in this specific program. We look at volunteer and work experiences, travel experience and also your particular interest in the program before making our decision. Please try to be as specific as possible and provide as many details in your application as possible.

Who organizes my visa for my volunteer placement?
You will, if you require one. If you need to obtain a visa you will need to contact your nearest Italian Embassy.

Do I need travel insurance?
As with any overseas travelling, insurance is recommended. The Global Volunteer Network has arranged a comprehensive travel insurance package specially designed for volunteering. It includes excellent medical and accident coverage as well as a 'loss of deposits' cover which covers fees paid to GVN, airlines etc (up to US$8,000). If you would like to learn more just follow this link: http://www.globalvolunteernetwork.org/insurance/.

How do I pay my fees?
Your application fee secures your place on the program (remember this is fully transferable to a later date or different program if you decide not to take part in the program, subject to the terms of service). Your program fee is payable to GVN Foundation 8 weeks before you begin the program, and is non-refundable.