Program. English Literacy & Youth Development in Cairo, Egypt.

Program Dates: June 24 - August 4, 2007
Egypt is an ideal location to launch our network because of its centrality to the Arab world and pressing social concerns. There is a huge demand for accessible English classes in and around Cairo because English is the language of globalization and economic opportunity. English fluency empowers individuals, expanding their career options and opening a gateway to the English-speaking world. Volunteers will teach English in Cairo and surrounding communities, including support staff at The American University in Cairo. They will also lead a summer program for children focusing on English, sports, drama, and arts.

Partner Organization
Gerhart Center: The John D. Gerhart Center for Philanthropy and Civic Engagement at The American University in Cairo (AUC) has a dual focus – to consolidate university activities aimed at encouraging engaged citizenship and service, and to promote enhanced philanthropic giving in the Arab region. The Center began a literacy program in 2006 to teach office staff and security guards at AUC spoken and written English. Volunteers will teach English courses within this program during the summer session when AUC volunteers are scarce.

Volunteer Logistics
Housing: Volunteers will live in communal apartments (one male, one female) or stay in a youth hostel within walking distance of AUC.

Arabic: Volunteers will study Egyptian colloquial Arabic several hours per week for the duration of the program. Program staff will assist volunteers with arranging more intense Arabic study if they wish to take more classes at their own expense.

Health: Volunteers will be required to have American health insurance, evacuation insurance, and emergency medical insurance. Routine health services and medications are readily available and inexpensive.

Cultural Trips: Program staff will arrange several optional cultural visits based on
volunteer interest. These could include: the pyramids at Giza, the Egyptian museum, Coptic Cairo, or Islamic Cairo.

Training: Volunteers will participate in a one-week orientation program that will include Arabic, teacher training from the School of Continuing Education at AUC, and group reflection and practice.

Safety: According to the US Department of State, Egypt has a relatively low crime rate. As in any large city in the world, however, volunteers, especially women, need to exercise caution at night. Volunteers should also avoid travel in the Sinai.