Programme details
| Programme length | Start | End | Price | Age on departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community Service Programme | August 2008 | February 2009 | $8,250 + $225 Visa | 19 - 28 |
Belgium’s art, food and architecture have been influenced by Rome, Spain, Austria, France, the Netherlands and Germany, each of which ruled the country during the past 2,000 years – giving Belgians a healthy scepticism of authority. But such scepticism has not made French-speaking Belgians insular. They are comfortable embracing the world’s contemporary culture while living among streets and squares that still feel medieval. Being hosted in the French-speaking community of Belgium, you’ll get to know the Walloons who live among the rolling hills of the Ardennes sprinkled with castles and the capital city of Brussels – home to both the European Union and NATO.
Thanks to many contacts with various cultures, Belgians are tolerant, flexible, modest, sincere, warm, friendly and open-minded. They value privacy, enjoy a safe and comfortable life, work hard and are self-disciplined. People will be glad to know you, but you may have to make the first steps toward establishing contact. By showing enthusiasm and interest, by using your charm, tact and openness, you will build real bonds with your new family and friends.
Family life
Family life is very important in Belgium. Both parents in the household usually work, and everyone in the household is expected to do their share of the housework and daily chores.
Family members and their friends and relatives will usually be close to each other, but in general, Belgians do not maintain very close contact with their neighbours. It is possible that apart from your host family and their friends, few people in the community will know about you or be acquainted with AFS.
Community Service in Belgium French
Participants could be working with the homeless and in lower-socio economic communities helping with gardening and providing meals and “DIY” projects. You could also work with the elderly, the disabled or refugees and help underprivileged children with reading and homework and organise children’s farm visits. Other projects include working with the environment or helping in schools by teaching English to students.
A basic level of the French language is required for this programme. Smokers, vegetarians and those allergic to animals are difficult to place.
