Join Katimavik and spend 6 months volunteering in various communities across Canada!

“Katimavik offers Canadian youth the opportunity to contribute to the sustainable development of communities across Canada through challenging volunteer service programs.” – Katimavik.org

Created in 1977, Katimavik is the brainchild of Montreal journalist and human rights activist, Jacques Hébert. An intensive 6-month volunteer service program, youth aged 17 to 21 are given the opportunity to travel to two distinct regions of Canada, while working for non-profit organizations in specific communities. Each program has a theme such as: Cultural Discovery and Civic Engagement, Eco-citizenship and Active Living, or Second Language and Cultural Identity.

From Aboriginal to Francophone, all aspects of Canadian heritage are covered in this 6-month adventure. Volunteers are even given the chance to stay with a host family for a short amount of time during each of their work terms.

“Katimavik is an intense life changing experience in which you will be immersed in volunteer service work, a stimulating learning process and an unforgettable experience.” – Katimavik.org

The departure dates for next year are: January 5, 2011 to June 22, 2011 and July 6, 2011 to December 16, 2011. The deadline for submitting your application for each of these programs is: August 16, 2010 (for the January departure date) and February 15, 2011 (for the July departure date).

For more information on Katimavik, the kind of work volunteers are doing, and how to get involved, check out their website, Facebook, Twitter, and Blog. You can also visit Youtube and Flickr for videos and pictures from past programs.

Why wait until after you’re done your degree? Do something meaningful with your life today!

By Flavia Kajoba