Do you believe you can have fun while making a difference? The Irish Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (IASBAH) is now seeking volunteers to help run its Summer Project. Volunteers act as Care and Activity Workers and have an experience of a lifetime, for one week between June and August.

The Summer Project takes place over five separate weeks as follows:
Week 1: Over 18 years (Galway) Saturday 23rd June to Friday 29th June
Week 2: Special Care (Dublin) Saturday 7th July to Friday 13th July
Week 3: Over 18 years (Dublin) Saturday 14th July to Friday 20th July
Week 4: Teenagers (Dublin) Saturday 21st July to Friday 27th July
Week 5: Teenagers (Dublin) Saturday 28th July to Friday 3rd August

Food, accommodation and activities for volunteers are covered by IASBAH.

Every year, IASBAH runs a Summer Project for its members with the disabilities Spina Bifida and/ or Hydrocephalus. This unique service has been running since the 1980s and the Association needs volunteers in order for it to continue. 16 volunteers are needed for each week of the Summer Project.

As a Care and Activity Worker, you are responsible for encouraging and supporting participants to take part in fun activities, you work alongside nursing staff and occupational therapists in promoting independence skills and you make the week a fun and enjoyable one for all.

The Summer Project focuses on personal development and confidence building, aiming to build self-esteem and social skills of participants. Activities include occupational therapy, drama, music and art workshops, cooking, sport, self-defence, karaoke, yoga and excursions.
No week would be complete without the disco at the end! The main theme of the project is Independence Training and each participant sets individual goal(s) at the beginning of the week.

Usually, volunteers come from a health, education or social care background or have experience working with people with disabilities. However, training is provided so experience is not essential. Potential volunteers must be over 18, have two referees and be willing to attend an informal interview. IASBAH is looking for caring, patient, hard working, enthusiastic individuals.

For further information on IASBAH, or to get an application form, please see www.iasbah.ie, email wbrennan@iasbah.ie or call 01 4572329.