FAQs

If you've got questions, we've got answers!

Common Questions and Answers

Volunteering in another country for 6 to 12 months is a huge undertaking. 

A fundamental role of the Cagliero team is to support you in discerning whether or not this is the right program for you. When considering a volunteer program, it is integral to ensure that it is aligned with your particular values and skill set. 

This is why asking questions and discussing your concerns with us is an important part of the decision making process.

 

Here are some of our frequently asked questions, if we have left something unanswered, please contact us! 

We are happy to reply to all your questions and support you throughout the discernment process. The Cagliero Project office staff are really committed to making sure that all potential volunteers have a good understanding of the program and the different placements. No question is too small or insignificant!

 

Are the placements safe?

The Cagliero Project has established meaningful, long-term relationships with all its placements, allowing for constant and clear communication. However, there is always an inherent risk when travelling to developing countries. Should a location ever become unstable, the Cagliero Project will ensure the safety of its volunteers.

What are the living standards like?

In most of our placements, volunteers will have access to a private room and bathroom. While volunteers are provided with everything they need, the living conditions are basic.

What does it mean to work with a Catholic organisation?

We appreciate and value the diversity of our volunteers and accept individuals coming from a variety of faith, spiritual and cultural backgrounds. As volunteers work very closely with Catholic Priests and Sisters, it is really important that they respect the Catholic ethos under which they are working.

What is the length of the volunteer placements?

The Cagliero Project accepts volunteers for a minimum of six months to a maximum of twelve months. Many of our placements have a twelve-month requirement however there are also six-month volunteer opportunities available.

Where do Cagliero volunteers live during their placement?

All volunteers live and work closely with a Salesian community, which is usually made up of Salesian Priests or Sisters and other volunteers. All volunteers live in the same location where they carry out their work.

Do I have to pay for anything?

Although they receive no financial payment, we do not want our volunteers to be financially disadvantaged in any way. The Cagliero Project pays for plane tickets, travel and medical insurance, visa expenses and all cost associated with attending and participating in the formation program. The overseas placement pays for accommodation, food and basic necessities.

Will I have to learn another language?

It is not imperative to speak the local language of the host country, however we do recommend learning at least some of the language. Some placements will provide formal language lessons for volunteers depending on the duration of their stay.

Do you offer any short-term experiences?

The Cagliero Project offers an annual short-term immersion experience. It generally lasts between two and three weeks, and gives people an opportunity to experience life in a developing country within a Salesian setting.

Do you have to be an Australian citizen to volunteer?

To volunteer with the Cagliero Project individuals need to be a citizen of Australia or New Zealand or a permanent resident of Australia.

Does the Cagliero Project accept couples?

It is possible to place couples providing it is appropriate within the cultural context of the placement. Unmarried couples may be able to work in the same placement but will be unable to share a room

Can I choose where my placement is?

Prospective volunteers have an opportunity on the application to specify the area that they would prefer to work. Placing volunteers is a process of discerning the best possible outcome for both the volunteer and the placement, based on the skills, interests and talents of the volunteer.

Can I have visitors?

Visits from parents, family or friends are encouraged during appropriate times. All arrangements must be made with the placement supervisor to ensure that no burden is placed on the community.

Can I take holidays during my volunteer placement?

During a placement, volunteers are allowed a period of holidays: two weeks for a six-month placement and four weeks for a twelve-month placement. Holiday breaks should be agreed upon between the supervisor and volunteer and should be taken during usual school holidays or breaks in the program.