Solidarity Tour to Bolivia 2015 Welcome and thank you for your interest in serving with us! Your life will change…… Whose life will you change? In this information package you will find: a) Mission introduction b) Draft itinerary c) Cost estimate d) Mission FAQs e) Packing list f) g) h) i) j) Document checklist; Informed Consent Release of All Claims; Photograph Waiver Medical Examination Form Application (Personal Information Form) Payment form MISSION INTRODUCTION Dates: March 15-23*, 2015 Location: Chalice Sponsor Sites: (Sub-Site Codes) Cochabamba, 4th largest city in Bolivia PENNT (PNT), Warmi (AMI, MIS), Fatima (FAT) and Amanecer (AMA, ASK, GMA, MDO) (*Return flight may require an overnight on March 23, depending on home city.) Mission Objectives Learn about and witness the works of compassion at Chalice Sponsor Sites in Bolivia. Build relationships with our Bolivian friends and colleagues. Increase awareness about sponsorship and commit as a group to secure 50 new sponsorships. Collectively raise $20,000 towards Computer Labs for 4 communities serving 1200 children on a daily basis. Serve in a variety of contexts to support the work of Chalice’s partners. Pack a second suitcase with specific items that are most needed at the communities to be visited. Be informed Chalice Champions with a desire to inspire other Canadians with our vision. 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia Why a Solidarity Tour? Solidarity is defined as “unity or agreement of feeling or action, especially among individuals with a common interest; mutual support within a group” (Oxford Dictionary). Chalice’s Solidarity Tours provide an opportunity for our supporters and our partners to experience and grow in solidarity and mutual support. This fall Pope Francis spoke about the term solidarity: “It is a word that indicates much more than a few sporadic acts of generosity, the Pope affirmed. ‘It means thinking and acting in terms of community, of prioritising the life of all over and above the appropriation of goods by the few’” (“Pope: Every Worker Has Right to Fair Pay, Zenit, October 28, 2014). On this mission we will bring together our brothers and sisters from both Canada and Bolivia so that we can learn to better think and act as a community, and continue to do so in our home countries. Our Partners This mission will bring us to 4 Sponsor Sites in the city of Cochabamba, Bolivia. Through service and celebration, we will have an opportunity to meet the men and women whose daily lives are in service to the children and families who are sponsored by Chalice. Site Name: Director: Partners: Location: Sponsored: Programmes: PENNT Ms. Maria del Rosario Zambrana FACO Foundation Cochabamba city 765 children After School Programme, Soup Kitchens, and Medical Clinics in all 4 Parishes Cochabamba is the 4th largest city in Bolivia, with a population of just over 1 million people. One of the biggest challenges Bolivia faces is that more than 800,000 children between the ages of 5 and 15 work as street vendors, shoe polishers, or in hotels, restaurants, and markets. It is estimated that about 200,000 of these child workers are in Cochabamba. For these children, if it is too much to keep up with both work and school, they drop out of school. The Site helps children who are working on the streets trying to earn enough income to remain in school, as well as help support their families. In response to the high school dropout rate, the Site has a Schooling Programme that helps children, ages 7 to 14 years old, in four locations throughout the city. The Site’s goal is to improve the quality of life of the sponsored children through the implementation of prevention, attention, and protection activities. The Site focuses on five strategic areas: education, nutrition, health/hygiene, clothing, and family/community. All sponsored children have access to afterschool support programmes, as well as nutrition programmes. Different activities and workshops are offered focusing on health and hygiene as well as family and community issues. Site Name: Director: Partners: Location: Sponsored: Programmes: Warmi Mrs. Claudia Jimenez Centro Integral Warmi (Warmi Holistic Centre) Pacata and Tiquipaya communities, in the city of Cochabamba 257 children 2 Childcare Centres The Site assists children mainly from immigrant families, many living in single parent families or with relatives. The parents are most often domestic workers, miners, or street vendors. They do not own their own home and often live in group family arrangements. Challenges include lack of job opportunities, child abandonment, alcoholism, domestic violence, family disintegration, overcrowded and poor housing, poor sanitation, deficient health services, malnutrition, and gender inequality. In Tiquipaya, the main source of income is farming, flower cultivation, livestock production, as well as nonagricultural activities. The Site’s goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and educational environment to children through their 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia childcare centres where they receive a warm meal, education, and health assistance. It promotes a safe and protective space that fosters the formation of spiritual and personal development of children, teenagers, and women, as members of a strengthened family. Site Name: Director: Partners: Location: Sponsored: Programme: Fatima Fr. Jesus Osorno Our Lady of Fatima Parish Distric 9 of Cochabamba city 409 children 4 Soup kitchens, 4 After School Programmes, Chalice Children Nutrition Programme District Nine is the biggest, most populated, poorest, and most violent district in the city of Cochabamba. Most families are unemployed and there is a high incidence of domestic violence. The children either go to the streets to work or are locked in their houses to look after younger siblings. It is very important to note that this region has the highest infant mortality in Bolivia; 9/100 children die within their first year. It also has one of the highest death rates in the world. Chalice works through Our Lady of Fatima Parish, which focuses on a better quality of life for children and their families. The Sponsor Site team works closely with Bolivian families to alleviate conditions of extreme poverty by providing support in the areas of education, health and nutrition. They help the children develop and grow as good human beings, make friends, be responsible for their own personal development, do their best in school, and improve their health, both physically and spiritually. The Sponsor Site continuously defines actions to unite families with their community through activities such as community work, participation in educational workshops, and school breakfasts. Site Name: Director: Partners: Location: Sponsored: Programme: Amanecer Sr. Maria Jose Pascual Sisters of the Daughters of St Vincent de Paul Congregation and Fundación Amanecer (Daybreak Foundation) Cochabamba city 180 children 6 homes for children (4 of which are supported by Chalice); supporting children, adolescents, women and babies who have been mistreated, abandoned, and live on the streets; Chalice Children Nutrition Programme Maribel is one of our field workers from Amanecer Sponsor Site Amanecer means “daybreak” in Spanish. One of the biggest concerns is the lack of support towards children and teenagers who are currently on the streets. The needs of this population are not being met by any institution. This situation is particularly disturbing as the dignity and rights of these young people are continuously ignored because of the regular abuse and hostility they suffer on the streets. Sponsorship promotes physical, intellectual, and social development, with the longterm goal of reintegration into society with increased self-respect, as well as the skills and abilities to economically maintain themselves. Amanecer strives to reintegrate the children with their families and the community by providing various programmes based on preventive intervention, education, and therapeutic support. The Site organizes many activities and workshops to address the needs of the individual participants to help them to discover and strengthen their practical and social skills. Priority is given to schooling, nutrition, and health needs of the children. The Site believes fulfilling these basic needs creates a crucial safe environment. They also believe that education brings about real and beneficial change to people's lives, in particular the children, giving them the tools to build their own future. 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia Sponsorship Prior to our mission, we will learn about the gift of sponsorship. When families bear the hardship of poverty, sponsorship is the hand of another person reaching out to help. In reaching out, we share the gifts already entrusted to us: education, nutrition, healthcare and empowerment. It is a gift not only for the child who is sponsored, their family and community – but also a gift for us here in Canada. In the spirit of St. Francis, we acknowledge the beauty of this truth: it is better to give than to receive. This truth is a gift we can share with our communities, families and the children in our own homes. As a team, we will inspire and facilitate the sponsorship of 50 children – all of whom live in and near the communities we will visit in Bolivia. We will have an opportunity to spend time with these children, and can bring them personal greetings from their sponsor families in Canada. Fundraising for Computer Labs As a team, we will raise $20,000 towards building and equipping 4 Computer Labs for the Parishes served by PENNT Sponsor Site. These Parishes collectively support 1200 children on an ongoing basis (765 of them sponsored). There are daily activities serving in the areas of healthcare (medical clinics), education (after-school programmes) and nutrition (soup kitchens). Currently the students do not have access to computers; this project will give them a hand-up by increasing computer literacy. In this way, our time in Bolivia will have a concrete and lasting impact. Each mission participant will have access to a personal online fundraising page and will be supported in their fundraising efforts by the rest of the team and the Mission Coordinator. Mission Service While on mission, we will work alongside our partners to assist them in their daily work. Each Site will have similar and unique opportunities for us to serve. For example, all of them have soup kitchens which serve lunch daily. We will both serve and enjoy lunch during these times. All of them have also requested dental hygiene briefing. Some of the unique services include requests for cooking, hairdressing and sewing classes. We will also lead some “special events” during our mission, including celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, Father’s Day/St. Joseph’s feast day, mural painting, a prayer service, and a kids’ birthday party. We will bring a Canadian twist to these celebrations with the children! Volunteers with particular skills are invited to put them to use. In particular we are seeking dentists and dental hygienists – there is a great need among all the communities and we have a local dentist who can partner with us to serve during our mission. Other examples from past missions include offering a workshop on a particular handicraft (ex: crocheting plastic bags into floor mats), English language lessons, or physiotherapy for undernourished children. If you have an idea for a particular workshop, please indicate this on your application form. Second Suitcase We will also each be packing a second suitcase with donation items. We have asked those we will visit what kinds of items would be most beneficial. The requests are as follows: • Soccer equipment • Toothbrushes and paste • First Aid kit items • School supplies • Craft supplies for workshop • Non-prescription medicines • Didactic (learning) toys • Gardening gloves, tools • Thermometers 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia Optional Touring – Salar de Uyuni (Salt Flats of Uyuni) “The savage beauty of this vast salt desert makes it one of South America's most awe-inspiring spectacles. From strange islands in a sea of blindingly bright salt to delicately colored mineral lakes in the Andean mountains, this is an unforgettable Bolivian landscape.” (www.lonelyplanet.com) Our Solidarity Tour will end on Sunday, March 22 and from there members of the team are welcome to: (a) return home, or (b) continue on for further touring adventures. Please note that this portion is optional and will not be staffed by Chalice Canada or our Bolivian partners. The additional three days of touring includes visits to: • The great salt flats of Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flats • Uyuni’s ‘train graveyard’ to see the first locomotives in Bolivia • Salt miners workshops, an ancient cemetery, museum, displays of local handicrafts • Visit a hotel made completely of salt (“Hotel de Sal”) • Siloli Desert (at 4550m it is the highest and driest in the world) • Incahuasi Island, where you will see giant cactus and rock formations made of petrified coral • Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve • Ollagüe Volcano (viewed from a distance), along with other volcanoes • Colourful lagoons • Dali Desert, where Salvador Dali found his inspiration • Hot springs – take a bath at 35°C! Also includes bilingual guide, transportation by 4x4 vehicles, entry into all touristic sites, breakfast/lunch/dinner all days except Day 3 (only breakfast/lunch), and flight from Cochabamba (where Solidarity Tour ends) to Uyuni, and from Uyuni to Santa Cruz (where you will depart on your international flight). Please indicate your preference to join/skip this tour on your application form. (Your international flights cannot be booked for you until you have made this choice.) Your Mission Hosts Patricia Bozo de Duran Douglas Estanga International Manager for Latin America Joanne Albrecht Regional Manager for Latin America Maria del Rosario Director for PENNT Sponsor Site Mission Coordinator 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia Timeline Jan 19 Applications due, including $500 non-refundable mission trip programme fee (cheque or credit card) Jan 21 Final participants confirmed (applicants are confirmed throughout application period) Jan 26 Flight payment due to Merit Travel (& insurance, if applicable) Feb 4 Team Skype/telephone meeting 1, 8 p.m. Atlantic Time Submit signed Release of All Claims against Chalice, Photo Waiver, Informed Consent and Medical Examination Form Feb 16 Balance of mission payment due to Chalice Feb 18 Team Skype/telephone meeting 2, 8 p.m. Atlantic Time Mar 4 Team Skype/telephone meeting 3, 8 p.m. Atlantic Time Mar 15 Departure from Toronto (or alternate routing) to Santa Cruz Mar 23 Arrival in Toronto, if omitting touring Mar 26 Arrival in Toronto, if touring included If you have any questions, please contact: Joanne Albrecht, Mission Trip Coordinator 1-800-776-6855 joannealbrecht@chalice.ca See you soon! 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca ¡See you soon! Solidarity Tour to Bolivia Your life will change…… Whose life will you change? Tour de Solidaridad Bolivia 2015 - DRAFT DAY 1 DATE SUN 15-Mar 2 MON 16-Mar 3 TUE 17-Mar TIME AM PM Evening AM PM Evening AM PM Evening 4 WED 18-Mar AM PM Evening 5 THU 19-Mar AM PM Evening 6 FRI 20-Mar AM PM Evening 7 SAT 21-Mar AM PM Evening 8 SUN 22-Mar 9 MON 23-Mar 10 TUE 24-Mar AM PM Evening AM PM Evening AM PM Evening Mission Team Activities TRAVEL DAY - Morning/Afternoon flights into Toronto 19:15 Depart Toronto, 22:24 Arrive Miami, 23:50 Depart Miami >>> >>> 9:07 Arrive Santa Cruz; Morning Departure from Santa Cruz (domestic flight) Arrive Cochabamba; Time for rest; Organize donation items Welcome gathering offered by PENNT PENNT - Parishes of Condebamba, Guadalupe, La Salette & San Carlos 7:00 Morning Prayer, 7:30 Breakfast, 9:00 Morning Service at Site 12:00 Serve & have lunch at Soup Kitchen 1:00 St. Patrick's Day Afternoon Service at Site 6:00 Dinner, 7:00 evening prayer and team meeting PENNT - Parishes of Condebamba, Guadalupe, La Salette & San Carlos 7:00 Morning Prayer, 7:30 Breakfast, 9:00 Morning Service at Site 12:00 Serve & have lunch at Soup Kitchen 1:00 Afternoon Service at Site, 4:30 Depart for home 6:00 Dinner, 7:00 evening prayer and team meeting PENNT - Parishes of Condebamba, Guadalupe, La Salette & San Carlos 7:00 Morning Prayer, 7:30 Breakfast, 9:00 Morning Service at Site 12:00 Serve & have lunch at Soup Kitchen 1:00 St. Joseph's Feast & Father's Day Afternoon Service & Soccer Tournament 6:00 Dinner, 7:00 evening prayer and team meeting Warmi 7:00 Morning Prayer, 7:30 Breakfast, 9:00 Morning Service at Site 12:00 Serve & have lunch at Soup Kitchen 1:00 Mural Painting at Site 6:00 Dinner, 7:00 evening prayer and team meeting Fatima 7:00 Morning Prayer, 7:30 Breakfast, 9:00 Morning Service at Site 12:00 Serve & have lunch at Soup Kitchen 1:00 Prayer Connect 6:00 Dinner, 7:00 evening prayer and team meeting Amanecer 7:00 Morning Prayer, 7:30 Breakfast, 9:00 Morning Service at Site 12:00 Serve & have lunch at Soup Kitchen 1:00 Birthday Party at MDO 6:00 Chalice Champion Celebration TRAVEL DAY - Early morning departure from Cochabamba and arrival in Santa Cruz, 10:35 Depart Santa Cruz 17:21 Arrive Miami, 20:10 Depart Miami, 23:28 Arrive Toronto, overnight in Toronto (if required) TRAVEL DAY - Individual flights to home cities (or potential routing from Miami straight to home cities) TOURING ADD-ON, optional 9 MON 23-Mar 10 TUE 24-Mar 11 WED 25-Mar 12 THU 26-Mar AM PM Evening AM PM Evening AM PM Evening AM PM Evening TOURING DAY - 3:00 Depart Cochabamba, 8:40 Arrive Uyuni, 10:00 Tour begins TOURING DAY TOURING DAY 19:00 Depart Uyuni, 20:20 Arrive Santa Cruz TRAVEL DAY COST ESTIMATE Paid to Chalice: Paid to Merit Travel: Total $500 $894 $792 $1500* $2894 $3686 Mission Trip Programme Fee; due upon acceptance to mission team Land portion (transportation, food, accommodations); due Feb 16 3-Day Touring – Optional Add-On; due Feb 16 Flight from home cities to Santa Cruz, return; due Jan 26 (flights can also be purchased upon acceptance to team) Without Touring (estimate) Including Touring (estimate) *More on Flights: Cost is only an estimate and is not guaranteed until payment is made to Merit Travel. Flights from Toronto are currently priced at $1375. For more precise flight booking details, contact us. Flights can be booked prior to the deadline, if desired. Not included in the cost estimate: • Insurance (worldwide medical required, cancellation/interruption strongly advised) • Immunizations & medications (you must consult a health professional) • Overnight accommodations on March 23 (if required) • Meals in airports • Alcoholic beverages • Tips Tourist Visa: Canadians are not required to have a Tourist Visa for entry into Bolivia for visits of up to 30 days. Mission Trip Programme Fee: Please include a $500 non-refundable mission trip programme fee with your application. You may make payment by cheque or credit card. Your payment will not be processed until you have been accepted to the mission team. Please see the Mission Trip Programme Fee payment form (included in this package). Our Travel Planners: Chalice works with Dave Wentworth from Merit Travel as our travel planner (formerly the Adventure Travel Company, www.merittravel.com/expert-profile/dave-dw-wentworth/). Flights: We prefer to book all participants’ flights so that we can ensure a smooth and timely arrival for the group. If, however, you would like to book your flight separately, you must indicate this on your application form. We will then work with you to ensure that the flights you select will allow you to travel with the group. You must confirm your proposed flights with the Mission Coordinator before purchase. Insurance: All participants must have worldwide travel medical Insurance. Cancellation and interruption insurance is optional, though strongly advised. If you have your own insurance provider, you must provide Chalice with the details of your coverage (agency, policy number and emergency contact information) as well as proof (copy). You may also purchase your insurance through Merit. If you make this request on your application form, our travel planner will be in touch to arrange it for you. 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE TRIP? At Chalice, we hear daily about the good work that is being done at our Sponsor Sites. We also hear daily about the love and concern of our supporters. We have designed our mission trips to provide an opportunity for our supporters and our Chalice family at the Sites to meet and to build relationships with each other. We will accomplish this by working together, praying together, and playing together! (Please note: those who are not currently supporters but who wish to learn about Chalice’s works of compassion are also welcome to apply.) WHAT WILL WE BE REQUIRED TO DO? We will spend seven unforgettable days in Cochabamba, Bolivia. We will see things that typical tourists do not have an opportunity to see. Time will be spent in service of the four Sponsor Sites, allowing us to “roll up our sleeves” and be part of the ongoing work. We will engage with and learn from our partner colleagues, sponsored children and their families, and community members. We will exercise our willingness learn and to be open to new things and new people. WHAT WILL WE SEE? We will see and experience something different each day. We will see life as it is lived in the communities of Cochabamba, Bolivia. We will get to know people, from religious orders as well as the lay community, whose lives are dedicated to serving the families in their community. We will meet and spend time with sponsored children and their families in their humble homes. We will experience Mass and prayer at the local churches. Lastly, we will see ourselves, our country, and our world anew in light of all of these experiences. WHERE WILL WE STAY AND EAT? During our time in Cochabamba, we will stay at a retreat centre called Casa Nazaria Ignacia. Our accommodations will be humble but safe and clean. We will be lodging with one person to a room during the mission. During the touring add-on, it will be two people to a room. If you would like to pay an additional fee for single-occupancy, please indicate this on your application form. Breakfast and supper will be at the retreat centre and lunch will be prepared for us at the soup kitchens where we will also be serving. Bottled drinking water will be provided at 2L per person per day. All efforts will be made to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Keep in mind that while touring Bolivia we will not have all of the luxuries of travel at home. Expectations should be kept realistic and at times accommodations may be less than ideal. Anyone with special dietary requirements can be accommodated, although variety in meals will be limited. Please be sure to inform the Mission Coordinator of any dietary concerns or restrictions on your application form (so that we have time to accommodate). WHAT KIND OF TRANSPORTATION WILL BE USED? We will be travelling by private bus and/or van with experienced drivers. 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia HOW MUCH WILL IT COST? Please refer to the cost estimate included in this package. WILL I RECEIVE A DONATION RECEIPT? No, Chalice does not issue charitable donation (tax) receipts for mission trip payments. According to Canada Revenue Agency’s definition of a donation, a person making a required payment for a mission trip cannot receive a donation receipt. However, donation receipts will certainly be issued for all donations made towards the Computer Labs and Sponsorships. DO I NEED ANY SHOTS OR MEDICATIONS BEFORE TRAVELLING? The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include consulting a doctor, nurse or health care provider, or visiting a travel health clinic, preferably six weeks before you travel (http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/tmppmv/countries-pays/country-pays-eng.php?id=349). Based on your individual assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventative medications and advise you on precautions to take. Travelers are also reminded to ensure that their routine childhood immunizations are up to date (ex, tetanus, diphtheria, polio and measles). Chalice staff are not qualified to provide travel medical advice. WHAT SHOULD I PACK? You will be permitted to bring two pieces of checked baggage and a carry-on bag. To help us meet our mission objectives, you may wish to bring with you donated items from friends, family and your wider community (church, group, etc.). Our Sponsor Sites have given us a list of the most needed items (see “Second Suitcase” on page 4) and you can also bring Canadian souvenir items to share. We request participants to allow as much space as possible for these donated items. One suitcase/duffle bag should be packed with your personal items for the mission. The second bag is typically packed with donated items. Baggage size and weight restrictions will be shared once flights are booked. For your personal items, please refer to the packing guide included in this package. WHY DO I NEED TO INCLUDE THE RESULTS OF A CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK (CRC) WITH VULNERABLE SECTOR SEARCH (VSS)? The results of a CRC (only) are required to be submitted by all volunteers between 19 and 24 years of age. The results of a CRC with VSS are required to be submitted by all volunteers 25 years of age or older. These documents are required for most volunteer positions within Canada that involve working with vulnerable persons. Chalice requires it of all overseas visitors and volunteers. Because it can take several weeks to process, we require that you request it before submitting your application. Chalice can assist with this process; contact us for more details. If you have had a CRC with VSS completed for a past mission with Chalice, please contact us for further details. BY WHEN DO I NEED TO DECIDE? Applications are due January 19 and our team will be confirmed by January 21. Participants will be booked on a first come, first qualified basis. HOW DO I APPLY? Complete the 3-page application at the back of this information package. Enclose a copy of your passport, CRC with VSS, and a $500 non-refundable mission trip programme fee. Submit your completed application: By Email: joannealbrecht@chalice.ca By Mail*: Joanne Albrecht, Mission Coordinator Chalice 1 – 445 Sackville Dr Lower Sackville, NS B4C 2S1 *If you submit your application by mail, please notify the Mission Coordinator by email or phone call. 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Joanne meeting her sponsor child, Brayan, and his little brother, Andreas - 2012 Solidarity Tour to Bolivia Solidarity Tour to Bolivia PACKING GUIDE The following are suggestions to help you prepare for our upcoming trip. Most Importantly Mission participants need a healthy, happy and resilient disposition. All things won't be like home. You are taking a trip to experience another country and culture and you will not be disappointed. However, there will be times when you will be inconvenienced, so expect to exercise patience and understanding. Medications All prescriptions – in original containers and packed in your carry-on Over the counter medications you typically use Small first aid box with items like Polysporin, cloth Band-Aids, a topical anti-itch/antihistamine cream, allergy decongestant, antacid, anti-diarrhea, Pepto-Bismol tablets, Tylenol, etc. We recommend that you take a daily multi-vitamin for the duration of the mission trip to help with the change in diet and to help keep your immune system strong. If you get car or air sick or need help sleeping on the plane Gravol may be useful. Travel Items A neck cushion and or back pad (for those with bad backs) for the plane and vehicle drives. Small snacks like granola bars, gum, chocolate bars, biscuits for your personal enjoyment. Travel Documents Passport – and an additional photocopy of your passport which should be placed in a separate location than your passport (luggage or carry-on). Please note: the Mission Coordinator will register all members of our team with the Canadian Government (Canadians Abroad, www.voyage.com). Money Money belt or neck holder is ideal for carrying larger amounts of funds and can be kept under your t-shirt. You will want some cash for incidentals/ personal items (max recommended $300 USD). $1 USD ≈ 6 BOB. Important to note: Bring US Dollars (USD), not Canadian. Make sure each bill is in good condition and no older than the year 2000. You will be able to make exchange from USD to BOB (Bolivian Bolivianos) upon arrival. It is possible to withdraw funds directly through the ATM (Bank Machine), but keep in mind that ATMs will not be easily accessible, and those we find may be out of service. Often only CREDIT cards (not debit) will work. It is best to check with your bank prior to departure. Be sure to inform your bank and credit card company that you will be traveling overseas, as they may block your access to cash. Protection Hat Sun glasses Sunscreen Lip-balm Mosquito repellant Footwear Comfortable closed-toed walking shoes or sneakers & socks Walking sandals Flip flops (always wear flip flops when bathing) 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia Hygiene Hand sanitizer Baby wipes Facecloth and hand towel (bath towels will be provided) Antiperspirant / deodorant, handkerchiefs / bandanas Tissues to use in the restroom while we are on the road (toilet paper is not always available) ALWAYS WASH YOUR HANDS – especially before and after eating. Your body will be introduced to bacteria that it has never before encountered. Not all are hazardous but they are still likely to upset your digestive system. Expect to sweat more. Laundry Pillow case – to sleep on and, at the end of the trip, you can use it to hold your dirty laundry Laundry soap – in case you need to hand wash any items Photos & Viewing Camera – you may want to avoid taking a large bulky camera with multiple lenses; a simple point and shoot camera takes good photos and is much easier for daily transport (there is also less risk of losing it) Charger and/or extra batteries Electrical Electrical converters: In Bolivia the standard voltage is 230 Volts alternating at 50 cycles per second, aka a frequency of 50 Hertz. If you travel to Bolivia with a device that does not accept 230V at 50 Hz, you will need a voltage converter. The standard in Canada is 120V at 60 Hz, so it is likely that you will need a converter. To be sure, check the label on your appliances. If it states 'INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz', it can be used in all countries of the world (this is often the case with chargers for tablets/laptops, cameras, and mobile phones). Plug adaptors: Outlets in Bolivia generally accept one of two electrical socket types: Type A and Type C. You can see them pictured below. Because C is different than the Canadian outlet and we cannot guarantee if A will always be available during our stay, you will need a plug adapter. Type A Type C Communications Phone access: If you would like phone access and have an existing mobile phone provider, discuss your options with them first. If your existing plan is not appropriate, you can also bring a mobile phone that can accept a locally purchased SIM card (confirm with your mobile phone provider in advance as it may need to be “unlocked” for travel). Alternatively, let the Mission Coordinator know and we can arrange to have a phone purchased for you in advance. Then you can purchase a SIM card and phone credit when you arrive on site. Internet access: There will be limited shared access to a laptop with internet capability throughout the mission. However, keep in mind that internet access may be very unreliable. Please make no promises to family/friends about your ability to access internet. You may want to inquire with your mobile phone provider to see if there is a package with internet available during international travel (this tends to be more reliable). If you plan to travel with your own laptop/iPad/etc., you can talk to the Mission Coordinator about purchasing a mobile internet stick for personal use. Keep in mind that these are pricey and, again, internet access may be unreliable. Please note that you are fully responsible and liable for the loss, theft and or damage of your own property. 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia Time Small alarm clock or a watch with an alarm A kind and gentle but important reminder: if you are someone who is often late for meetings and appointments, please be prepared to change that habit while on this trip. All group members move together! Luggage Carry-on with a clean t-shirt, underwear and socks as well as a few personal hygiene items to freshen up mid-flight (or for use should your luggage be delayed). Pack any essential items (especially prescriptions) in your carry-on in case luggage is delayed. Small day pack – fanny pack or backpack for day trips during the mission Check with your airline to ensure your luggage does not exceed the allowances. Please consider: although wheel luggage is helpful at the airport, cargo bags or large backpacks are easier to pack in vehicles. Personal Reflection Notebook and pens for journaling Music, reading material, crosswords / games for personal time and reflection Souvenirs & Gifts to Share Pictures of family, friends, church, schools, etc. in a small photo album – great to share with new friends (especially sponsored children!) Special interest items to share with new friends and hosts, for example: Canadian items like pins, small flags, baseball caps, pens, t-shirts, maple syrup; balloons and small bouncy balls are also a big hit with kids A list of items and people for whom you hope to find gifts Donated items You may wish to bring with you donated items from friends, family, your church, sports group or other community group. Remember that you are limited to the amount of luggage you can travel with. Typically one bag is for personal items and the second is for donations. Suggestions of items needed at the Sponsor Site are shared on page 4 (“Second Suitcase”). Clothing – keep the following in mind: • Typically the month of March in Cochabamba, Bolivia is characterized by: − Daily highs around 25°C and daily lows around 12°C. − There is generally 12 hours and 15 minutes of daylight. − The norm is for it to be partly cloudy (cloud cover ranges from 56% to 72%). − The probability of precipitation ranges from 36-56% of days, with thunderstorms being the most frequent form. − The relative humidity typically ranges from 37% (comfortable) to 95% (very humid). • Natural fibres (cotton, linen, silk) are best for keeping you cool • Pyjamas: perhaps warmer than you would think (buildings are not as insulated as we are accustomed) • Bring a sweater and jacket for the evenings (it may be cooler than you expect!) • Socks are good for protecting your feet from mosquitoes in the evenings • Bring swimwear, should the opportunity arise • Bring clothes you can work in • Please be respectful in your choice of clothing (avoid tight clothing, short shorts, low-cut shirts, strappy tank tops) 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia DOCUMENT CHECKLIST FOR MISSION PARTICIPANTS Participants are required to complete, sign and submit the following documents by the dates outlined below. Mail to: Joanne Albrecht, MTC, Chalice, 1-445 Sackville Dr, Lower Sackville NS, B4C 2S1 Submission Date Document Jan 19 □ Signed Overseas Volunteer Personal Information Form (application form) □ Copy of valid Passport (valid for 6 months after entry into Bolivia) □ Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search Jan 26 □ Flight itinerary (if booking independently) □ Medical Insurance (if booking independently) Feb 4 □ Signed Informed Consent □ Signed Release of All Claims against Chalice □ Signed Photo Waiver □ Signed Medical Examination Form DATES TO REMEMBER Jan 19 Applications due, including $500 non-refundable mission trip programme fee (cheque or credit card) Jan 21 Final participants confirmed (applicants are confirmed throughout application period) Jan 26 Flight payment due to Merit Travel (& insurance, if applicable) Feb 4 Team Skype/telephone meeting 1, 8 p.m. Atlantic Time Submit signed Release of All Claims against Chalice, Photo Waiver, Informed Consent and Medical Examination Form Feb 16 Balance of mission payment due to Chalice Feb 18 Team Skype/telephone meeting 2, 8 p.m. Atlantic Time Mar 4 Team Skype/telephone meeting 3, 8 p.m. Atlantic Time Mar 15 Departure from Toronto (or alternate routing) to Santa Cruz Mar 23 Arrival in Toronto, if omitting touring Mar 26 Arrival in Toronto, if touring included 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Post me on your fridge! Solidarity Tour to Bolivia INFORMED CONSENT In travelling to the developing world, I understand that there are many inherent health, injury and security risks. These include but are not limited to: risk of death or injury from violence, civil unrest, abduction, natural disasters; and risk of sickness or disease from parasites and infection with associated risk of long-term illness or death. I am undertaking this Chalice Mission Trip acknowledging these and other dangers. In order to mitigate some of these risks, I verify that I have: (Please check all the apply) □ Purchased Travel Medical Insurance with worldwide coverage □ Taken the appropriate vaccinations/medications as prescribed to me by a health care professional □ Reviewed the information available to me on the Government of Canada travel website, in particular the information related to my destination country: http://travel.gc.ca/destinations/bolivia □ Reviewed the information available to me on the Public Health Agency of Canada travel website: http://www.phacaspc.gc.ca/tmp-pmv/index-eng.php, as well as the information particularly related to my destination country: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/tmp-pmv/countries-pays/country-pays-eng.php?id=349 I acknowledge that travelling to the developing world can be physically and mentally demanding. Considering this fact I declare that, to the best of my knowledge, I am fit to travel. I have also sought the guidance of a physician who has given his/her written confirmation of my fitness to travel. I acknowledge that it is my responsibility to inform Chalice of any changes in my state of health or any other information that may impact my ability to safely participate in this Mission Trip. While participating in the Mission Trip, I agree to follow the directions and instructions of Chalice staff and agents and to obey all laws of Canada and Bolivia. Signature: _____________________________________ Date: _________________ Print Name: _____________________________________ 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia CHALICE (CANADA) SOLIDARITY TOUR TO BOLIVIA 2015 RELEASE OF ALL CLAIMS AGAINST CHALICE I, ________________________________________ (name of participant), the undersigned, desire to participate in the mission journey to Bolivia, sponsored by Chalice (Canada) of Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia, a not-for-profit-corporation. The designation of this mission journey is SOLIDARITY TOUR TO BOLIVIA 2015 and the dates of travel are (approximately) from 15-23 March, 2015. I acknowledge that my participation in this mission journey is by my personal choice, and that it is entirely an optional activity. I understand that there may be unanticipated risks involved in any foreign journey and I assume those risks. And, for the consideration thereof, I , the undersigned, participating in this event, including ground and air transportation to and from various sites, do hereby, on behalf of myself, my heirs, executors, or assigned, release, acquit and discharge ‘Chalice (Canada)’, its directors, officers, employees, servants and agents, of and from any and all claims or demands for damages, loss, disease, injuries, costs, expenses, ransom, compensation, attorney’s fees, action, causes of action, duties, debts, responsibilities, liabilities in law or in equity, irrespective of their origin, relating to or arising from the undersigned’s participation in this activity. And, further for the consideration aforesaid, I, the undersigned, agree to indemnify ‘Chalice (Canada)’, its directors officers, employees, servants and agents, their successors and assigns, and to save each of them forever harmless against any and all claims, causes of action, expense, including reasonable attorney’s fees, which may at a future date be brought against ‘Chalice (Canada)’ by any person claiming to be a representative of the undersigned on or acting on their behalf. And for the consideration aforesaid, I, the undersigned, agree that the said agreement set forth herein is deemed to be no admission whatsoever of liability on the part of settling party. I, the undersigned, state that I have attained the age of 19 years, that I am in good physical condition and that I have read and understand the foregoing statement. (If the participant is less than 19 years old, a parent or legal guardian must sign in addition to the participant, acknowledging and accepting the foregoing.) Dated: ________________________________________ Print name of volunteer/releasor: ________________________________________ Signature: ________________________________________ Print name of parent/guardian of volunteer/releasor: ________________________________________ Signature: ________________________________________ 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia PHOTOGRAPH WAIVER and RELEASE FORM I give Chalice exclusive permission to publish, exhibit, or reproduce in print, electronic or video format the likeness or image of myself described or depicted herein. I release all claims against Chalice with respect to publication and copyright ownership, including any claim for compensation related to use of the materials. I, on my own behalf and/or on behalf of my child/ward: Give my permission as set out above OR DO NOT give my permission as set out above Name of Photo Subject: ______________________________ Name of Photo Subject’s Guardian: (if under the age of majority) ______________________________ Signature of Photo Subject or Guardian: ______________________________ Phone: ______________________________ Email: ______________________________ Address: ______________________________ ______________________________ Date: ______________________________ 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia Chalice Mission Trip MEDICAL EXAMINATION FORM IMPORTANT to Note: This form is to be filled out no more than 1 month prior to travel. It is the responsibility of the volunteer to inform Chalice of any changes in his/her state of health or any other information that may impact his/her ability to safely participate in the Mission Trip. A) To be filled by the Mission Trip Volunteer: First and Middle Name(s) Last Name Date of Birth (mm/dd/yy) Country and Place of Assignment Expected Departure Date Expected Return Date Particular conditions linked to the country of assignment: Humid Desert Region Polluted Region (please check the conditions which apply In altitude to your assignment and add further Other conditions: description if necessary) Hot Region Dusty Region Isolated Region B) To be filled by the Physician: Physician’s Name: Address: Telephone: Practice number: Observations: Confirmation: (Please check one) This is to certify that I have examined the person whose name appears in Section A and this person is [ FIT ; NOT-FIT ____________________________ Signature of Physician ] to work in the country of assignment mentioned in Section A. _________________________ Date of Assessment 1-800-776-6855 | joannealbrecht@chalice.ca | www.chalice.ca Solidarity Tour to Bolivia Solidarity Tour to Bolivia 2015 OVERSEAS VOLUNTEER PERSONAL INFORMATION FORM Check Check $500 Mission Programme Fee enclosed: Copy of Passport enclosed: FIRST NAME BIRTHDATE SEX: F / M MM / DD / YY PASSPORT # MIDDLE NAME CITIZENSHIP LAST NAME Please provide your full name and personal information as it is presented within your passport CONTACT INFORMATION Contact Numbers: Address: Home (if applicable) Province Postal Code Work Parish Name, Location: (if applicable) Mobile Skype ID E-mail Address: (If you have one) EMERGENCY CONTACTS Please identify two persons you wish to be contacted in case of an emergency Full Name Relationship Phone #1 Home / Work / Mobile 1 Phone #2 Home / Work / Mobile Please Circle E-mail Address Relationship Full Name Phone #1 Home / Work / Mobile 2 Phone #2 Home / Work / Mobile Please Circle E-mail Address MEDICAL CONTACT Please identify your physician and how we can contact him/her in the event of a medical emergency Physician* Facility Phone # Emergency # Fax # Address *One month prior to travel we will require a completed Medical Examination Form from your physician. Overseas Volunteer Personal Information Form *Confidential* Page 1/3 MEDICAL INFORMATION Please be detailed; this information will be used for your safety. Use back of page if needed. Blood Type Medical Conditions Allergies Dietary Needs Other Needs Missions can be physically and mentally demanding. Considering this fact: (1) Are you fit to travel? (yes/no) (2) Is there any additional information that Chalice should be made aware of? TRAVEL INFORMATION Do you have personal travel insurance? Emergency medical with worldwide coverage (yes/no) MANDATORY Trip cancellation and interruption (yes/no) STRONGLY recommended If you have insurance , please provide a copy of your insurance coverage and indicate here: Name of Insurance Provider Type of Insurance Provided Policy Number Out-of-Country Emergency Contact Number If you need insurance , please indicate which you would like to purchase through Merit Travel (check one): Medical & Cancellation Medical only Cancellation only Flight Information Which city will you be departing from? Do you plan to book your flights independently (not with Chalice)? (yes/no) If yes, it is your responsibility to confirm with MTC before purchase of tickets. Frequent Flyer Program (state Program & ID) Please provide details on any travel needs you have: Boarding Assistance Travel Concerns Optional Touring _____ I will join the tour OR _____ I will not join the tour Please Check: Touring add-on is offered through an independent travel agency and will not be led by Chalice Staff. Shirt Size Group Available: Men's S - 5XL, Women's XS - 3XL Please list the other members of your party: Name Overseas Volunteer Personal Information Form *Confidential* Relationship Page 2/3 BACKGROUND Occupation: Please provide a brief summary of your work background, skills and/or hobbies. In addition you may attach your résumé (optional). If you have any particular ideas for service, please mention them here. Personal Goals and Objectives: please describe what you hope to learn, experience and/or achieve during this mission. Have you previously travelled outside of North America? If yes, please provide relevant details: Have you attached the results of your Criminal Record Check? (yes/no) Are the results of a Vulnerable Sector Search included? (yes/no) If no, please confirm the DATE on which you applied for it: (you need to begin this process before submitting your application) IMPORTANT: Please see details in Mission FAQs to ensure you are submitting the results of the appropriate Check. REFERENCES Full Name 1 Relationship Phone #1 Home / Work / Mobile Phone #2 Home / Work / Mobile E-mail Full Name Relationship Phone #1 Home / Work / Mobile Phone #2 Home / Work / Mobile 2 E-mail Additional Comments and/or Concerns can be written on the back of this page. Signature Please sign form & submit to: Date Joanne Albrecht, MTC, Chalice 1-445 Sackville Dr, Lower Sackville NS, B4C 2S1 joannealbrecht@chalice.ca If you are submitting your application by mail, please email or call to let us know. Overseas Volunteer Personal Information Form *Confidential* Page 3/3 Chalice MISSION TRIP Programme Fee Supporter ID _____________ To pay your Mission Trip Programme Fee by CREDIT CARD please complete this form. Are you currently a Chalice supporter? For office use NON-RECEIPTABLE PAYMENT TOWARDS MT-BOL2015 No Yes, Supporter ID: _____________________ PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY Name: First Middle Initial Last Address: City Prov. D.O.B. _____/_____/_____ (mm/dd/yy) Phone: ( ) Postal Code E-mail Address: Credit Card Authorization I hereby authorize Chalice to debit my Credit Card in the amount of $500 one time only. Credit Card # _ Expiry Date: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ VISA MasterCard Amex __/__ Month Year Please Check: This payment is made on behalf of: an individual, or a business. I have certain recourse rights if any debit does not comply with this agreement. For example, I have the right to receive reimbursement for any debit that is not authorized or is not consistent with this Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD) Agreement. To obtain more information on my recourse rights I may contact my financial institution or visit www.cdnpay.ca. I may revoke my authorization at any time, subject to providing notice of 30 days. To obtain a sample cancellation form, or for more information on my right to cancel a PAD Agreement, I may contact my financial institution or visit www.cdnpay.ca. Signature Send to: Mission Trip Coordinator Chalice 445 Sackville Dr., Suite 1 Lower Sackville, N.S. B4C 2S1 Canada Date 1-800-776-6855 (toll free) 1-902-252-3644 (fax) donorrelations@chalice.ca www.chalice.ca 2014-12
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