Attention! The Application window for the Cook Islands Project (October 16-26) HAS BEEN EXTENDED to Sept. 4th! See below for details!

ISLA/Lifeguards without Borders project and adventure to Avarua, Rarotonga Island, Cook Islands!

Get ready for an incredible adventure and life-saving journey to beautiful Avarua, Rarotonga in the Cook Islands! The objective of the mission is three parts: the raise awareness for water safety initiatives on the island and for the people of Rarotonga; support the lifeguard employees of a new open-water Waterpark called Rongohiva; as well as supplement water safety initiatives of the Cook Island Canoe Association (CICA) before “Vaka Eiva” the annual outrigger canoe race in November.

The project’s course will be conducted during the week of October 16-26th, and will include course participants that include island citizens, members of CICA, and lifeguards of Rongahiva. The long term goal is to create a biennial (every two years) training course in the region to continuously certify Rarotongan Ocean Rescuers, supply further lifesaving equipment in the region, and create a strong relationship for future exchanges and lifeguard projects throughout the entire region!

The application process for this adventure is competitive, and priority will be given to those that turn in the application early… so don’t delay!!

Tentative Project Itinerary

Sunday, October 16th: Arrive in Avarua, Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Oct 16- 18: Meet the team and get situated on the island.

Oct 19: Prep day for the training course.

Oct 20-22: Conduct ISLA Open Water 3 day training course in Avarua, Rarotonga.*

Oct. 23-26th: Tour the island of Rarotonga including beaches and areas, this will include snorkeling, diving, boating, and exploring the jungles of the island. This will be a great time to see much of the island, as well as bond with our team mates and meet many locals. Details are still being worked on but will be confirmed before the closing dates of applications.

*Project dates are pending and will be confirmed prior to the close of the application process.

Pre-Project Schedule (NEW UPDATE)

Sunday, September 4th 2016:  Applications Close at 11:59pm PST!*

September 5th 2016: Selected Volunteers Notified.

September 9th, 2016: $100 non-refundable deposit and airfare purchase due.

September 25th 2016: $750 non-refundable project donation due.

*Applicants who apply early are giving preference.

COSTS:
ISLA Donation: US$850 (Click here to see how this donation funds the project).
Visa: No visa is required for Australian, EU, British, Canadian and US citizens. Please consult your embassy for further information.
Airfare to Rarotonga Island (RAR) International Airport: (from Los Angeles, CA (LAX) this ranges from $900 to $1100).

INCLUDED IN THE PROJECT COOK ISLAND DONATION:

• Transportation to and from the airport and during the extent of the trip
• Lodging during for the extent of the trip (Oct. 16-26)
• 1 Year ISLA Membership and ISLA Membership Kit
• Meals during Volunteer training portions (approximately ½ the trip)
• International travelers insurance for the duration of the project
• ISLA Uniform
• Equipment Donation