Help CenterWhat is the AMIGOS Technology Policy?
AMIGOS has a zero-tech policy to help volunteers fully immerse themselves in their surroundings and build meaningful relationships.
Volunteers are not permitted to bring Wi-Fi enabled devices to the program, except for a cell phone* to be used only during approved travel days. This includes laptops, iPods, iPads, apple/smart watches, tablets, kindles, and any other electronic device.
If it can connect to the internet, please leave it at home. We will allow and encourage volunteers to use their personal cell phones during days of arrival and departure from the program for travel purposes only. All other devices are NOT permitted.
Volunteers who chose to bring their personal cell phones or other Wi-Fi enabled devices (smart watches, etc.) will be required to turn in their devices once they have arrived to the project.
Learn more about AMIGOS Technology Policy here: AMIGOS-Technology-Policy.pdf (amigosinternational.org)
Will I hear from my volunteer while they are on AMIGOS?
Volunteers on 2- or 3-week programs will not have access to their phone for the duration of the program. Parents should expect no communication directly from their child.
Volunteers on 4- or 6-week programs will have the opportunity to call home midway through the program. Therefore, parents may expect one brief phone call. Not all volunteers choose to call home at this time, so AMIGOS cannot guarantee this communication.
How will I know that my volunteer is okay if I have not heard from them?
The AMIGOS On-Call team keeps close tabs on the safety and well-being of all volunteers. If there are concerns for a volunteer's well-being or they experience a serious medical, mental health, or safety-related incident, On-Call will notify the parents directly.
Can a volunteer get an exemption from the technology policy?
In order to create an equitable experience for all volunteers, AMIGOS does not allow exemptions to the technology policy. If you have specific questions or concerns, please reach out to healthandsafety@amigosinternational.org.