Program Details
| Program Length | Start | End | Gateway | Age on Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18+ Community Service | Mid-February | Early August | New York | 18-26 |
Age Explanation: Age on Departure reflect both the years and month(s) of the age of the applicant at the start of the program. For example, if the age is listed as 16.1 the applicant should be 16 years and 1 month at departure. For a more detailed look at age ranges see Programs-at-a-Glance.
Belgium Flanders Details
Belgium Flanders mixes a rich history with a contemporary culture that has influences from the French, Dutch, Austrians, and Spanish. You’ll walk through medieval town squares and streets in the midst of a thoroughly modern country. Belgium’s cuisine reflects its varied people and history, boasting one of the best experiences imaginable for your palate (and don’t forget about the chocolate). Belgium consists of three regions: Flanders in the north, where most people speak Dutch; Wallonia in the south, where most speak French; and Brussels, the bilingual capital located in the center of the country.
Belgium (Flemish) 18+ Community Service Semester Program
Upon arrival, AFS will take you to a four-day orientation that explores life in Belgium, its history, its public transportation systems, and the community service program itself. Then you will arrive in your new community, meet your host family, and begin your community service project, which might include working with children, the elderly, the physically challenged, or recent immigrants. Other possible projects focus on environmental issues, education, arts, music, or theater. Before you arrive, you’ll receive a CD-ROM with an exercise book to help you study Dutch, and the first two months in Belgium you’ll receive follow-up sessions. AFS will organize various activities, that may include cultural trips, barbecues, short domestic trips, and excursions outside Belgium. Some of these are optional at additional cost. View PDF Brochure for Belgium Flanders 18+ Program.
