Neuquén, AFS Argentina & Uruguay: 2024 Community Impact Award

Active for 28 years

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Nestled in the heart of Patagonia, the Neuquén Chapter has been a beacon of intercultural learning and volunteerism for nearly 30 years. With roots tracing back to the 1980s, it has grown into one of the top five chapters in AFS Argentina and Uruguay. Recognized twice as AFS Argentina & Uruguay Chapter of the Year, Neuquén consistently excels in hosting, sending, volunteer development, marketing, and school relations.

This chapter thrives on the synergy between its seasoned volunteers, some with over 20 years of experience, and its newer members, whose fresh perspectives bring renewed energy. Together, they create a culture of open dialogue and proactive leadership. During the pandemic, Neuquén’s unwavering commitment to sending participants kept the AFS mission alive, inspiring other chapters to adapt and persevere.

AFS Neuquén is deeply integrated into its community, spanning over 400 kilometers of the Patagonia region. The chapter works with more than 60 schools, delivering workshops on intercultural learning, diversity, and participant orientations. AFS in Neuquén also fosters strong partnerships with regional universities, such as the University of Comahue, UFLO, and Universidad Siglo 21. Collaborating closely with the Secretary of International Mobility, this AFS chapter is working with Universities to provide orientations for future international students, enhancing their readiness for global engagement.

Moreover, AFS Neuquén has cultivated meaningful relationships with local and provincial governments, collaborating to promote intercultural understanding. The Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Education work hand-in-hand with AFS to further this mission. In 2024, AFS Neuquén conducted workshops for city officials, training approximately 25 participants in cultural sensitivity, thereby enriching the capacity of public servants to engage with diverse communities.

Neuquén’s impact extends to AFS Argentina and Uruguay’s broader goals. Over the last decade, the chapter sent over 170 participants abroad and hosted more than 140, maintaining consistent rates that reflect operational excellence. In 2023 alone, Neuquén accounted for over 10% of the organization’s number of exchange students going abroad.

Its volunteers play a vital role in participant support, ensuring each individual has a dedicated contact and access to comprehensive orientations. By actively contributing to national forums and training sessions, Neuquén’s volunteers bring innovative solutions to organizational challenges, fostering best practices across AFS ARG URU.

Through strong community partnerships, dedicated volunteerism, and a steadfast commitment to AFS’s mission, the Neuquén Chapter stands as a model of excellence and an inspiration to the entire AFS network.