Brazil

Famous for its carnivals rhythm and football Brazil is an experience in every sense of the world.  The country boasts the world’s largest rainforest, a stunning coastline, and with a splattering of idyllic islands, you are spoilt for things to do. Even the most travelled individual can’t fail to be impressed by the kaleidoscope of colour that is Rio de Janeiro, an incomparable capital that boasts many cultural gems. With its bustling beaches and natural harbour it truly deserves the accolade of being one of the natural wonders of the world. Christ the Redeemer keeps a constant eye over all and though impressive, Sugar Loaf Mountain offers no hiding place from his ever watchful eyes. 

Casa Lar in Mangueira, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Quest have been working with the Brazilian Mangueira foundation since 2003; volunteers live and work in Casa Lar, a home for young boys with differing levels of physical and mental disability. Teams have been involved in the day to day care for the boys, supporting them to live as independent a life as possible. They have also funded and created a sensory room for the boys and donated clothes, medicines, beds and cooking equipment.

Due to the extremely low staff numbers there the boys are rarely taken outside of their accommodation. Volunteers have been giving the boys a much improved quality of life by organising day or weekend excursions to the zoo, the swimming pool and the beach, as well as helping the children to attend and be involved the Rio Carnival.