myCESO Login:

Frequently Asked Questions

 

1) What does CESO pay for?

International Assignments
When assignments are part of a funded program, CESO will pay for the following items:
  • Flight costs to/from the country of assignment
  • Entry visa costs
  • Health and Accident Insurance
  • Medical clearance/ vaccinations
If, in special circumstances, clients demonstrate financial need, CESO will consider providing a subsidy for the following items:
  • In-country travel related to the assignment (not including personal travel)
  • Accommodation
  • Food
  • Stipend of 10 Canadian dollars a day

National Assignments
Assignment cost re-imbursements are currently based on Treasury Board rates and allowances which allow CESO to pay for the following items:

  • Flight costs to/from the assignment
  • Incidental costs of $10.00 each overnight stay
  • Accommodation
  • Food
  • Travel and accident insurance

2) Can I take my spouse/partner with me on assignment?

Yes, with the permission of CESO and the client, at the spouses own expense. Our funding only covers the expenses of the volunteer, not the spouse or partner.

3) What are the lengths of the assignments?

International assignments typically last from two weeks to three months. National assignments typically last from two days to two weeks. National mentorships are extended assignments with repeated visits or telephone contact. From time to time, longer assignments (e.g. 6 months to 1 year) occur.

4) Who manages travel arrangements?

CESO coordinates travel from Canada to the assignment country and the return trip. National assignments are coordinated through a travel agency, the volunteer and the regional manager.

5) Who do I contact if there are any problems?

Overseas, CESO’s Country Representatives. In Canada, the program manager. 

6) What am I expected to do pre-, during and post-assignment?

Before going on assignment, you will usually contact the client to begin determining their problems, needs and their expectations of you. It’s helpful to research the area that you will be staying for cultural norms, different beliefs, values, laws and behaviours. Regarding International assignments, study any briefing documents that CESO sends you.
 
During the assignment, you will work with the client to transfer knowledge and provide recommendations for areas of improvement based on the client’s needs. This could include leaving written material with the client.
 
After the assignment, it is your responsibility to complete an evaluation questionnaire, in addition to submitting an expense claim. Failure to do so will suspend your status in the volunteer database.

7) Are there any fees relating to being a volunteer? 

Upon becoming a volunteer, you wil be asked to pay the Volunteer Opportunity Fee. This fee helps subsidize costs that are associated with providing services related to your overall volunteer experience. These costs include resource database management, volunteer communications and internal website maintenance. The fee is $100 is not tax deductible and non-refundable.