gáveais also experiencing an upturn in fortunes, with rocinha leading among the most improved of communities.

This new wave of hope has been attributed to a number of factors by experts - the $4.5 billion investment spanning the last 20 years focused on urbanization is starting to bear fruit, the emergence of Brazil's middle class is also making a huge difference, and policies implemented by the government designed to redistribute income and increase employment are all making progress.

this said,  social problems are still present in the city, Despite the government striving to improve the lives of cariocas and Brazilians in general.

the vitality and optimistic attitude of the communities  are being credited with what is regarded as a slow but steady social and economic recovery.

and so, as Rio de Janeiro's favelas are heading in the right direction, There is still work to be done - and the help of volunteer could help speed up the process.