|
Volunteer Options 2007
We would like to thank you for your
generosity in offering your voluntary services.
Ecuador is a developing country with limited resources are
limited for certain sectors of the population, Things are not
always as we would like them to be, and it is precisely for this
reason that our work is so important, in trying to create a web
of support for those that need it in different fields such as
education, medicine, ecology, social work and affection, which
often is most important of all.
We are sure that you will get an immense satisfaction from
working as a volunteer and you will realize that there are
people in the world that need you, or someone to help them
without looking for anything in return. This is the reward of
the true volunteer.
For our program, we have selected some non-profit institutions
that have recently opened their doors to receive volunteers.
Each one of them has their own sets of rules and norms that you
should follow responsibly.
PREREQUISITES FOR VOLUNTEERING
• Have at least a lower intermediate ability level of spoken
Spanish
• Turn in a personal résumé
• Be willing to work at least four hours a day as a volunteer
• Have an appropriate disposition for the demands of the project
• Have initiative and motivation in order to complete the
assigned work
• Fill out the volunteer evaluation form after completing your
time as a volunteer
• Attend the orientation for your specific volunteer position
Many thanks for your generosity and good luck! |
 |
SOCIAL
PROJECTS IN ECUADOR
PROJECT:
GUARDERIA - CARCEL DE MUJERES / CHILDCARE CENTER FOR INCARCERATED WOMEN
General Location:
Northeast section of Quito
Purpose of the Project:
To help children that live in the prison by providing a dignified place
that assures that they receive daily meals and the care and affection
that they need, as well as a place of learning and socialization during
the day.
History and Description of the Project:
The situation in the prisons of Ecuador is summarily precarious.
Throughout all of the prisons in the country, more than 695 children
live without families to take care of them while their mothers serve
their prison sentences. It is a very sad social truth.
In the Women´s Prison in Quito live 271
children, 25 of which receive no level of education, 53 of which go to
the prison during their vacation but live with other family members, and
48 of which are in the Prison´s daycare center. The rest are involved in
other social programs.
In the Prison center there are 3 areas where the majority of the
children are concentrated. One of the principal problems is having
enough food for all of the children. There are only enough portions of
food for the prisoners, who often go without eating in order to feed
their children.
The children may only stay in the center until they are 11 years old for
boys, or 13 for girls.
During the day the children can stay in the daycare center where they
are given food rations and are cared for, besides also having
educational activities as often as possible. At night the children
return to their mothers in the jail.
Daily Tasks of the Volunteer:
The schedule for volunteers is from 8:00am to 13:00pm, during which time
they will help in the caring for, and recreation of, the children.
Giving them love and understanding as well as educating them as much as
possible are the principal tasks of the volunteer.
Additional Information:
Occasionally, the prison workers protest against the government
authorities and in order to be heard they impede the entrance of
visitors to the prison. Given that the daycare functions inside the
prison center, the protests will affect the student volunteer as they
will not be able to enter while the prison is paralyzed.
Lodging:
Student Residence at the Academia Latinoamericana.
Transportation:
To reach the project site from the Academia requires about 25 minutes
via public bus.
Clothing and Accessories:
Comfortable clothing such as jeans, a tee shirt and sweatshirt. The
climate in Quito is extremely variable. There are warm days with
temperatures up to 25 degrees C, and days that can be as cool as 13
degrees C, as well as occasional rain. Therefore be prepared for all
kinds of weather.
List of Optional Donations:
Clothing for newborns, babies, and children up to 10 years old. Diapers,
educational materials, vitamins for children.
Suggestions:
Bring a little snack to work since the food that exists in the prison is
barely enough to feed the children.
PROJECT CENTRO PARA
NIÑOS DE LA CALLE / CENTER FOR STREET CHILDREN
General Location:
Historic Center of Quito
Purpose of the Project:
The strategic objective of the project is to develop awareness and
educate the public to benefit children, adolescents and teenagers of the
street, as well as to develop programs that teach young people skills
and augment their capacity to work and their self-esteem, enforce their
personal identity and prevent them from homelessness, drug use or
delinquent behavior.
At the same time, the project tries to ensure that the work done by the
children, youth or teenagers does not keep them from their studies,
being a program that favors access to and regular attendance in school,
and involving in this task the teachers, family, and the children
themselves.
History and Description of the Project:
The problematic situation of the street children of Quito was felt, and
the cause taken up by a group of priests in 1977, which opened a home
called “El Galpón” where besides a place to sleep, they offered the
children food, education, recreation, medical attention and religion.
With the passing of time the program was consolidated to a primary
school and finally a secondary school.
Many help centers have opened for needy children since then, one of
which is this very center, Children of the Street.
It is a small space in which one finds large work tables around which
children are seated to do their schoolwork. Also there is a small
kitchen and a space for recreation for he children, including a TV room.
The children and youth that come to the center are between the ages of 7
and 18, and are mainly boys.
Daily Tasks of Volunteers:
The volunteer can choose the shift that best meets their needs, being
either from 9:00am to 12:30 am or in the afternoon from 2:30pm to 6:00
pm, since there are 2 different groups of children that come in the
morning or in the afternoon. The job consists of providing support for
the children, as much psychologically, through offering them affection
and compassion, as academically, helping them with their schoolwork in
math, english, science, etc.
Additional Information:
It is not necessary to be an educational specialist, the children have
easy homework with which everyone can surely help them.
Lodging:
Student Residence at the Academia Latinoamericana.
Transportation:
To arrive at the project site from the Student Residence requires about
35 minutes via public bus.
Clothing and Accessories:
Comfortable clothing such as jeans, a tee shirt and sweatshirt. The
climate in Quito is extremely variable. There are warm days with
temperatures up to 25 degrees C, and days that can be as cool as 13
degrees C, as well as occasional rain. Therefore be prepared for all
kinds of weather.
List of Optional Donations:
Educational materials for teaching children such as geographic maps,
books, crayons, markers, notebooks, clothing.
Suggestions:
In this volunteer project there is a lot of room for improvement! You
should be very creative and patient.
PROJECT: ESTANCIA
PARA NIÑOS DE ESCASOS RECURSOS / AFTER SCHOOL CENTER FOR UNDERPRIVILEGED
YOUTH
General Location:
North-west Quito
Purpose of the Project:
Dedicate a physical space for children who don not have a home, or do
not have a place to do their schoolwork while their parents work. A
place where they receive understanding, affection and scholastic
reinforcement in order to better the quality of life of these children,
who have few other resources.
History and Description of the Project:
Due to the necessity of a support network for these children in the
nearby community of the San José Worker Parrish, a group of catholic
priests began the project in a vacant lot in the neighborhood.
Little by little, thanks to the different voluntary donations, as much
national as international, the project now boasts a comfortable physical
space, consisting of a house with two floors, a small patio for
recreation and a kitchen where lunch is prepared and offered to the
children and youth.
Children up to 11 years old are on the bottom floor and children from 11
to 18 years old are on the top floor.
The project also offers a public library and a school room.
Daily Tasks Volunteers:
The volunteer can choose between the morning shift from 9:00am to
12:30pm or the afternoon shift from 2:00pm to 5:00pm.
The activities with the children or youth (you can choose one of these
groups) are lead by the coordinator of the program who is in charge of
the care and well-being of everyone.
The volunteers help with the teaching of basic materials, such as math,
history, Spanish, English and sports.
Additional Information:
The project also offers meals for the children.
Lodging:
Student Residence at the Academia Latinoamericana.
Transportation:
To arrive at the program site from the Academia requires approximately
35 minutes via public bus.
Clothing and Accessories:
Comfortable clothing such as jeans, a tee shirt and sweatshirt. The
climate in Quito is extremely variable. There are warm days with
temperatures up to 25 degrees C, and days that can be as cool as 13
degrees C, as well as occasional rain. Therefore be prepared for all
kinds of weather.
List of Optional Donations:
Educational materials for children such as geographic maps, books,
crayons, markers, notebooks, clothing.
Suggestions:
In general, there are quite a lot of children and youth at the site,
therefore the active participation of the volunteer is very important in
order to best channel energies into the activities and to meet the
established objectives.
PROJECT: NIÑOS CON
SÍNDROME DE DOWN / AIDE TO CHILDREN WITH DOWN SÍNDROME
General Location:
Northern Quito
Purpose of the Project:
The work is based in providing a unit of support for the development of,
integration of and information about people with incapacities and there
environment.
The project centers its activities on those that have Down Syndrome,
including infants, children and adults.
History and Description of the Project:
The “Queen of Quito” foundation is a non-government organization of
social development created to work with and for unprotected people. In
conjunction with the “Grupo Taller Integral” Foundation and the “Logros”
Foundation, they are developing a systematic support program for the
integration and development of incapacitated persons.
Different areas are attended to, such as scholarship, socialization,
family relations and insertion into the work force. Additionally, other
external incapacities are welcome.
In order to facilitate the integration process and achieve adequate
coverage of the various areas of attention, the project has been divided
in the following manner:
Therapeutic Division
Consultory Division
Capacitating Division
Those that are benefited by the Support Project are incapacitated
persons, their families and their environment, giving priority to those
of fewer resources.
Daily Tasks Volunteers:
Depending on the professional capacity and the skills of the volunteer,
services can be coordinated in morning or afternoon shifts in different
areas, such as:
Psychological-educational services, early attention, language therapy,
physical therapy, computerized systems of teaching, scholastic
reinforcement, sexual orientation, health programs, recreational
activities and sports.
For example, involving Physical Therapy: In the morning the children are
divided into groups according to their mental capacity and the
volunteers help them to develop their motor skills, as well as help them
to learn to write and draw. In the afternoons, the children receive
individual therapy which is concentrated especially in their physical
development.
Additional Information:
The project is also concerned for the families, which are in “Support
Projects” with programs such as:
Self-help groups, workshops, conferences, classes for parents,
grandparents, siblings, etc., psychological orientation services, legal
orientation services, community service programs, information and
documentation center, awareness programs and campaigns, among others.
In order to volunteer in this program a minimum of 4 weeks dedication is
required. Volunteers don’t need to be physical therapists, the
Foundation will give you all the training you will need and will teach
you how to give the children therapy.
Lodging:
Student Residence at the Academia Latinoamericana.
Transportation:
To arrive at the Project site from the Academia requires approximately
35 minutes via public bus.
Clothing and Accessories:
Comfortable clothing such as jeans, a tee shirt and sweatshirt. The
climate in Quito is extremely variable. There are warm days with
temperatures up to 25 degrees C, and days that can be as cool as 13
degrees C, as well as occasional rain. Therefore be prepared for all
kinds of weather.
List of Optional Donations:
Educational materials for children such as geographic maps, books,
crayons,m markers, notebooks, clothing.
PROJECT: ORFANATO
HOGAR DE NIÑAS / GIRL´S ORPHANAGE
General Location:
Center of Quito
Purpose of the Project:
To be the spiritual, affectionate and educational support that the
abandoned girls need as a basic tool for their future as individuals
ready to function in society.
History and Description of the Project:
The project was started as a home for girls who had been abandoned or
lost their parents, where they could find a place to live and an
education.
Inside the center one finds both the residential area as well as the
school. With much work and thanks to the donations of businesses and
individuals that have collaborated together, the Girls’ Orphanage has
grown significantly, always providing better education and living
conditions.
Daily Tasks of the Volunteer:
Depending in the skills and knowledge of the volunteer, the work will be
coordinated in different areas such as education or recreation. A
specific job for volunteers does not exist, it is a position where
creativity is very important and above all, patience and love for the
orphaned girls.
Additional Information:
In this project the volunteer also has the opportunity to reinforce the
girls’ English language skills.
Lodging:
Student Residence at the Academia Latinoamericana.
Transportation:
To arrive at the site from the Academia requires about 50 minutes in
public bus.
Clothing and Accessories:
Comfortable clothing for working. The climate in Quito is extremely
variable. There are warm days with temperatures up to 25 degrees C, and
days that can be as cool as 13 degrees C, as well as occasional rain.
Therefore be prepared for all kinds of weather.
List of Optional Donations:
Educational materials for teaching English as well as general teaching
materials such as clay, markers, erasers, pencils, etc. It is also a
good idea to bring clothing or toys for small children.
PROJECT: ESCUELA
INDÍGENA /INGENUOS SCHOOL
General Location:
Outside of ths city of Quito, in a small town to the north.
Purpose of the Project:
To give psychological support, affection and attention to poor children
who are educated at this institution, who mainly do not live with their
parents, who have immigrated to other countries like Spain and Italy in
most cases.
History and Description of the Project:
The school is a multicultural academic school in which the children are
mostly between 5 and 13 years old.
The school is maintained thanks to the support of the parents or
guardians of the children, who with few resources are bringing to life a
great work.
Daily Tasks of the Volunteer:
The volunteer can offer their help as a social worker, and/or teaching
English as a second language, art or math, working daily from 7:30 am to
12:30 pm.
Additional Information:
This is an excellent project for volunteers interested in getting to
know the indigenous Ecuadorian culture.
Lodging:
Student Residence at the Academia Latinoamericana.
Transportation:
To arrive at the project from the Academia requires about 50 minutes via
public bus.
Clothing and Accessories:
Clothing appropriate for working in an educational institution, such as
long pants, no jeans, long-sleeved shirt. The climate in Quito is
extremely variable. There are warm days with temperatures up to 25
degrees C, and days that can be as cool as 13 degrees C, as well as
occasional rain. Therefore be prepared for all kinds of weather.
List of Optional Donations:
Educational materials for teaching English or math, or general materials
such as clay, markers, erasers, pencils, etc.
PROJECT: CENTRO DE
AYUDA A LA MUJER / WOMEN´S SUPPORT
General Location:
The project is located in the Historic Center of Quito.
Purpose of the Project:
One of the fundamental objectives of the Women’s Support Center is to
elevate the self-esteem of battered women and children, who are offered
support after leaving their abusive situations, so that during the
period of transition they are offered skills that will allow them to
provide for themselves in the future as well as psychological, medical
and legal assistance. This enables these women to successfully reinsert
themselves into society and do well for themselves.
History and Description of the Project:
Staffed by religious women in collaboration with a group of professional
Ecuadorian volunteers, the project women that have abandoned their homes
because they have been victims of psychological or physical abuse by
their husbands or other family members.
The women that arrive at the Support Center are mainly women with few
resources or money. Upon leaving their homes they have taken their
children with them, so that the support and help provided at the center
goes not only to the women but to their children as well.
The Women’s Support Center receives the women for a period of one or two
months, during which time they can receive medical, psychological and
legal help as well as training in various skills such as cooking,
sewing, baking, jewelry-making, etc. The objective of this training is
to give the women a tool that helps them get a job or start a small
business, independent of their spouse.
Daily Tasks of the Volunteer:
The volunteer, depending on their professional skills, their level of
Spanish and their preferences, can help the women in areas such as
literacy, computer skills, and English language training. Moreover, the
volunteer can help with workshops in sewing or bread-making which are
offered to benefit of the women of the center.
The volunteer will receive a complete orientation from the religious
women from the Women’s Support Center and with them will coordinate the
work to be done. All that is required is patience, creativity and a
desire to help!
Additional Information:
The children of the women that are receiving help are oriented so that
they can continue their studies and have their physical and emotional
needs met, through children’s recreational programs and academic and
psychological help.
Lodging:
Student Residence at the Academia.
Transportation:
From the Academia to the project site requires about 50 minutes via
public bus.
Clothing and Accessories:
Comfortable clothing such as jeans, a tee shirt and sweatshirt. The
climate in Quito is extremely variable. There are warm days with
temperatures up to 25 degrees C, and days that can be as cool as 13
degrees C, as well as occasional rain. Therefore be prepared for all
kinds of weather.
List of Optional Donations:
Scholastic materials, notebooks, pencils, clothing.
Suggestions:
This is a project in which the creativity and skills of the volunteers
can be applied to a high degree, since the women that arrive at the
center typically have no skills and need to learn a job skill that will
offer them some income in the future. Therefore, the volunteer can
always organize workshops offering new ideas or skills that could help
the women.
PROJECT: ESCUELA PARA
NIÑOS CAMPESINOS / SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN OF FARMERS
General Location:
A small rural town located about 20 minutes outside of Quito
Purpose of the Project:
The project cares for children from 2 months of age and up in the
following manners:
• Nurturing with integrity, love, respect and dedication
• Stimulating, for better physical, mental and emotional development
• Nutrition, with balanced and complete diets
• Mentoring, in order to become sensible and successful human beings of
integrity
• Providing, with the necessary tools to succeed in a professional
career
• Educating, with a constructive philosophy based in successful
teaching-learning methods
History and Description of the Project:
In 1988 it was decided to open an educational program that would improve
the future of the country. It began as an innovative project in the
educational field. The Foundation was legally signed into being with the
Ministry of Culture and Education in 1999 as a non-profit educational
institution.
Daily Tasks of the Volunteer:
The volunteers form an integral part in the development of the project
as they contribute with their diverse cultural backgrounds, as well as
their experiences and academic support.
Also the student needs to practice communicating in the language they
are learning, creating a real-world setting for multilingual exchange.
Additional Information:
The project understands that education implies much more than the
academic field exclusively. Making it distinct from other educational
institutions, this project covers important areas in overall development
such as:
• Trilingual education (English, Chinese and Spanish)
• Preventative and curative medicine
• Work integrated with the parents and the community
• 4 balanced and nutritional meals per day
• Teaching and constant monitoring of personal hygiene (bathing,
brushing teeth, cutting and cleaning fingernails)
• Attention to the emotional and physical needs of each child
Lodging:
The project includes lodging for the volunteers inside the institution.
Transportation:
Not required.
Clothing and Accessories:
Clothing appropriate for working in an educational institution, with
long pants, no jeans, long sleeve shirts. The climate in Quito is
extremely variable. There are warm days with temperatures up to 25
degrees C, and days that can be as cool as 13 degrees C, as well as
occasional rain. Therefore be prepared for all kinds of weather.
List of Optional Donations:
Educational materials for teaching English and general subjects, such as
clay, markers, erasers, pencils, etc. It is also great to bring clothing
or toys for babies.
PROJECT: HOGAR DE
ADULTOS ENFERMOS / LIVE-IN MEDICAL FACILITY
General Location:
Northern Quito
Purpose of the Project:
To care for people with incurable diseases or conditions in the most
caring, dignified way possible. The project can also benefit those of
few resources.
History and Description of the Project:
The Foundation has existed for about 25 years. It is a private
Foundation, started by religious persons in the community, and currently
receives some financial support from the government. There are
approximately 50 patients living in the facility. Patients live in the
facility full time and receive medical care, meals, constant nurse
attention and other benefits. Visitors are welcome and those patients
that can often go out with their families. Patients come form all over
the country. There are varying levels of ability among the patients,
some being fully capable and others having various conditions that
prevent them from caring for themselves.
Daily Tasks of the Volunteer:
The volunteer can serve in many different capacities, from helping in
the kitchen, to aiding the nurses in basic chores such as changing or
feeding less-capable patients, to visiting with patients and spending
time with them, chatting or playing cards.
Additional Information:
Volunteers are not permitted to perform specific Nurse tasks, such as
administering medication. A white lab coat is required.
Is required to send the curriculum vitae and a letter explaining the
reasons the volunteers decide to work here.
A with lab coat is necessary for working.
Lodging:
Student Residence at the Academia Latinoamericana.
Transportation:
To arrive at the project site from the Academia requires about 15 to 20
minutes walking along the park, or 5 minutes in public bus with 5
minutes of walking.
Clothing and Accessories:
Comfortable clothing that covers the legs and closed-toed shoes, for
working in the kitchen. The climate in Quito is extremely variable.
There are warm days with temperatures up to 25 degrees C, and days that
can be as cool as 13 degrees C, as well as occasional rain. Therefore be
prepared for all kinds of weather.
List of Optional Donations:
Any clothes for adults
PROJECT: HOSPITAL DE
NIÑOS / CHILDREN HOSPITAL
General Location:
Center of Quito
Purpose of the Project:
The purpose of the project is to support the mission of the Hospital
through obtaining resources to help poor children that come to the
hospital, who more often then not do not have the money necessary for
the medical attention they need.
History and Description of the Project:
The Health sector of Ecuador consists of diverse institutions, both
public and private, profit and non-profit.
The Ecuadorian constitution guarantees “free” health services for all
Ecuadorian citizens. People of fewer resources are usually those who
attend the public institutions. The huge quantity of patients seeking
services overreaches the capacity of the hospitals and health clinics,
bringing into question the quality of the services provided to the
patients. Many needs exist that for whatever reason, be it economic,
political or administrative, cannot be satisfied by the public sector of
the medical field in Ecuador.
The public sub-sector is constituted of the Public Heath Ministry, the
IESS, the Armed Forces and Police Health Services, the National
Institute for the Child and the Family, and the Ministry of Social
Well-Being. This sub-sector attends approximately 60% of the population,
especially concerning hospital attention.
The Baca Ortiz Hospital is a public institution that specializes in
child health. As is the case for many other hospitals and clinics, it is
governed by the Health Ministry of Ecuador. The Hospital offers services
such as hospitalization, emergency care, orthopedics, outside
consultation, a burn center , pediatrics and x-ray services.
Daily Tasks of the Volunteer:
The job of the volunteer consists of supporting the staff as they care
for the children by distributing the donations that the hospital
receives to the children that need them the most.
Additional Information:
As is the case in all hospitals in Ecuador, volunteers are not allowed
to perform the functions of a doctor or nurse. A minimum commitment of 4
weeks is required in order to be accepted to this project.
Lodging:
Student Residence in the Academia Latinoamericana.
Transportation:
To arrive at the project site from the Academia requires about 15
minutes via public bus.
Clothing and Accessories:
A white lab coat over comfortable work clothing, preferably white as
well. The climate in Quito is extremely variable. There are warm days
with temperatures up to 25 degrees C, and days that can be as cool as 13
degrees C, as well as occasional rain. Therefore be prepared for all
kinds of weather.
List of Optional Donations:
Hospital equipment and/or materials especially for the burn center or
Emergency room.
Suggestions:
It is better to bring a donation consisting of a large quantity of one
type of item instead of smaller amounts of various items.
PROJECT: HOSPITAL
GENERAL / GENERAL HOSPITAL
General Location:
Centre of Quito
Purpose of the Project:
To assure an efficient attention in health to all his affiliated
History and Description of the Project:
This Hospital is one of biggest in the country. Approximately 35% of the
total population have access to their services. The people who are taken
care of in this center of health are of limited resources and the
services of a private hospital
The affiliated and their children during the first year of life; the
pensioners; and the widow with right to a monthly payment, is protected
against the contingency of disease with the following benefits: Medical
aid, surgical, dental services that includes/understands: it consults
external, urgencies, preventive medicine and of rehabilitation, surgical
attention and of hospitalization.
Daily Tasks of the Volunteer:
Depending on the qualification of the volunteer and in coordination with
the Head of Teaching of the Hospital, it will be located in an area in
where its work contributes to the well-being of the patients. These
areas can be: therapy of bones, urgencies, surgery, among others.
Additional Information:
The volunteer must have at least 4 weeks to this work. He will have to
use the uniform of green color that catalogues it as so and will have to
subject to the internal dispositions of the hospital.
Lodging:
Student residence at Academia Latinoamericana.
Transportation:
Forty minutes from Academia Latinoamericana by public transportation
Clothing and accessories:
White long "mandil" and comfortable clothes
List of Optional Donations:
Hospitable equipment and/or materials for the of Emergency and Burned
area.
PROJECT: DERECHOS
HUMANOS / HUMAN RIGHTS
General Location:
Centre of Quito
Purpose of the Project:
AI’s vision is of a world in which every person enjoys all of the human
rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other
international human rightsstandards.
In pursuit of this vision, AI’s mission is to undertake research and
action focused on preventing and ending grave abuses of the rights to
physical and mental integrity, freedom of conscience and expression, and
freedom from discrimination, within the context of its work to promote
all human rights.
History and Description of the Project:
Amnesty International (AI) is a worldwide movement of people who
campaign for internationally recognized human rights
Daily Tasks of the Volunteer:
The job of the volunteer will take place in the Amnesty International
office in Quito. Depending on the skills of the volunteer, they will be
assigned to a specific task within the organization, working in
conjunction with the rest of the Amnesty International team. The
volunteer’s schedule will be during the morning hours.
Additional Information:
The volunteer should send a resume ahead of time, which will be
forwarded on to the organization so that they can make a decision to
accept the candidate or not.
Lodging:
Student Residence at the Academia Latinoamericana.
Transportation:
To arrive at the site from the Academia requires about 20 minutes via
public bus.
Clothing and Accessories:
Formal clothing for working in a private institution, such as long
pants, no jeans, a long-sleeved shirt. The climate in Quito is extremely
variable. There are warm days with temperatures up to 25 degrees C, and
days that can be as cool as 13 degrees C, as well as occasional rain.
Therefore be prepared for all kinds of weather.
PROJECT: ORGANIZACIÓN
DE AYUDA INTERNACIONAL / INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT ORGANIZATION
General Location:
North of Quito
Purpose of the Project:
Cooperate with people of limited resources that needs assistance
History and Description of the Project:
The project is in charge to canalize the aid and to serve as nexus of
connection between the foreign “padrinos” (godfathers) that adopt an
Ecuadorian boy and that help to their parents with money for education,
feeding, dress, etc.
Daily Tasks of the Volunteer:
The functions of the volunteer are basically to make the different
translations, that they can be of English to the Spanish p of some other
language like the German, French, Dutch, etc.
Additional Information:
The schedule of work of the volunteer is of Monday through Friday of
8h00 to 13h00. Or in the evening of 14h00 to 18h00. It is required to
have an intermediate level of Spanish: As much oral as written and a
minimum of 4 weeks available to make its work
Lodging:
At the Academia Latinoamericana
Transportation:
From the Academia to the project will be 20 min in public
transportation.
Clothing and Accessories:
Appropriate clothes to work in an administrative institution, like long
trousers, not jeans, shirt of long sleeve. The climate of Quito is very
variable, there is warm days with temperatures of 25 degrees Celsius and
also cold days de13 degrees Celsius, sometimes it rains reason why it is
necessary to be prepared for warm days and days of rain.
Suggestions:
This voluntary service is ideal for people to those who likes office
work.
PROJECT: GALERIA
DE ARTE / ART GALLERY
General Location:
Northern Quito
Purpose of the Project:
To perpetuate and conserve the works of the principal pintor of Ecuador,
which constitutes a cultural and artistic source of pride for the
country, as well as the world, besides also supporting the conservation
and diffusion of cultural growth, and Ecuadorian identity and history.
History and Description of the Project:
The Foundation was born with the goal and historic perspective of
preserving the enormous cultural archive, product of the accumulation of
artistic goods that, with enormous sacrifice and love, have been
consolidated over many decades.
Daily Tasks Volunteers:
In coordination with the project director, the volunteer can choose to
deepen their knowledge in different areas, such as:
The Pre-Colombian Museum, Museum of Colonial Art, Museum of Contemporary
Art, Library specializing in art, Workshops in silk-screening, Workshops
in restoration.
Basically, the volunteers are prepared to help out as guides in the
various museums in English and\or Spanish.
Additional Information:
Various types of social action have been promoted by the Foundation,
some for their own merit, some resulting from connections created by
entities that have wanted to work together with the Foundation, and
others as a product of agreements with national groups, such as the
Academia Latinoamericana.
Lodging:
Student Residence at the Academia Latinoamericana.
Transportation:
From the Academia to the project site is approximately 5 minutes in
public bus or 15 minutes walking.
Clothing and Accessories:
Clothing appropriate for working in a museum, with long pants, no jeans,
and a long-sleeved shirt. The climate in Quito is extremely variable.
There are warm days with temperatures up to 25 degrees C, and days that
can be as cool as 13 degrees C, as well as occasional rain. Therefore be
prepared for all kinds of weather.
List of Optional Donations:
Art books to enrich the Foundation’s library.
Suggestions:
This project is recommended for lovers of history, art and culture or
for students of fine arts, or also for people interested in working with
and/or studying social sciences and translating.
PROJECT:
UNIVERSIDAD / UNIVERSITY
General Location:
Center of Quito
Purpose of the Project:
The goals are: the generation of science, technology and art, the
creation of a space for the analysis of national problems and especially
for inquisitive and studious youth in constant search of truth and the
development of the human values of justice and solidarity.
History and Description of the Project:
The Central University of Ecuador is a state institution of superior
education, consisting of approximately 40,000 students, in a community
open to universal streams of thought; their presence is permanent.
The University is scientific, technical, democratic, autonomous,
non-religious, dynamic, multicultural, free, and linked to society.
Daily Tasks of the Volunteer:
Within the Language Department of the University, and specifically the
English Department, the volunteer in coordination with the Volunteer
Director establishes a schedule of work in which their labors can
function thus: support in the English Department as far as giving
classes, depending on the experiences and qualifications of the
volunteer and the immediate needs of the University. The number of hours
will fluctuate between 2 to 4 hours per day between October and June.
Additional Information:
A minimum of 4 weeks dedication to the project is required. The work of
the volunteer is very important, above all in order to reinforce the
correct pronunciation of the language.
Lodging:
The student residence at the Academia Latinoamericana.
Transportation:
To arrive at the project site from the Academia requires approximately
40 minutes via public bus.
Clothing and Accessories:
Clothing appropriate for work in an educational institution, such as
long pants, no jeans, and a long-sleeved shirt. The climate in Quito is
extremely variable. There are warm days with temperatures up to 25
degrees C, and days that can be as cool as 13 degrees C, as well as
occasional rain. Therefore be prepared for all kinds of weather.
List of Optional Donations:
Dry erase markers, notebooks.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS IN ECUADOR
PROJECT: RESERVA
ECOLÓGICA EN MINDO / MINDO CLOUD FOREST ECOLOGICAL RESERVE
General Location:
The Reserve is located 84 km from Quito in a subtropical valley with
temperatures between 18 and 24 degrees C, at an altitude of 1,224 meters
above sea level.
Access to the Mindo community is by paved roads, requiring 2.5 hours in
public transportation along the highway that leads to the Ecuadorian
coast from Quito.
Purpose of the Project:
The principal objective of the project is the sustainable development of
the community, which implies the conservation of the local biodiversity,
involving the inhabitants of the area, with a fair and equal
distribution of income generated by eco-tourism.
History and Description of the Project:
This reserve is part of the “cloud forest” ecosystem and is a very
important natural area in this region. The forest has unique flora and
fauna, also being home to 465 different species of birds.
The reserve forms part of the bio-region “El Chocó” which is one of the
three most important biological areas on the planet, for its high
concentration of biodiversity.
The community consists of approximately 2,000 inhabitants, which through
their own initiative have negotiated a “Protected Forest” declaration of
19,200 hectares, which guarantees clean water, pure air and a healthy
biodiversity in which the eco-tourism activities are based, involving
over 90% of the local inhabitants.
In April of 1988, the “Protected Forest” declaration was obtained and
the tourism project was proposed for 1990.
In October of 1997, Mindo was declared as an area of importance for
birds, and the community is fighting for the proposition to declare
Mindo as a Natural Homeland of Humanity.
The work of the volunteer is divided into 5 principal projects:
1. Environmental Program: This consists of taking an inventory of the
biodiversity, recuperation of the landscape, reforestation with native
species and environmental education.
2. Cultural Rescue: Research and investigation of history, dance, music,
stories and legends, natural medicine and customs.
3. Program of Community Development: Work together for the cleanliness
of the town, helping the farmers in traditional, organic agriculture,
construction and maintenance of trails in the woods, maintenance of
public spaces such as parks, schools, etc.
4. Program of Institutional Development: Creating databases,
translating, development and execution of projects, teaching languages,
eco-tourism and conservation.
5. Program of Community Extension: This program proposes to extend the
Mindo experience to nearby communities, as part of the program is
consolidating a pedestrian path between the Andes and the Ecuadorian
coast, to unite the communities and conserve the environment.
Moreover, the volunteer can teach languages (English, French, German) to
children ages 7-12. This project takes place in the main office in the
central park of Mindo.
Daily Tasks of the Volunteer:
Schedules can be chosen for the morning or the afternoon. Volunteers
will always be working in contact with the community. In coordination
with the director, the work will be flexible and coordinated to meet the
needs of the aforementioned projects and also the skills and preferences
of the volunteer.
Additional Information:
Malaria is not present in Mindo. There are internet connections.
Electricity exists at 110 volts.
Lodging:
The volunteer can stay with a local family or in the “Volunteer House,”
which offers many comforts such as a sitting area, electricity, hot
water, bedrooms and shared bathrooms. Meals are included.
If they prefers to live with an local host family, this is also
possible.
Transportation:
From Quito you will need to take the bus from Asunción y Manuel Larrea
streets (near El Ejido Park). The transportation company is “Flor del
Valle,” known as Cayambe. The cost is $2.50. The bus leaves Mondays and
Fridays at 8:00am and 3:45pm. The trip takes 2 hours. The cost of
transportation is not included.
Clothing and Accessories:
Sleeping bag, lantern, two pairs of flexible gloves (for protection in
work involving sticks, machetes, carrying rocks), work shoes (with good
traction and water-resistant), plastic boots (you can buy them in Mindo
for $8.00), comfortable clothing for working in the climate (long pants
, t-shirts and bathing suit), rain poncho, insect repellent, mosquito
net (with very small holes), personal items (soap, towel, shampoo,
toothbrush, etc.)
List of Optional Donations:
Scholastic materials (paper, posterboard, etc.), books for the library
(any language), diapers.
Suggestions:
Professional qualification isn’t necessary, we can adapt your knowledge
and abilities to our needs. It is recommended to have a level of Spanish
sufficiently high enough to communicate with the community.
PROJECT: TROPICAL
RESERVE
a) Various activities associated with the development of a new reserve
project are assisting researchers, and maintenance of the
infrastructure. Note: rigorous conditions exist during the wet season
from January to June.
b) The Centre for the Conservation of Ecuador's Western Coastal Forest
Plants: Experimental silviculture of tropical trees, seed and data
collection, plus reforestation. Currently we are reforesting 175
hectares as part of 2 carbon offset reforestation project, using a
variety of native species. Volunteer generally work two days each week
on this project.
c) Staff also lead volunteers on two hikes into the forest each week to
learn about bio-diversity themes. During the second week there is a
three day community visit and a camping trip in the forest is organized
for the third week.
d) Tropical Biological Reserve has been recognized as a "HOT SPOT",
being the third priority for conservation in the world . Also, is very
famous considering the highest percent of biodiversity and endemism of
plant and animals.
e) Research Projects: At the moment, several scientific projects are
being developed at Biological reserve. These projects are relative to
fenology study; A research on fog Precipitation in the coastal
Premontane Wet Forest of Ecuador , natural regeneration in permanent
plots around the reserve, a study about Bromelias, natural regeneration
in gaps
f) Volunteers can participate in on-going research and applied project 2
day each week. The station has a list of on going projects and volunteer
can submit original ideas in 2 page proposals.
g) One day each week, handicraft production is taught by a local
community member.
PROJECT: MONTANO
RESERVE
a) Various activities associated with the development of a new reserve
project, biological inventories (especially plant and bird life), and
research assistance. Also trail design; development, and maintenance are
required activities.
b) The Centre for the Conservation of Andean Plants: Experimental
silviculture of Andean trees, seed and data collection, plus
reforestation. There is also a botanical garden that requires
maintenance and enhancement.
c) Environmental education: Development and instruction of environmental
activities to local school children, and adults. Note: A working
knowledge of Spanish is required to teach activities.
d) Individuals interested in developing new projects should submit a
short (2-5 page) proposal along with their application letter. We
encourage new project ideas.
PROJECT: JUNGLE
RESERVE
The centre for Conservation of the Amazonian Plants: reforestation,
experimental silviculture of tropical trees, development and maintenance
of botanical garden and plant conservation center, and seed collecting.
Various activities associated with the development of a reserve project,
including maintenance and infrastructure development.
Environmental education program: Interns develop and instruct activities
and classes on conservation, biology, and human issues for local school
children and adults. The program is taught both in local schools and at
Jungle reserve
Note: A good working use of Spanish and a three month minimum commitment
is required to participate in the environmental education program.
PROJECT:
GALAPAGOS BIOLOGICAL STATION (Galápagos Islands)
We are proud to announce the opening of a new program on the island San
Cristobal in the Galapagos. The new reserve site is located in the
highlands of the island, on a 200 hectare site, where there is still
native vegetation. The native vegetation consists of Miconias, ferns and
other native herbacious species.
This new program will be open to researchers, guided natural history
groups, and to volunteers. The accommodations are rustic, with room at
the moment for groups of up to 12. Expansion of the cabin facilities to
accommodate larger groups is planned for the future. Researchers can
obtain needed permits with assistance of the Academia. Natural History
groups must reserve at least 4 months in advance of their visit.
Main objective is to develop reforestation and technology to reconstruct
native habitat in the highlands on San Cristobal Island, and to serve as
a centre for similar projects in the highlands on other populated
islands in the Galapagos chain. The remaining native highland forests on
the populated islands is quite limited due to farming activities in
general, and the introduction of useful, but very invasive species from
the mainland such as tropical cedar and Cinchona. The program has
established a Plant Conservation Centre for the production of native
plant species for this work.
In addition the foundation will be working collaboratively with local
landowners to develop clean agricultural alternatives for the production
of vegetables and fruits to sell to local universities, restaurants, and
hotels. Due to the extensive importation of products from the mainland,
invasive species are entering the Galapagos on a daily basis. This
agricultural production program will be initiated this year.
Volunteers will work on both the habitat restoration and agricultural
components while at the reserve. In addition program staff will lead
volunteers on various destination hikes to a nearby lagoon, native
forests, beaches, the local villages to explain the ecological and human
dynamic of Galapagos. Opportunities to work on group research and
monitoring projects will be developed.
PROJECT:
QUITO URBAN FORESTRY RESERVE
This in the first stages of establishing an urban forestry reserve on
the valley of Tumbaco located on the outskirts of Quito. The objective
of the project is to re-establish a forest cover consisting of numerous
native tree species on a 2,600 hectare ecological area at the top of
this mountain. Centuries of indigenous, Spanish and Ecuadorian
occupation has resulted in the almost complete deforestation of the
Inter Andean region.
Less than 2% of the original forest cover remains, usually found in
highly disturbed forest patches of 2-5 hectares. Of the proposed 2600
hectare ecological area, less than 15 hectares of original forest
remains. The species composition of what remains is extremely
interesting.
Volunteers will work with local
communities to establish nurseries and to germinate the first tree
saplings. Collaboratively with volunteers, nearby school groups, and
community members about 25,000 tree saplings are being produced each
month.
Volunteers who decide to contribute to
this project can travel with project Staff to the various reforestation
worksites on a daily basis, or can choose to stay and live with families
in communities at the base of the project.
This is an excellent opportunity for
volunteers that wish to stay near to Quito to study Spanish, or those
interested in assisting in the start-up of a large scale forestry-agroforestry
project and the design and development of an urban reserve project. We
plan to establish a Central Nursery-Urban Plant Production Center which
will have three main functions including:
a) Production hundreds of thousands of tree saplings representing a high
percentage of the native species found in the region and the development
of reforestation technology for native species growing in the Inter
Andean region
b) Environmental Education for educational groups of all ages and levels
and for Ecuadorian professionals.
c) Serve for ex-situ conservation of plant species in danger of
extinction.
As the project proceeds the foundation has medium term and long range
plans for the development of a range of ecologically based community
development projects including agroforestry and artesania (handicraft
production) among others and research projects to monitor ecological
processes as the forest returns to this mountain. The National Herbarium
will work to establish a 2 hectare Botanical Garden, while students from
the local University will participate in the design and development of
the project. The reserve will serve as a Noah`s Ark for Interandean
Plants and Animals in danger of Extinction. This forestry reserve will
also serve as a pilot project for the future establishment of a
nationwide network of urban forestry projects and Urban Plant Production
Centers.
We are interested in volunteers who wish to help with all components of
the reforestation process, reserve design and development in general,
management plan development and who want to work with community members
and local students.
PROJECT: MANGROVE
AQUACULTURE RESEARCH AND BIOLOGICAL STATION
The forty hectare costal farm is located on a mangrove island in the
Muisne Estuary. The island also features primary tropical rainforest,
beach, and estuarine habitat. The purpose of the farm is to develop and
implement ecological technologies that will help to integrate modern
aquaculture with a healthy coastal environment. The mangrove ecosystem
in particular has been heavily impacted by commercial aquaculture over
the last couple decades and our goal is to provide alternatives to
destructive practices, both on the industrial and community levels.
Volunteers wishing to work at the Mangrove Station will be able to
participate in a number of conservation and research activities. Initial
projects include mangrove and tropical humid forest reforestation,
community outreach, construction of station facilities, monitoring and
management of aquaculture systems, and biological inventories.
Mangrove Nursery - An extensive mangrove nursery will be created within
an area that is regularly inundated by tidal waters. All seven
Ecuadorian mangrove species will be utilized, in addition to halophytic
ferns and other plants associated with mangroves. Studies will be
undertaken to better understand mangrove germination, growth, and
habitat requirements.
Seedlings in the nursery will be used to create mangrove biofilters,
will be placed within ecological aquaculture ponds, and will be utilized
for general reforestation efforts.
Mangrove Biofilters - In order to mitigate the effects of aquaculture
pond effluent, mangroves biofilters will be created in front of all
effluent gates and within drainage canals.
Mangroves are one of the planet's most productive ecosystems and have
the capacity to clean waters and reduce organic content. Biofilters
consist simply of small mangrove forests in which effluent waters must
pass before reaching open waters.
Ecological Aquaculture Ponds - Aquaculture ponds will use no
antibiotics. Through the use of polyculture and the introduction of
native plankton, an attempt will be made to bring ponds as close to
functioning ecosystems as possible. To further enhance ecological
function, mangrove trees will be planted on the banks and on islands
within the ponds.
Water Quality Monitoring - Various components of water quality will be
monitored within aquaculture ponds, mangroves, adjacent estuary, ocean,
and in estuarine areas around nearby shrimp farms. Special attention
will be paid to the quality of water under the influence of the mangrove
biofilters.
Aquaculture Alternatives - In order to produce alternative income
sources for local communities and for Ecuador's aquaculture industry, as
well as to lessen the dependence on monoculture, alternative species
will be researched. Initial trials will begin using Chame (Dormitor
latrifrons), a native estuarine fish; Calico Scallops; and two native
cockle species.
Clean-ups and Recycling - Areas of mangrove forest that are exposed to
rapid currents often collect considerable human garbage. Additionally,
the trash system on the island of Muisne is poorly organized and many
are considerably littered. Volunteers will participate in occasional
mangrove and beach clean-ups. A recycling program for Muisne will be the
ideal next step and any volunteers with experience in developing
recycling programs and/or ecological waste removal are invited to take
the initiative on beginning this process.
Sustainable and Organic Aquaculture Trials - In order to produce the
best sustainable methodologies for industrial aquaculture, various
trials will be conducted throughout the coming years. In particular, an
investigation will be made that will compare various industrial
fertilizers with organic forms such as compost and manure.
Biodiversity Inventories - In order to better understand Mangrove
ecosystems and to better appreciate what is being conserved,
biodiversity inventories will be conducted during the early part of
2001. These inventories will focus on key taxa, including vascular
plants, birds, crustaceans, and fishes.
Interns for sustainable aquaculture internship: we require a minimum of
3 months. They participate exclusively in aquaculture techniques unless
they want to take part in some of the other activities. These interns
will develop a project under the supervision of the direction of the
staff. Your interest will be taken into account. An example could be
monitoring of different organic fertilizers in different production
ponds or trial experiments with alternative aquaculture species. We also
accept proposals for research topics.
For the Sustainable aquaculture internship application, we also require
that you send a one page statement of interest and a recommendation
letter.
ORGANIZATION: DRY
FOREST RESERVE SITE
The Dry Forest Biological Station is located in the Province of Manabí
on the coast of Ecuador. The reserve includes tropical dry,
semi-deciduous, and some humid forest on the highest ridge top.
The dry forest region of Ecuador is considered the most endangered of
the already vastly reduced forests on its west coast. A number of
mammal, bird and tree species chich have disappeared elsewhere as dry
forests have been cut are relatively abundant at the Dry Forest Reserve.
Volunteers are invited during the coming year to participate in the
reserve start-up. Activities will include mapping the reserve
boundaries, phenological studies, building construction, trail
establishment, tree nursery and agro-forestry projects.
Natural history, university and additional groups are welcome to carry
out courses and research at the new Dry Forest Biological Station.
ORGANIZATION: LA
ESTACION - CLOUD FOREST BIOLOGICAL STATION
This reserve is 814 hectares in size and is located in the western
mountain range of the Andes, at an altitude between 1100-2040 meters
above sea level. The station is part of two important bioregions, the
“Tropical Andes” and the “Cloud Forest-Western Ecuador” considered
within the top five biodiversity hotspots on earth due to the high
levels of biodiversity and the number of endemic species found in these
ecosystems. In La Estacion there are three types of forest: pre-montane
evergreen forest, low montane forest and tropical montane cloud forest.
Three hundred and twenty bird species
have been identified so far at La Estacion, of which 19 are endemic to
the region and 7 are vulnerable or in danger of extinction. Although,
the area is extremely important for the conservation of biodiversity and
the protection of local watersheds, however, deforestation still remains
as the leading threat to the region. The Reserve is working to combat
deforestation in a number of ways: First, and foremost, by protecting
existing forests and restoring degraded areas within and outside the
reserve, along with community and economic integration and sustainable
agriculture.
Volunteer Activities
• Reforestation Program: To reach our aim at restoring degraded areas we
are reforesting 100 hectares with native hardwoods, including
silviculture and agroforestry studies. The volunteers will be
responsible of: collecting seeds, tree nursery, and out planting. In
addition, we are delimiting the reserve’s southern and eastern borders
by planting different kinds of plants.
• Biological Inventories and research assistance: At the moment, we are
developing two inventories, birds and orchids. Our goal is to do other
biological inventories as well.
• Ecotourism Program: We receive groups interested in nature and
conservation, researchers, and school and university students (Boston
University, Babson College, Kalamazoo College, Georgetown University,
Albert Ludwigs Universität of Freiburg, University of North Carolina
Wilmington, among others). The volunteers will participate in: trail
design and maintenance, infrastructure development, orchid garden,
medicinal plants garden maintenance, guiding groups, among other
activities.
• Promoting your creativity: Volunteers can participate in on-going
research and applied projects 2 days each week. The station has a list
of on going projects and volunteers can submit original ideas in a 2
page proposal.
• Sustainable agriculture: We are striving to make this part of Ecuador
a model of integrated farming, together with the concept of preservation
of the natural forest. Volunteers can participate in the on-going
sustainable agriculture projects (animals: cattle, pigs, chickens,
ducks, turkeys; crops: banana, papaya, beens, manioc, sugar cane,
coffee, etc.) The volunteers will be pioneers at establishing an organic
garden.
• Community integration: Our main aim is the empowerment of the local
communities, specially with the community located at the entrance of the
reserve. It is a small village of 50 families, with a small elementary
school (with one or two teachers), small medical centre, two carpenter
shops, a small store, traditional sweets factory (guaba sweets, peanuts,
etc). The volunteers can participate in the projects, such as teaching
English at the local school. If you have knowledge on medicine or first
aid your help will be very important for the community since there is
only one nurse working everyday, and one doctor one day per week.
• Hikes: Staff also lead volunteers on hikes into the forest each week
to learn about bio-diversity themes, wildlife observation, natural
history, horse back riding, lectures (different topics available).
• COB Workshops, learn to build your own house: At La Estacion the
volunteers will be able to learn the COB technique (ecoconstruction) to
create furniture, walls, ovens and even houses with clay, sand, dry
herbs and with their hands and imagination.
Lodging Facilities
HELPING THE ENVIROMENT IN A FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE
The accommodation will be at the San Francisco House. The house has
three bedrooms for 10 volunteers, dinning room, bathroom with hot shower
and a good view of the cloud forest.
If you need we offer laundry service free of charge.
ORGANIZATION:
CLOUD FOREST ECOLOGICAL RESERVE
The Reserve is located 84 km from Quito in a subtropical valley with
temperatures between 18 and 24 degrees C, at an altitude of 1,224 meters
above sea level. Access to the Mindo community is by paved roads,
requiring 2.5 hours in public transportation along the highway that
leads to the Ecuadorian coast from Quito.
The principal objective of the project is the sustainable development of
the community, which implies the conservation of the local biodiversity,
involving the inhabitants of the area, with a fair and equal
distribution of income generated by eco-tourism.
History and Description of the Project:
This reserve is part of the “cloud forest” ecosystem and is a very
important natural area in this region. The forest has unique flora and
fauna, also being home to 465 different species of birds.
The reserve forms part of the bio-region “El Chocó” which is one of the
three most important biological areas on the planet, for its high
concentration of biodiversity.
The community consists of approximately 2,000 inhabitants, which through
their own initiative have negotiated a “Protected Forest” declaration of
19,200 hectares, which guarantees clean water, pure air and a healthy
biodiversity in which the eco-tourism activities are based, involving
over 90% of the local inhabitants.
In April of 1988, the “Protected Forest”
declaration was obtained and the tourism project was proposed for 1990.
In October of 1997, Mindo was declared as an area of importance for
birds, and the community is fighting for the proposition to declare
Mindo as a Natural Homeland of Humanity.
The work of the volunteer is divided
into 5 principal projects:
1. Environmental Program: This consists of taking an inventory of the
biodiversity, recuperation of the landscape, reforestation with native
species and environmental education.
2. Cultural Rescue: Research and investigation of history, dance, music,
stories and legends, natural medicine and customs.
3. Program of Community Development: Work together for the cleanliness
of the town, helping the farmers in traditional, organic agriculture,
construction and maintenance of trails in the woods, maintenance of
public spaces such as parks, schools, etc.
4. Program of Institutional Development: Creating databases,
translating, development and execution of projects, teaching languages,
eco-tourism and conservation.
5. Program of Community Extension: This program proposes to extend the
Mindo experience to nearby communities, as part of the program is
consolidating a pedestrian path between the Andes and the Ecuadorian
coast, to unite the communities and conserve the environment.
Moreover, the volunteer can teach languages (English, French, German) to
children ages 7-12. This project takes place in the main office in the
central park of Mindo.
Daily Tasks of the Volunteer:
Schedules can be chosen for the morning or the afternoon. Volunteers
will always be working in contact with the community. In coordination
with the director, the work will be flexible and coordinated to meet the
needs of the aforementioned projects and also the skills and preferences
of the volunteer.
Additional Information:
Malaria is not present in Mindo. There are internet connections.
Electricity exists at 110 volts.
Lodging:
The volunteer can stay with a local family or in the “Volunteer House,”
which offers many comforts such as a sitting area, electricity, hot
water, bedrooms and shared bathrooms. Meals are included.
If they prefers to live with an local host family, this is also
possible.
Transportation:
From Quito you will need to take the bus from Asunción y Manuel Larrea
streets (near El Ejido Park). The transportation company is “Flor del
Valle,” known as Cayambe. The cost is $2.50. The bus leaves Mondays and
Fridays at 8:00am and 3:45pm. The trip takes 2 hours. The cost of
transportation is not included.
Clothing and Accessories:
Sleeping bag, lantern, two pairs of flexible gloves (for protection in
work involving sticks, machetes, carrying rocks), work shoes (with good
traction and water-resistant), plastic boots (you can buy them in Mindo
for $8.00), comfortable clothing for working in the climate (long pants
, t-shirts and bathing suit), rain poncho, insect repellent, mosquito
net (with very small holes), personal items (soap, towel, shampoo,
toothbrush, etc.)
List of Optional Donations:
Scholastic materials (paper, posterboard, etc.), books for the library
(any language), diapers.
Suggestions:
Professional qualification isn’t necessary, we can adapt your knowledge
and abilities to our needs. It is recommended to have a level of Spanish
sufficiently high enough to communicate with the community.
WHAT TO BRING FOR ALL ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT:
Tight-fitting rubber boots, rain poncho and flashlight are the most
important items. Other suggested items are: sheets or sleeping bag,
insect repellent, sun protection, water bottle, swim suit, small pocket
knife, sunglasses, plastic (ziplock) bags for dry storage, and
binoculars. Due to very humid conditions, lightweight, easy to dry
clothing is also recommended. At Montano reserve, warm clothing is
needed due to cold high altitude temperatures at night. Volunteers are
representatives of each project and are expected to act in ways that
enhance the station's relations with local people and outside visitors.
Alcohol and drugs are prohibited at all four sites.
INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
Do you want to gain University credit,
practice your Spanish skills and have a Latin American working
experience? Become an Intern!!
Academia Latinoamericana can offer you 1 - 3 months of our quality
Internship Program in Quito, Ecuador.
One month of Intensive Spanish program (20 hours per week)
One to three months of Internship
Use your Spanish skills as an unpaid Intern
Gain valuable work experience
Learn office working vocabulary
See how business is conducted in Latin America
Establish professional contacts
Advertising & Marketing
Agriculture
Banking & Finance
Building & Construction
Computing
Consumer & Home Products
Defense
Education & Teaching
Electronics
Environmental Eng. & Sciences
Equipment Manufacturing
Government
Health Care & Medicine
Insurance
Law
Management Consulting
Pharmaceuticals
Public Service & Civic Orgs.
Publishing
Retail & Merchandising
Software
Newspaper and radio
|
