Location:

Quetzaltenango, Guatemala; Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Program Type:

Volunteer Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Work Types:

Animals, Economic Development, Education, Environment, Health, Social Services, Women's Rights

Duration:

1-2 weeks, 1-3 months, 4-6 months

Program Overview

Program Description:

Medical Program:

Our partner organization is a large charity hospital with orphanage and senior citizens' home in the center of Antigua Guatemala. The hospital provides both in-patient and ambulatory care to large numbers of people from the entire region who could not afford medical care otherwise or the local hospitals at their place of residence cannot provide appropriate treatment.

Our programs in Guatemala give you an extraordinary opportunity to experience the fascinating culture and history of one of the most diverse countries on the American continent. Choose from Medical, Education / Teaching or Environment / Agriculture Programs.

Environment / Agriculture Program

Guatemala's rapidly growing population and the accompanying need for more resources to house, feed and clothe them have led to agricultural practices that are not always environmentally friendly. Particularly slash and burn agriculture has caused serious damage to the environment in some areas and reforestation projects are underway to repair the damage that was done.

Volunteers can work on a macadamia plantation that is very active in reforestation projects and has donated more than 350,000 seedlings to communities in Guatemala and Honduras to assist in reforestation projects and provide local farmers with a reliable source of income.

Volunteers can help plant and care for the trees, harvest and process the macadamia nuts, and guide visitors around the plantation.

Volunteers need to speak at least basic Spanish. Previous experience in agriculture is not required but would be helpful.

Program Length: From From 1 to 12 weeks
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, from 3 to 8 hours per day
Accommodations: Homestay
Transportation: 15 Minute walk or short bus ride, volunteer pays for the transportation
Meals: Yes, 3 meals a day Mon-Fri / 2 meals Saturday / no meals on Sundays
Requirements: 18+ years, high / intermediate Spanish knowledge, and caring spirit

Setting Description:

Education / Teaching:

Our partner organization in Alotenango focuses on education for children and adults. They provide homework help as well as recreational and educational activities for children and teach them about nutrition, personal hygiene and environmental protection.

The organization also assists adults with lectures about nutrition and teaches them professional skills like sewing or gardening.

Volunteers are needed to assist the teachers with their work with children and adults alike. Particularly welcome are volunteers who can teach English and computer skills.

Cost:

Please check our Cost page on our website.

Additional Program Information

Scholarships:

No