Description

This environmental & wildlife education centre offers experiential learning programs and training opportunities while serving as a model of conservation land stewardship. The sanctuary also places heavy importance on encouraging conservation management, environmental education and ecotourism.

The sanctuary consists of 1,070 acres of tropical forest and savanna habitats. Located in central Belize and bordered by the Sibun River that flows from the Maya Mountains through the coastal savanna on its path to the Caribbean Sea. Situated adjacent to Monkey Bay National Park (2250 acres), together they form a biological corridor link spanning the Sibun watershed. The 3300 acre protected area is home to a large number of exotic mammal species, including tapir, puma, jaguar and crocodiles. There are a variety of volunteer & learning opportunities at this project.

Program Director Matthew Miller says; "We strive to serve our volunteers and students by providing exposure to issues of global importance and offering experiences that emphasize the interconnectedness of people and their environment."

The overall goal is to guide our volunteers and students in experiencing the natural wonders of the tropics and life in a developing country, while recognizing the diversity of human potential through other cultures. From a peaceful natural setting at the sanctuary volunteers will have a chance to assist staff in experiments with sustainable living technologies and conservation land management. Hands-on, experiential learning techniques are employed using the protected areas system, biological corridor, rural village host communities and the country of Belize as the outdoor classroom.

Volunteers work independently, under the guidance of the sanctuary staff, and are expected to contribute 30 hours per week to the program. Projects are mostly outdoor and physical in nature, such as maintaining our organic gardens, landscaping, composting, and the like.

Project Details
* Project Duration: Min 2 weeks - Long Term
* Project Costs: USD885
* Project Location: The Sanctuary is situated adjacent to Monkey Bay National Park between Belize City and Belmopan
* Arrival Airport: Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE)
* Activities: Assist on environmental conservation and animal rescue projects within the sanctuary.
* Working Hours: Flexible; Monday to Friday up to 6 hours a day, all other time is free.
* Getting to the project: Volunteers & students live on the grounds of the sanctuary.
* Requirements: Minimum Age 18 unless accompanied by a guardian. Student Groups are welcome.

Travel Types

• Archaeology
• BackPacking Abroad
• Birdwatching
• Camping
• Canoeing
• Caving/Spelunking
• Climbing
• Cooking
• Deep-Sea Fishing
• Eco Tours
• Environmental Studies
• Hiking
• Homestay
• Kayaking (River)
• Native Culture Studies
• Nature Tours
• Photography
• RainForest Tours
• Scuba
• Snorkeling
• Student Tours
• Tours
• Volunteering

Qualifications

There are no specific qualifications required for this volunteer opportunity.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

885

Cost Includes:

• Emergency evacuation services
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Medical insurance
• Medical services
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

What's Included
* Accommodation: Dormitory style lodging within the sanctuary. Local family home-stay options are available.
* Meals: Typical Belizan dishes are served 3 times daily.
* Airport or Bus Terminal Pickup & Drop-off : Included on arrival and departure day.
* Training: Pre-departure "Introductory Package" will be mailed and in-country orientation with our Volunteer Coordinator.
* Support: Pre-departure briefing & help-desk, local in-country Volunteer Coordinator and 24 hour emergency support.
* Insurance: All AAV volunteers will receive "Basic" Travel & Medical insurance included in their package.
* Bonus: "Welcome Package" with an AAV t-shirt, local tips and coupons to help you get settled quickly and enhance the duration of your stay!

What's Not Included
* Airfare: However, we would be more than happy to help you find and schedule your flight.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

Our international volunteers come from all edges of the globe with a variety of backgrounds, everyone is welcome! A typical AAV volunteer is adventurous, outgoing and dedicated. Our volunteers all carry an open mind and a big heart!

Age Range

Minimum Age Requirement of 18 (unless accompanied by a guardian) No Maximum Age

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Dormitory
• Group living
• Guest House
• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 1-6

Application Process Involves

• In-Person Interview when Feasible
• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Resume

Typically The Application Process Time is

48hrs

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

All Access Volunteers's Mission Statement

To provide a unique volunteer experience and assist in the long-term sustainability of our partner organizations throughout Latin America.

Year Founded

2009