Description

As one of 20 countries with the greatest biodiversity in the world, Costa Rica is home to some of the most spectacular flora and fauna. Location and climate have contributed to the creation of the nation's natural splendor. Efforts by the government and private corporations have teamed to help maintain it.

Through policy initiatives, the Costa Rican government has taken a deliberate and conscientious approach aimed at protecting and preserving some of the world's most fragile ecosystems. As a result, over 25 percent of the country's land has been categorically protected to stave off further degradation.

Corporations are doing their part as well. Helping to establish private reserves to encourage eco-tourism and research, the local private sector is helping to promote appreciation and better understanding of the need for environmental conservation among future generations.

Protecting and preserving the environment is a matter that affects everyone. As an AMPED volunteer, you can do your part to further this global community effort. Lend your knowledge and skills to develop and implement grassroots recycling programs, clean-up efforts, and other local projects in Atenas.

Volunteers may be assigned the following responsibilities:

* Planting trees;
* Cleaning creeks or park areas; and
* Developing and promoting recycling efforts.

Highlights

Authentic cultural immersion experience as participants live with a local host family in addition to having daily interaction with other local in the community and at their project assignment.

Qualifications

Not Applicable.

Intern Types

• Environmental Studies
• Forestry

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Starting at 782

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

Includes project set-up arrangements, airport pick-up and drop-off, orientation, host family accommodations, three meals/day, 24/7 emergency in-country staff support, and project donation. Spanish lessons are available in Costa Rica for an additional weekly fee.

Participants will also receive information regarding their placement prior to their departure. Placement information, will include in-country contact information, alternative accommodations for delayed arrivals, currency exchange, phone and internet communication, laundry, etc.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

While participation is not limited to this demographic, the average age is 18-26. Participants that are flexible and open minded when it comes to cultural differences, ways of life, and work pace are those that tend to benefit most from their experience abroad, as do those that demonstrate initiative with regard to recommending and implementing changes to improve the project and to assist the staff.

Age Range

18 and over

This Program is open to

American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups of Usually 2-3, depending on the time of year.

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Resume
• Transcript

Typically The Application Process Time is

2-4 weeks

Year Founded

2008