Description

Most species of sea turtles around the world are now considered endangered; many of them accidentally caught in fishing nets or poached for their meat or shells. Preserving the sea turtle population is vital in maintaining the natural equilibrium and biological diversity in Caribbean waters. ELI works with organizations in five different centers around the Yucatan Peninsula that the sea turtles during their nesting season from April to September and May to October when they are most vulnerable. Placements take place in camps outside the city of Merida. Volunteers share basic cabins with other participants and sleep in hammocks. Participants on this project have the chance to go on night rounds to find nesting sites, work with the community to promote awareness of this issue, and collect data about progress on this project.

Highlights

Experience the incredible beauty and culture of Mexico while assisting local organizations and gaining a deep understanding of the people and culture. Volunteers and interns work in community run organizations, gaining firsthand knowledge of the complex conservation issues Mexico is facing. Participants have plenty of time to explore the country during the weekends. Yucatan has wonderful places and almost endless possibilities for adventure.

Qualifications

Volunteers for this program do not have to speak Spanish but must be comfortable in an entirely Spanish speaking environment. Participants must commit to at least a 4-week program and be in good physical condition.

Minimum Education

High School

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

Costs vary. Please contact us for details

Cost Includes:

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

Program Fees Include:

* Pre-departure Support: ELI's staff is very knowledgeable and happy to help volunteers and interns to prepare for their travels.

* Airport Pickup: Volunteers are met at the airport in Mérida and provided with transportation to their host family.

* In-country Orientation: Each volunteer program starts with a two to three day orientation which covers important topics on the logistics of living and working in Mexico, city tours and help with transportation.

* In-country Staff Support: ELI's Mexico coordinator is very resourceful and on call 24/7 in case of emergency.

* Accommodations: Volunteers will stay with a local host family where they will be provided with a room and breakfast and dinner each day. By living with a family, volunteers will learn about the day to day rhythms of Ecuadorian life first hand as well as sample traditional meals not usually available in restaurants. Host families are eager to welcome volunteers and are a fantastic resource for learning about the local culture and sights.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

There is no typical ELI volunteer. We work with people from all over the world and a variety of backgrounds. ELI has placed volunteers ranging in age from 18-81. Successful volunteers are flexible, upbeat, energetic, and inquisitive.

Age Range

18-50

This Program is open to

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

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Resume
• Written Application

ELI-Experiential Learning International's Mission Statement

ELI's full name, Experiential Learning International, reflects our philosophy. We believe that the most compelling life lessons come through experience, and that international experiences are among the most profound influences on our sense of self and our view of the world. ELI facilitates flexible international learning programs for independent travelers by partnering with local organizations to give participants the opportunity to experience and contribute to sustainable ongoing local projects throughout the world.

Year Founded

2001