Description

This program provides volunteers with the unique opportunity to volunteer short-term with rural communities near Esteli, Nicaragua, in the midst of the beautiful Segovia Mountains. Surrounded by mountains, valleys and waterfalls, volunteers will live in this old Sandinista stronghold, learning or improve their Spanish, and traveling to nearby rural areas for their project work. GVI, along with leaders of the communities, have built and started a school in La Thompson and are funding and developing education programs and 'aulas abiertas' (open classes) to assist children who otherwise may not have the opportunity for any formal education or who need reinforcement.

Spanish lessons and several trips and activities are also included in the program, including a weekend trip to the Miraflor Natural Reserve and a day's hike to the Salto de la Estanzuela Waterfall. You can also go horse-riding, attend lectures on local history and visit local museums and points of interest in Esteli.

How this program makes a difference?

In rural Nicaragua, education and literacy levels are still depressingly low, despite having a "Year of Literacy" in 1980 when the FSLN (Frente Sandinista de Liberacion Nacional) government concentrated on tackling the country's high levels of illiteracy. In the rural communities we aim to help around Esteli, the present day problems with education are due to economic constraints and a lack of teaching materials and teachers themselves. The large majority of families rely on agriculture, and with the country's changeable climate and erratic harvests, poverty levels are extremely high. There is a huge need for help within these communities where the local understaffed schools are sometimes an hour's walk from the children homes.

Highlights

* Work in a Nicaraguan community
* Teach children and adults
* Live with a host family
* Learn Spanish (optional)
* Explore the local region
* Enjoy hikes and horse treks
* Visit nearby nature reserves

Travel Types

• Tours
• Trekking
• Homestay
• Language Immersion
• Volunteering

Qualifications

No special training or qualifications are required as you will receive training in the field

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

From USD 955 for 2 weeks.

Program Fees Include:

The Volunteer contribution includes all your food, accommodation, training materials and project equipment.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel

Independently

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

1-2 weeks

GVI's Mission Statement

Global Vision International aims to promote the advancement of sustainable development through the creation of partnerships, promotion of local and global education, opportunities and via direct financial support. GVI remains committed to its local partners by ensuring they receive full credit for any research undertaken or achievements reached.

Year Founded

1998