Description

Volunteers plan and run sports lessons and games for under-privileged children and poor families in the stunning area of Tortuguero, with its world famous turtle nesting beach and National Park. The program is set in the small village of San Francisco, and volunteers will have views of the Caribbean sea on one side and the rainforest on the other. Sport is a vital tool to attract children to the school and encourage participation in education and yet one which local schools do not have the resources to supply. Volunteers learn basic Spanish and work with children of all ages, but predominantly with children from ages 5 to 13. The main work includes planning lessons and conducting sports events and games. Volunteers supply additional resources to an under-resourced school allowing for improved education and opportunity for children in one of poorest areas of Costa Rica. In addition to sports teaching volunteers may be required to assist the school with basic education and other extra curricular activities. Opportunities exist on weekends for rainforest tours, canopy tours, visiting idyllic beaches and white water rafting.

How this program makes a difference:

The project takes place in a small settlement within a wildlife refuge. The families in this village have access to only the most basic education; the schooling is under resourced and has no formal physical education program. The school has two teachers and 2 classrooms, which students attend for 3 hours, either in the morning or the afternoons. Education is key to assisting the community to improve its economic situation and this project supplies additional personnel and funding to the school and supplies activities which encourage the local children to attend school. The project and volunteers supply resources which this under resourced school is not otherwise able to supply.

Highlights

* Getting to know the children and families, and them getting to know and recognize you
* Becoming part of the community in a beautiful and remote part of Costa Rica
* Group Spanish lessons
* Witnessing the beautiful wild rainforests, Caribbean beaches and local canals
* Living in a peaceful area with no cars or roads
* Witnessing some of the fantastic wildlife of the area such as sea turtles, toucans, monkeys and more
* Seeing the direct impact you can have in a short timeframe
* Taking extra time to explore the wonders of Costa Rica.

Travel Types

• Soccer/Football
• Sports
• Volunteering

Qualifications

No previous experience is required as all volunteers are trained by GVI staff. Applicants need to be over 18 and complete a background check to work with children. It is important to be self-motivated throughout your stay, a team player and have a good sense of fun! Planning sessions and basic classroom workshops are provided. No previous teaching qualifications are required, as lesson support from experienced staff and volunteers is provided.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Please see GVI website for cost details

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

18-65 years

This Program is open to

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

Typical Living Arrangements

• Dormitory
• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 10 volunteers plus field staff.

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Phone/Video Interview
• Written Application

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