Description

This community-based organization gives children that are suffering from physical or psychological abuse a temporary place to live while the parent(s) undergo counseling or treatment. If the domestic situation cannot improve, the children are moved to a permanent orphanage in San Jose with the hopes of future adoption. The center focuses on giving them necessary interim counseling as well as providing them with an atmosphere of love and support.

Volunteers will work directly with the children in the center by organizing games, recreational activities, arts and handicrafts, acting classes, and academic tutoring sessions. Volunteers are also encouraged to be creative and to bring any of their own personal skills to work with the children. New workshops or ideas are always helpful!

The project is located in the town of Turrialba in the Cartago province, about 2 hours southeast of San Jose by bus.

Highlights

- Homestay with a carefully screened, welcoming host family.
- Three meals daily.
- Support of friendly, experienced staff in the US and in Costa Rica.
- Comprehensive accident and medical insurance.
- 24 hour emergency support.

Qualifications

Spanish skills are very desirable and helpful but not necessary. Experience or education in counseling, teaching and/or childcare is helpful, but not required.

Languages

• Spanish

Cost in US$:

USD1,150 and up

Cost Includes:

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

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

Greenheart Travel volunteers are flexible and caring people who are interested in an authentic exchange experience.

Age Range

18 and up

This Program is open to

American and Canadian Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Application Process Involves

• Written Application

Greenheart Travel's Mission Statement

Greenheart Travel is a division of the Center for Cultural Interchange. Founded in 1985, the Center for Cultural Interchange (CCI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of cultural understanding, academic development and world peace. Greenheart is CCI's way of promoting the health and welfare of the earth and its people through cultural exchange, ethical travel, responsible consumerism, and community service.

Year Founded

1985