Description

Volunteer abroad in Ecuador! We offer volunteer programs teaching English and other subjects in Ecuador. In recognition of the importance of learning English, the Ecuadorian government requires English to be taught in the schools, but there are not enough qualified teachers. International Volunteers works with pre-schools, primary schools, middle schools and high schools throughout Ecuador to link the schools with international volunteers to teach English and assist with other subjects such as math, science, extra curricular activities and sports.

Volunteers will provide a much needed service as well as experience the learning opportunity of a lifetime. Working directly with Ecuadorian students will give volunteers the the chance to learn about many of the issues Ecuadorians face every day and a deep understanding of Ecuadorian culture. International volunteers also provide Ecuadorian students with the unique experience of getting to know a foreigner and serve as mentors and role models to the students.

Teaching opportunities are available in towns throughout the country including Quito, Mindo, Salinas, Puerto Lopez, the Galapagos, Lago Agrio, Puyo, Otavalo, Ambato and more. In the Andes and Amazon, the school year starts in September and runs until the end of May and on the coast and in the Galapagos, the school year starts in April and runs through December.

Highlights

Experience the incredible beauty and culture of Ecuador 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 development issues Ecuador is facing. Participants have plenty of time to explore the country during the weekends. Ecuador has four distinct regions with almost endless possibilities for adventure.

* The Ecuadorian Andes are some of the most dramatic mountains in the world dotted with small towns, clear lakes, and home to a vibrant and a wide array of microclimates ranging from semi arid highlands to cool, moist cloud forests.
* The Amazonian region is one of the most biologically diverse regions on the planet.
* The coast of Ecuador is one of the poorest regions but also home to pristine beaches and sleepy fishing villages.
* The Galapagos Islands are home to some of the most exotic wildlife in the world and a stunning natural history lesson in action.

Volunteers are enthusiastically welcomed by the communities they work in and often form long lasting relationships with the people they meet in Ecuador.

Qualifications

Participants in the Ecuador programs must speak Spanish at an intermediate level or higher and be prepared to live and work in a Spanish speaking environment. We are happy to arrange language lessons to complement the program. Teaching volunteers must be prepared to plan and lead classes. Participants should also be flexible, adaptable and open to experiencing a new culture. Participants should also be prepared with some teaching materials.

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

Costs vary. Please contact us for details.

Cost Includes:

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

Program Fees Include:

Program Fee Includes:
* Pre-departure information
* Pick up from the airport in Quito
* Orientation
* City tour
* Volunteer Position
* Accommodation
* Breakfast and Dinner each day
* 24/7 emergency service

Program Fee Does Not Include:
* Round Trip Airfare
* Return Trip to Airport
* Required Travel and Medical Insurance
* Travel Within Ecuador

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

18+

This Program is open to

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

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Resume
• Written Application

International Volunteers's Mission Statement

International Volunteers is the volunteer branch of ELI Abroad, a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization, founded in 2001, that partners with organizations from around the world making a difference in their communities. We work closely with these groups to ensure that our volunteers get meaningful experiences at reasonable prices. We have something for everyone: whether you want to teach in Ghana, work in an orphanage in Nepal, animal rescue in the rainforest of Ecuador, medical clinic in South India, or study in a university in Buenos Aires.

Year Founded

2001