Environmental Conservation in Costa Rica
Location
Costa Rica: Atenas
Description
World Endeavors offers an exciting program that allows participants to experience Costa Rica in a meaningful way while contributing to its future. Volunteer through helping the environment and study Spanish with World Endeavors in Atenas, Costa Rica.
Despite its small size Costa Rica is one of the most biologically diverse places on earth. Yet environmental degradation is a major threat to this unique and fragile place. Problems such as loss of bio-diversity, deforestation, desertification, soil erosion, over-fishing and pollution are significant. Environmental conservation projects address these issues directly through community education and collaboration.
Highlights
Atenas is a quaint town located in the central highlands roughly 45 minutes from the capital city of San Jose. The town of roughly 5,000 is made up of many surrounding communities that base their livelihood on growing coffee, oranges and mangos. Costa Rican history, tradition and culture are deeply rooted here. Atenas is very clean and picturesque with a laid-back atmosphere.
Upon arrival in Costa Rica, volunteers are met at the airport and taken to their host family's home in Atenas. They will receive an orientation that will familiarize them with Atenas and the surrounding area, the Costa Rican culture and their program. For placements of one-month or longer, participants will receive two weeks of Spanish language training.
Once the placement begins, participants will receive an additional mini-orientation at the project site that focuses on project opportunities and responsibilities. For those doing two to three week programs Spanish instruction may be added on to your program prior to leaving or on-site. For those doing 1 month programs additional Spanish instruction may be added as well.