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.

Travel Types

• Environmental Studies

Qualifications

Volunteers must have: English language fluency, a desire to help the people of Costa Rica, flexibility, self-motivation, an openness to a new culture and a willingness to learn. Spanish language skills are helpful but not required.

Intern Types

• Environmental Management
• Environmental Studies

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

Please see our website.

Program Fees Include:

- Volunteer placement
- Pre-departure packet to prepare you for your placement
- World Endeavors support for any of your pre-trip questions
- Accommodations (3 meals per day with a local family)
- Support from local World Endeavors representatives
- 2 weeks of Spanish language training (for programs 4 weeks and longer)
- Cultural activities (cooking class; dance class)
- 24X7 Emergency phone support
- Travel medical insurance

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

World Endeavors volunteers are people from all backgrounds who are looking for a life-changing experience abroad. Our participants are of all ages and come from countries around the world. We seek to match volunteers to projects that best suit their interests and abilities in order to maximize their experience and their impact on their project.

Age Range

18+. Younger volunteers accepted by application.

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Written Application
• Resume
• Phone/Video Interview

World Endeavors's Mission Statement

World Endeavors is a provider of unique international volunteer, internship, and study programs. Our mission is to become a catalyst for positive change in our community and the world through quality international programs.