The view from the top of Connor’s host family’s apartment building
What about volunteering abroad attracted you?
I have been traveling on and off over the past year and decided it was time to give back along my adventure. I felt lucky to have the privilege and opportunity to travel, so I thought I might as well try to help others along the way.
What made you choose Ecuador as your volunteer abroad destination?
I knew I wanted to go to South America, and started doing research on different countries and areas to go to. I love the beach, so I wanted to be able to access the beach on the weekends or head there when my volunteering was over. I found the UBECI program and after doing some research on Quito, and I decided it was the right choice for me. It was a pretty random choice, but I’m glad I went with it!
A fishing boat bringing in the day’s catch in Canoa, Ecuador
What was your favorite part about Quito?
The friendliness of the people and the relaxed vibe that Quito had even though it was a major city. Quito seemed to have a slower pace of life than most major cities in the United States, which I enjoyed thoroughly. Most people on the street said “hello” as you walked past them, and everyone smiled. I also loved the breathtaking views that Quito offered no matter where you were located in the city. The views of the snow-capped mountains were something I will not soon forget.
What type of accommodation did you have during your time in Quito? What was the best part about it?
I lived with a host family in a small apartment building with between three and five other volunteers. I was traveling alone, so this allowed me to meet people starting on day one. It was simple arrangements, but had more than everything I needed. The host family was incredible and made the best meals for us each day.
The best part about living with a host family was being able to put my broken Spanish to use and getting a better feel for the culture and people of Quito.
A view from on top of the Basilica in Quito, Ecuador
What is the most memorable experience you have from volunteering abroad?
Working alongside the full-time staff at the small non-profit UBECI was awe-inspiring. These people have dedicated their lives to the children, and the children look up to them like superheroes. The staff always showed up with enthusiasm and what seemed like endless amounts of energy to keep up with the kids. It is easy for the volunteers who are there for only a few weeks or months to maintain their eagerness to help, but to watch a staff member that is there day in and day out maintain that level of commitment and vigor was my most memorable experience.
What advice would you give to others interested in volunteering in Ecuador?
Keep an open mind and be ready to help. Volunteering is a different type of vacation, but if done with the right attitude is extremely rewarding. You will never regret deciding to volunteer instead of a cushy vacation in the same town, as it won’t let you truly experience an area. Also, brush up on simple Spanish terms to get by, as most people in the country speak primarily Spanish.
These kids will always hold a special place in Connor’s heart!
What are the top reasons you'd want to go back to Ecuador if you had the chance?
The number one reason would be the kids. In my two weeks as a volunteer for UBECI, I felt I learned as much from these beautiful children as I tried to teach them. They always looked at the positive side of things, and always found a way to make you smile.
The second reason would be the food! The typical Ecuadorian meal is delicious and comes with probably the best juice your taste buds will ever experience.
How have your experiences Ecuador impacted your life?
I have always been an avid traveler, but his was the first time I have decided to volunteer for some part of my trip. I was traveling for a total of two months, and volunteered for only two weeks of it. If I had to go back, I would have volunteered for much longer. I doubt I will ever go on another trip without having some sort of volunteer aspect involved in my travels. I didn’t realize how easy it was to give back while you’re traveling. My initial hesitation was pretty selfish, and I thought it might be a burden to be volunteering while I decided to take time off of work. After the two weeks of volunteering, I realized I was dead wrong and should have signed up for a longer time to volunteer.
What did you enjoy doing outside of your volunteer placement?
Many mornings before the volunteer program started I would try to run around the park near my host family’s apartment. Sometimes it was hard to get out of bed so early, but always worth the extra effort. In the mornings, I would pass parents dropping off their kids at school, people walking their dogs, young couples walking their newborn in a stroller, and other joggers who had woken up early to enjoy the first light as well. People were happy in the morning and everyone smiled and waved as they passed. I was one of the only Americans, or “gringos”, around the park this time of day, but I never felt like an outsider.
Where do you think your next trip abroad will take you? Do you plan on volunteering abroad again?
I love traveling, but really anywhere I go, I plan on volunteering. I am an avid surfer, so most of my trips have to have some sort of mini surf trip involved. My next trip is taking me to Indonesia, so I will be looking at different ways to volunteer over there!
