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Cooking & Family Nutrition

group photo of El Terreno team
$100-300Program Costs
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2021Year established

Program Overview

In rural communities near Guaranda, child malnutrition affects nearly half of young children, causing stunted growth and impaired development. Diets heavy in starches and low in proteins and vegetables, combined with poor water quality and hygiene, worsen the problem. Traditional Andean superfoods are being replaced by processed foods.

As an intern or volunteer in the Cooking & Family Nutrition program, you will work with schools, nurseries, and the local health center to deliver hands-on cooking workshops, nutritional education, and hygiene training. You will help revive traditional foods, support young mothers, and promote healthier family diets and safer water practices.

This rewarding placement offers practical experience in community nutrition and health education while helping break cycles of malnutrition and supporting stronger, healthier families in the Ecuadorian Andes.

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Program Highlights

Deliver hands-on cooking workshops and nutritional education to combat child malnutrition in rural Andean communities.
Revive traditional Andean superfoods and promote healthier family diets, food hygiene, and safe water practices.
Work directly with young mothers, schools, and local health centers to support better nutrition and child development.
Gain practical experience in community nutrition, public health education, and culturally relevant cooking skills.
Make a tangible difference to family health and help build stronger foundations for the next generation in the beautiful Ecuadorian Andes.

What's Included

Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
Some Program Activity Costs
Wifi Costs
Some Meals / Partial Meal Plan
Group Meals
Some Equipment
On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
Pre-Departure Orientation
In-Country Orientation
Academic Advising
Letter of Recommendation
Certificate of Completion
Emergency Support
Internship Placement
Training

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Guaranda, Ecuador

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered
  • Year Round

Eligible Nationalities

  • All Nationalities
  • This Program is also open to Couples, Families, Group

Education Levels & Language

  • Language
  • English
  • Spanish
  • Education
  • University Freshman (1st Year)
  • University Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • University Junior (3rd Year)
  • University Senior (4th Year)
  • University 5th Year or More

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Home-stays

Application Procedures

  • Online Application
  • Phone/Video Interview

Age Requirement

18+

Duration

  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 3-6 Months
  • Summer
  • Winter
  • Spring
  • 1-3 Months
  • Fall

Starts At

$100-300

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about El Terreno.

How much does the Cooking & Family Nutrition program cost?

The cost of the Cooking & Family Nutrition program is $250 per week.

What is the duration of the program?

The program lasts a minimum of 4 weeks.

Who can apply for the Cooking & Family Nutrition program?

Open to both volunteers and interns, the Cooking & Family Nutrition program is for university students, recent graduates, and professionals from around the world.

What kind of attitude do you look for in participants?

As an organization committed to a community-based approach, we search for ethically minded participants who share our vision for a more vibrant, prosperous, and sustainable world. An ideal participant is passionate, proactive, able to meet deadlines, and takes pride in their work — all while desiring to step outside of their comfort zone, build authentic relationships, and become a member of our international community.

Is it safe to stay in Guaranda and Atandahua?

Yes! El Terreno is based in a peaceful rural community where people know and support each other. The region is considered very safe, and Atandahua even has its own local police station. There have been no security incidents involving our interns or community members since our start in 2021. We also maintain close partnerships with local authorities and provide 24/7 on-site support to ensure all participants feel safe and welcome.

Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

Community Choice Award
Community Choice Awards 2024 Winner
Top Rated Host
Trusted Provider

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