GoAbroad

Volunteer Coordinator in Rural Ecuador

by El Terreno

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group photo of El Terreno team
No CostsProgram Costs
VerifiedProvider
5.0 / 5Overall Rating
1Review
2021Year established

Program Overview

Want to use your coordination skills to help create something meaningful? This position is for you! Manage a volunteer program that maintains a thriving cultural exchange center in the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes. Coordinate and help with the cooking and chores around the center to create a clean, welcoming space for visitors and locals to live and work. Join us in supporting those who serve the community!

Work 25-35 hours a week (Mon-Fri) based on your choice: 5 hours/day with a $25 weekly contribution to cover utilities, or 7 hours/day at no cost.

Activities (25 volunteer hours per week, Monday to Friday):
Coordinate and train new volunteers.
Help with cooking, cleaning & chores around the center.
Implement strategies promoting a clean and welcoming space.
Write procedures to help with the implementation of the volunteer program.
Evaluate your success and add your valuable experience to your resume.

You will also have the chance to explore Ecuador’s incredible diversity — from the Amazon rainforest to the Galápagos Islands — during weekends, or before and after your stay.

Ready to dive deeper into this program?

Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.

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Program Highlights

Use your coordination skills to help build, maintain, and run a community space where visitors and locals work on sustainable development projects.
Experience traditional indigenous culture: language, clothing, markets, music, food, buildings, and ways of life!
Get to know the warm local people of Ecuador and improve your Spanish with them; they are always keen to chat.
Strengthen your leadership skills and build friendships with international volunteers and interns.
Experience Ecuador's huge diversity in only an hour's drive—hike in the mountains, bird watch in the jungle, and explore colonial villages.

What's Included

No Inclusions
Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
Wifi Costs
Some Meals / Partial Meal Plan
On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
Letter of Recommendation

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 Solo, Couples

Education Levels & Language

  • Language
  • English
  • Education
  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Home-stays

Application Procedures

  • Online Application
  • Phone/Video Interview
  • Resume

Age Requirement

18+

Duration

  • 3-6 Months

Starts At

No Costs

Salary & Compensation

For 25 hours of work a week we provide you the following: Comfortable dormitory accommodation Cooked Lunches Monday-Friday Essential amenities (bed...

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about El Terreno

5.0
1 review

Rating breakdown

5
1
4
0
3
0
2
0
1
0

Top categories

Volunteer Placement
5.0
Program Administration
5.0
Living Situation
5.0
Community Engagement
5.0
Health & Safety
5.0
Day to Day Life
5.0

Participated in this program? Share your experience now.

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Showing 1 of 1 review

KasperAugust 2022

A true Ecuadorian experience

was a volunteer and intern coordinator from May to July 22'. The peaceful solitude of the mountain village of Antandahua and with companionship of other volunteers, is a great place to not only help the community, but also help yourself gain inward perspective. We went through a 3 week 'Paro'. This consisted of road blocks and political demonstrations from the indigionous factions. The last day we cooked dinner on the outside firewood stove, because like everybody else were out or gas. The beautiful thing is, that during the Paro we were safe, because of our connections with and contributions to the community we live. If you or your family are concerned about safety, this is probably one of the safest places in South America. The location is also a good Basecamp in the middle of Ecuador, to explore other places in the 3-day long weekend. You will have your own unique experiences here, because you will be met with open arms and probably leave in tears.

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is the duration of the programme?

The internship lasts a minimum of 12 weeks. 

What kind of attitude do you look for in interns?

As an organisation 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, can work to deadlines, and takes pride in their work — all this 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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