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Volunteer Programs in Valparaiso, Chile

Valparaiso, located halfway down Chile’s coastline, is arguably the country’s most frenzied city, featuring endless hills, thousands of staircases along absurdly-angled streets, eclectic architecture, and unique seafaring traditions. Yet this Jewel of the Pacific also possesses an unexpected charm that will make volunteers fall in love. Whether you want to lend a hand at environmental conservation or help out with community development, the colorful views and ocean backdrop create the perfect environment to volunteer abroad. What are you waiting for? Volunteer in Valparaiso and change someone’s life!

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ISA Service-Learning in Valparaíso/Viña del Mar, Chile

Valparaíso and Viña del Mar are coastal sister cities 68 miles no...

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Exploring Ecuador: 2 month internship

by: Autumn Balcerak - United StatesProgram: International Internship Programs with Adelante Abroad
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Working for a civil engineering and architecture firm in Ecuador was the best way I could have spend the summer before my senior year of college. The program staff did a great job of preparing me for what my experience was going to be like abroad. My time in Ecuador stated with two weeks of one-on-one Spanish classes which dramatically improved my ability to speak the language. I lived with an Ecuadorian family which also helped improved my Spanish skills. My host mom cooked incredible traditional food and informed me on the best places to visit throughout my time. During my internship, I learned specific vocabulary necessary for working in a construction field, learned the differences between construction and engineering requirements in Ecuador and in the States, and learned how to communicate professionally in Spanish. I spent all of my weekends exploring different cities and places in Ecuador and learning more about their culture. These two months were an incredible experience and I cannot wait to return to Latin America.

A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Valparaiso

How to Volunteer in Valparaiso

Chile may be one of the most prosperous countries in South America, but that doesn’t mean its cities don’t need your help. Valparaiso is the land of a buena oda (good vibes), and its lovely people embrace volunteers with open arms. No matter how long you stay or how you choose to make a difference, you will be welcomed into a community that makes your feel immediately at home. 

Popular Causes. Throughout Chile, all youth are encouraged to become fully bilingual, so English teachers are in hot demand. For that reason, teaching English in primary and secondary schools is the most common volunteer placement in Valparaiso. Although you will need to know some Spanish in order to volunteer in a local school, many programs offer Spanish lessons in exchange for teaching. Other popular placements include youth development, environmental conservation, and healthcare.

Summer and short-term programs. Not every volunteer can spend months or years in a placement. If you want to volunteer abroad for a short-term program, consider a placement in an orphanage or joining an effort to preserve this coastal city. Placements can be short as two weeks, although the longer you stay, the bigger an impact you’ll make.

Long-term stints. For long-term volunteers abroad, the most popular placement is teaching. Every elementary and secondary school in Valparaiso teaches English as a second language, but most requirement a commitment of at least one semester, if not longer. If you have the time, consider volunteering abroad in a school where you’ll see major progress in little ones’ language skills, while improving your own Spanish language skills.

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