Volunteer Programs in Valparaiso, Chile

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.