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Volunteer Programs in El Salvador

Roughly the size of Massachusetts, El Salvador is a small country with a lot of big things going on, providing a number of opportunities to volunteer in El Salvador. Juxtaposed with its scenic landscape of over 300 rivers, El Salvador is currently experiencing a number of social problems, which unfortunately includes gang violence. Since the end of the Salvadoran Civil War in 1992, there have been many periods of fluctuating violence throughout the country. Although this has detracted from the influx of international tourists, it acts as a call to action for those looking to volunteer abroad in El Salvador, especially those interested in social welfare projects.

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7 Volunteer Programs in El Salvador

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
9.6534 reviews

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with awa...

Volunteer World
8.7512 reviews

Volunteer World

Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find ...

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The Fuller Center for Housing
00 reviews

The Fuller Center for Housing

Global Builders - El Salvador: Build Alongside Locals

A Global Builders trip to El Salvador gives the opportunity to he...

Fundación La Niñez Primero
00 reviews

Fundación La Niñez Primero

Volunteer Abroad with Fundacion La Niñez Primero

Choose between 2 volunteer program activities: Hospital Playgrou...

Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos
00 reviews

Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos

Volunteer in Latin America for a Year with NPH

Volunteers are accepted for specific roles in NPH service countri...

Habitat for Humanity International
00 reviews

Habitat for Humanity International

Volunteer Abroad with Habitat for Humanity's Global Village

Embark on a transformative journey with Habitat for Humanity’s Gl...

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Latest Program Reviews

Time for what I like doing most and also my work

by: Bakare Gbolahan - NigeriaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
9

This an increasingly popular way for individuals to make a meaningful impact in communities around the world. With numerous organizations offering volunteer programs, it's essential to review and research these opportunities to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. *Pros:* 1. *Cultural Immersion*: Living and working with local communities provides an immersive cultural experience. 2. *Skill Development*: Volunteers can develop new skills and gain experience in areas such as teaching, conservation, and community development. 3. *Networking Opportunities*: Volunteers can connect with like-minded individuals from around the world. 4. *Personal Growth*: Volunteering abroad can be a transformative experience, fostering personal growth and self-awareness. *Cons:* 1. *Cost*: Many volunteer programs come with a hefty price tag, which can be a barrier for some. 2. *Safety Concerns*: Volunteers may face safety risks, such as health concerns or political instability, depending on the destination. 3. *Cultural Differences*: Adapting to local customs and way of life can be challenging for some volunteers. 4. *Quality of Programs*: Some volunteer programs may lack structure, support, or meaningful work, leading to a disappointing experience. *Recommendations:* 1. *Research Thoroughly*: Investigate the organization, program, and destination to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. 2. *Read Reviews*: Look for reviews from past volunteers to gain insight into the program's quality and challenges. 3. *Choose a Reputable Organization*: Select an organization with a proven track record, transparent policies, and adequate support for volunteers. 4. *Prepare Yourself*: Culturally, emotionally, and physically prepare yourself for the experience to ensure a smooth transition. By being aware of the pros and cons, doing thorough research, and choosing a reputable organization, volunteers can have a safe, rewarding, and life-changing experience abroad.

A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in El Salvador

Locations

There are two main mountain ranges in El Salvador that comprise about 85 percent of the country, which meet in the middle to create a central plateau. The central plateau is where the capital city of San Salvador is located, along with its neighboring cities. The remainder of the country is referred to as the Pacific lowlands. There are a handful of major towns and cities across the country, so it is possible to volunteer in El Salvador in a number of locations.

San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, is also the largest city in the country and provides the largest number of volunteer opportunities. The most common types of volunteer placements in San Salvador include public schools, family shelters, and orphanages. Volunteering in San Salvador is the best way for volunteers to positively affect communities in the most significant way, based on the sheer number of people living within the city. The city of San Salvador is small geographically, roughly 28 square miles, but it is dense, with a population of over 570,000 people.

Santa Ana is the nation’s second largest city, and is home to many teaching volunteer opportunities. Santa Ana is much more spread out than San Salvador, but has a much smaller population. The city is surrounded by a number of mountain ranges that give way to more rural areas. The top industries in the city are retail and manufacturing, specifically the processing of coffee beans. Santa Ana is in close proximity to some national parks and small rural towns, allowing volunteers to get the best of both an urban and rural environment.

There are also many opportunities to volunteer in the rural areas of El Salvador. These towns are typically fairly spread out from one another, and located within mountainous regions, making for a very secluded volunteer experience. Placements, such as farming and agriculture, not typically found in the cities are more commonly available in rural areas, but programs run on a much smaller scale. Volunteering in El Salvador’s rural areas will give volunteers the chance to create more personal relationships with locals and immerse more fully in a local community.

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