When I got back from my trip, I realized that the country needed many things that that I could help contribute! I began looking to volunteer and stumbled upon the web page for VOLUNTEERWORK LATINAMERICA. They organize volunteer placements in Latin America and have amazing opportunities such as volunteer projects in Peru, work holidays in Chile and volunteer projects in Argentina and other countries such as Ecuador.

As a nursing student, I liked the looks of the volunteer work in el Hospital Pediátrico Baca Ortiz in Quito, and I chose that volunteer project in Ecuador because I felt I had the necessary tools available to help to support children who have to spend a long time in the hospital away from their families, feeling alone, scared, and in pain.   It was hard to watch the children suffer alone because their parents were unable to visit them because they had to work or stay home to care for their other children.  This time I came alone for 3 months, and I worked at this project Monday thru Friday for a month and a half. 

In the hospital in Quito I mainly played with the kids, talked to them, and entertained them in general.  We would talk about why they were in the hospital, how long they had been there, and where they were from.  They would also tell me about their fears, many of the children were going to be operated on for the first time and had no idea how it would turn out.  I would explain to them what was going to happen during the procedure and help them to feel more relaxed and comfortable.   When we discussed their illnesses, I would try to educate them about adhering to their treatments and how to promote good health. Some children were so ill that they couldn’t go to play in the play room, so we would visit them in their rooms, bringing drawings and such, that they could paint and share with each other. 

This was a very emotional and life-enhancing experience. While as volunteers we were able to provide support for the children, I think we were also able to provide comfort during their stay. They also helped me to have a better relation with patient´s´ family members, which is fundamental for my professional career in the medical field.  The only bad part of the experience was that I got sick and had to leave early and was therefore unable to complete the program. However, the days that I worked, I gave my all.

For me, working as a volunteer in Ecuador filled my heart with love and happiness. I would absolutely do this again, it’s an unforgettable experience that I recommend to everyone! 

For more info, please write.

Medellin, which used to have the reputation as the most violent city when it was in the grips of Pablo Escobar’s drug cartel, is effectively rehabilitating its image since the dark 90’s. These days, the city is a fantastic place to visit and as safe and cosmopolitan as the rest of Latin American’s major cities. Of course, like any big city, there are parts that you’d rather avoid, and it’s generally advised to use your common sense and keep a low profile, i.e. not flaunting expensive jewelry or electronic gadgets when out and about.

However, in spite of all the progress, Medellin has not been able to cast off all its past challenges. There are still many children that are affected by poverty, addiction, violence and social exclusion. Volunteer Work Latin America, who has been offering volunteer placements to volunteer in Colombia for nearly a decade, is working closely together with a local community foundation that guides street children in Medellin with the process of acquiring the skills and belief to successfully integrate in society. This remarkable volunteer project in Medellin empowers children by removing barriers through participation in sports, recreational, cultural and educational activities.

To get a good idea of how the projects are run, watch this video of the children having fun at music class and playing football:

Several children who have participated in the programs are teenagers now and studying or have already finished their studies and are supporting their families. Due to the great popularity of the different programs, it is not always possible to invite everybody as the groups get too large.

With you as a volunteer in this project for streetkids in Colombia more children can participate in the activities of the foundation and therefore more children will have a chance of a better future. If you have any questions and are interested in supporting this professionally run volunteer project in Colombia, please contact VLA.

Additional info about the program can be found on the website, and previous blog entries: interview with the program director and a testimonial by a previous volunteer in Medellin.

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The story of an Aussie coaching Columbian kids… Find out more!

Soccer success for Colombian street kids…Find out more!

Preparation Tips for Volunteering…Find out more!

For most Latinos it is very much a religious holiday with families attending together the Misa de Gallo (Mass of the Rooster because it usually finishes at 1 am when the rooster announces the coming day). Christmas Eve or Noche Buena really is the time of giving, but many Latin American families also keep alive the Día de los Tres Reyes. Those children who have behaved themselves well will receive a second round of presents on January 6th from the Three Wise Men, just like they did after Jesus was born.

Besides all the similarities, there is great influence from the different indigenous people of the region and many Latin American cultures hang on to their own curiosities during Christmas time:

Chile
In Chile they do a toast with a monkey’s tail. Not what you might think, but the cola de mono is a traditional Christmas cocktail made with milk, coffee, sugar, cinnamon and brandy.  Father Christmas is known as Viejito Pascuero who wishes everyone a Feliz Navidad. And at New Year’s Eve they have the habit to burn huge dolls made out of old clothes, paper and wood with the fire supposedly eradicating all the bad and purifying the start of the New Year.

Peru
Predominantly in the indigenous regions of the country, it is not uncommon to see a roasted guinea pig (cuy) or suckling pig (lechón) on the menu instead of turkey. You can also witness retablos popping up everywhere; these artistically decorated portable altars are small wooden boxes depicting religious scenes such as the birth of Jesus surrounded by Andean pastors.

Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, models of Christ’s birthplace are no small clay figures known as pesebres to be placed under the Christmas tree but life-size effigies that fill a complete room, or stable in this case.

Dominican Republic
Here, Santa has competition in the form of la Vieja Belén. This mythical old lady comes around the Sunday after Día de Los Reyes to give humble but meaningful presents to children of poorer upbringings that didn’t receive much from Baby Jesus and the Three Wise Men. The gifts tend to be smaller because she is an old lady not able to carry heavy presents.

Guatemala
Saints are being paraded through the streets all year round, and Christmas is no exception except that God himself is the center point of attention. The white-bearded statue does, oddly, remind you of Santa Claus in the Western world. The extravagant processions are accompanied with loud jingles produced with chirimias flutes and marimbas.

Venezuela
It is custom that Venezuelan worshippers are being lifted from their bed in the very early hours with firecrackers and bell ringing to make them attend one of the posadas or carol services. When the children wake up on January 6th, they might find that the straw they had left beside their bed has been replaced by gifts left behind by the Magi and their camels and when they look in the mirror they should not wonder why they have a black smudge on their cheek; a sign that Balthazar, King of the Ethiopians has kissed them during their sleep.

Mexico
During Christmas Eve, the Mexican kids will be blindfolded and have a go at hitting a brightly decorated piñata that swings in the air at the end of a rope. Once it breaks all children jump up to gather the candy that was inside the piñata.

When the three wise men come around in January it is also time to part the Rosca de Reyes, a delicious oval sweetbread decorated with confectioned fruit and served along with regional fav’s such as corn tamales and hot chocolate. Hidden inside the Rosca is a plastic figurine of Baby Jesus. Each guest carefully cuts and inspects their slice (with the knife symbolizing the danger Jesus was in of being discovered by King Herod).  Whoever gets the baby figurine has to play host and invite everyone present to yet another celebration on February 2 known as Misa de Candelaria with more tamales and hot chocolate.

Argentina
Food is central during the family Christmas celebrations in Argentina. Mothers make different kinds of dishes such as roasted turkey and pork, stuffed tomatoes and mince pies. The table is also covered with sweet things such as puddings and a punch prepared with fruit pieces, juice and cider for the traditional brindis at midnight.

Probably the strangest phenomenon during Christmas in Latin America is to see Santa Claus wearing only silk clothes, or shorts and sandals. It is the height of summer in the Southern Hemisphere and good old Santa prefers to leave bikinis and beach volleyballs under the tree instead of woolen socks.

While people in Europe and North America find the glowing chimney the nicest place to gather, Latinos prefer the beach and outdoor barbeques and rather just ‘dream of a White Christmas’.

Volunteer Work Latin America will also make this Christmas a time of happiness and compassion for many children in need through the selfless commitment of our volunteers.  For more info contact us here!

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Working as a volunteer in Bolivia is for many the perfect answer. Volunteer Work Latin America arranges placements at an integrated child care center in a beautiful semi-rural valley surrounded by the red and green Andean mountains at only 15 km. from La Paz, capital of Bolivia.

The center, or “the Nursery” as Emma (one of the humble founders of the project) affectionately calls it, has caused a tremendous impact on the largely indigenous population, pulling them out of very vulnerable situations and social, economic and political exclusion. We have asked her a few questions about the project and the involvement of volunteers.

Can you explain your role in the organization?
The children’s Centre started in my home with 30 children. We now have a lovely purpose built children center with just under 90 children, between the ages of 6 months and 4 years that come to learn, to play and to be nurtured. Whilst I was very involved in the first two years raising and managing the project, the Centre is now run entirely by local women, many of them indigenous Aymara who wear the traditional bowler hats and wide skirts. My role is now mainly concerned with fundraising to ensure the sustainability of the project and coordinating the work of the volunteers to provide vital hands-on support in the classrooms and for the care of the children.

What was the inspiration behind this project?
The village had no child care facilities and many women had no alternative but to literally lock their children in the house, or leave them in the care of other young siblings in order to go out to work. This led to children being very exposed to accidents, abuse, hunger and malnutrition. For example one child was badly burnt as his 7 year old brother tried to heat water for lunch. When we started, over 70% of the children were undernourished too as their parents lacked the time, money and knowledge to provide them with regular nutritious meals.

How is the project run at present?
The Centre was designed and built by the local Mothers Club, and we hope to continue supporting the professional development of the 10 locally trained women called ‘tias’ who operate the Centre as well keep improving our attention to the children. The children’s Centre, located in green parkland at the heart of the community, is now a reference for community-led child empowerment with a focus on promoting the rights and culture of the local children. Together as a community we created a place that is inclusive, encouraging the poorest families to use our services also for children with special needs that no one else is willing to accept. That said the Centre is not to be simply a place where the families drop their children off and pick them up later in the day, but rather a place where they can also learn about nutrition, early education, rights and receive vocational training.

Could you give us some examples of the tasks assigned to volunteers?
Volunteers bring creativity and new ideas which inspire the local educators and their families. Volunteers in the past have done dance classes, music classes with homemade instruments and played games on the beautiful grounds of the Centre. Recently we have been donated baby-gym equipment which the children love, but this needs to be done with small groups which often are outside the scope of the teachers. With the older children the volunteers prepare activities which reinforce the learning goals each week in maths, language and social skills development. Volunteers also participate in the feeding and medical care programs, cultural activities and festivities, which happen with amazing frequency, often being pulled into traditional dance shows or to prepare the children to sing or perform in front of their parents and the wider community.

To continue reading more about the involvement of volunteers in this social project in Bolivia, click here for the rest of the interview.

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Briefly, what is your overall experience with volunteers?
We are constantly moved and inspired by the people who come to volunteer with us and share so freely their talents and time. The first week can often be overwhelming as hardly anyone speaks English and the children are all clamoring for your attention. But from experience we know that by the end of the second week, our volunteers feel very at home in the nursery and understand the routines and activities and realize that they are really being helpful. We recommend a minimum stay of 1 month, as too much change can unsettle the children and also the local staff. Actually, many of our volunteers choose to extend their stay as they see the true benefits of their presence in the nursery and for their study Spanish in Bolivia.

Where do you see the project going in the future? Is there an ultimate aim?
The local women in the nursery work tirelessly with many children. There is danger of them simply becoming exhausted or getting sick and we have no substitute teachers. Therefore, we seek to include more extracurricular excursions and creative activities not only for the children but also for the mothers and teachers, such as dance, aerobics, yoga and art. In addition, the continued support of the volunteers strengthens and motivates the women and relieves them of some of the pressure which comes from teaching and taking care of so many children alone. We also like to extend our activities to set up an after-school club for older children (5 years onwards) who have graduated from our nursery and who are now at school. As school finishes at midday, many of the children again are at risk as there is nobody at home to care for them or help them with school work. Our ultimate aim is to promote the rights of the children to reach their potential in a community which is committed to them thriving. 

To a potentially indecisive volunteer, what would you say about the social implications of volunteering in Bolivia?
We offer you the opportunity to come and experience Bolivia, the real Bolivia that tourists rarely see. Volunteering is ideal for people seeking to learn more about their world, and perhaps more about themselves, and their role in this society. Bolivia has taught us the true meaning of ‘reciprocidad’ which means reciprocity; a concept at the heart of Andean culture. It is all about giving back and contributing in a way that enriches both the person who is giving, and the person who is receiving, equally. Over the years, we have welcomed into our family and our community many volunteers, from all across the globe, and shared the joy of their discovery and growing sense of belonging. We see for ourselves how long lasting, and positive impacts they have on the lives of local people, who in turn, make sure the volunteers always carry their beautiful smiles in their hearts.

The Centre has been evaluated externally on two occasions since it opened by the municipal government – in both evaluations, it obtained some of the best scores for nurseries in the city of La Paz , scoring 90/100 in 2004 and 98/100 in 2005. The evaluations took into account the quality of education, security, hygiene, participation of parent committees and the nutritional status of the children. Volunteer Work Latin America describes the project as a leading example of social service excellence and empowerment, with a charitable but sustainable method rather than adopting just an outside-in solution to counter the oppression and poverty of indigenous people in Bolivia.

If you have become inspired to discover Bolivia and perhaps help the tias at this unique volunteer project in Bolivia, do not hesitate to contact us for more information!

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Social Projects in Bolivia Find out more!

Tips for working with children! (Part I)Find out more!

Tips for working with children! (Part II)Find out more!

• Learn some Spanish! Either study a bit before you come or take classes when you arrive. The ability to communicate with others is indispensable, wherever you are volunteering. This, along with a bit of country research, pays dividends as you will feel settled-in much faster. We can arrange for online Spanish lessons over Skype with some of most established Spanish Schools in South America. The teachers, from either Peru or Argentina, will be able to teach you some important verbs in a very intuitive manner and meanwhile you can get used to the accent!



• Keep in mind the reasons for volunteering; there may be times where things get a bit too much and have your reasons set clear will help you when you’re feeling low.
• Be realistic. You are only one person, unable to move worlds; but together as a team effort you can make a tremendous difference to the lives of the people you are helping. Your attitude is what counts.
• You’re all participating for the same reasons, and all working towards the same goal. Remember this whilst you work, and forge relationships with the people around you, whether they’re other volunteers, the project leaders or the local participants. If you can accomplish this, you’ll surely wake up looking forward to volunteering, and there is nothing better than an enthusiastic volunteer.



• Be open-minded. It sounds cliché, but things just don’t work the same here in Latin America. Schools aren’t as well equipped, and often things happen a lot slower! Especially when working with children be prepared for everything! Take into account that social situations here may be very different from yours at home. Be energetic, and come with a few activities ready for them, children’s songs from home, games etc.
• Know what you can expect by talking to past volunteers. In addition to asking our experienced staff, Volunteer Work Latin America can also put you in contact with volunteers that have worked at the same project before you, and are motivated to help you prepare for your time here.
• Be willing to learn! The more you learn, the more you can help in different ways. Work will vary daily and will include things you’ve probably never done before.
• Respect your surroundings. With regards to way you dress as well as taking photos. Many people in Latin America believe the eye of the camera yields bad luck; not all people do, but it’s worth asking before snapping away!



• Volunteering can sometimes be rather exhausting, so make sure you have time to yourself to relax and enjoy your surroundings. After all that is also one of the reasons you decided to participate in a volunteer project in South America.

Before you jump on that plane to Latin America, please take some time to read our resource page about health, travel guidelines and other preparative suggestions. Once you are volunteering you might find yourself in a state of culture shock, therefore prepare yourself by reading this page.

Of course your volunteer coordinator is always available, before, during and after your volunteer placement in South America for any question, problem or just for a chat!

You might also be interested in:

Tips for working with children! (Part I)Find out more!

Tips for working with children! (Part II)Find out more!

Top 10 Things to Bring on Your Volunteer TripFind out more!

Thanks to the help of our volunteers, 40 children living in extreme poverty now have a chance to enjoy recreational activities and get help with their homework, as well as receive a warm meal, medical attention and counseling to which they otherwise never would have access to. Volunteers are also invited to participate and organize weekend trips, fundraisers and family workshops.

In the two months that you live and volunteer in Peru at this social volunteer project you will get acquainted with an exceptionally friendly and noble culture. The following video gives you an impression of what life is like at the center:

Besides the charming city with its Inca Baths and many astonishing treks to choose from, there is also plenty to see and explore in the surrounding regions:

Kuelap
If you are adventurously inclined you should definitely visit the city of Chachapoyas, the capital of the Amazonas Region. The rather isolated Chachapoyas culture, also called the Warriors of the Clouds because of their fierce resistance to being subjugated by the Inca troops in the regions’ cloud forests, were also responsible for erecting Kuelap, a mighty fortress with more than 400 buildings and massive exterior walls of stone. These ancient ruins, known as the Machu Picchu of the north, receive very few visitors due to its remote location but are worth every single effort of getting there.

Trujillo
More tradition and history awaits you when traveling west to the warm and beautiful northwestern coastline of Peru. The colonial city of Trujillo is known as the cultural capital of Peru due to its many festivals (like the typical Marinera dance festival) and its close proximity to important archeological sites. Most famous are the Mochica Temples of the Sun and Moon made entirely out of mud, Huaca del Sol y de la Luna, and the iconic ruins of Chan Chan.

Chan Chan
This vast adobe brick complex is the largest Pre-Colombian city in South America and an absolute masterpiece of town planning. It holds many significant palaces and walls creating a labyrinth of passageways. The intrinsic and symbolic motifs on its facades only add to the exceptional splendor of what used to be the imperial capital of the Chimu civilization.

Royal Tombs of Sipan
In the last decades some extraordinary archaeological discoveries have been made a little further up the coast near Chiclayo. The notorious tombs were found intact and offer us a unique insight into the incredible affluence of the grand lord of the Moche civilization. In 1998 a new and fourth tomb has been revealed to the world and it has all the appearances that a new Valley of Kings is being unearthed, just as in Egypt.

Huanchaca
However, it is not only archeological talk of the day on the coast. Just visit the historic town of Huanchaca, also part of the Moche Route or Ruta Moche but famous for being a surfer’s paradise with beautiful beaches and a wonderful sunny climate. Here you can also catch an exciting ride on of the caballitos de totora, the ancient fishing rafts dating back to a time of over 3000 years ago, and taste some exquisitely prepared ceviche, the addictive seafood dish of Peru.

So, if you love to learn more about the fascinating cultural heritage of North Peru, which is still evidenced in the people of today, than we invite you to volunteer in Cajamarca. The great majority of the locals do not benefit from tourism and their only hope for a better future is your vital aid to the program.

Contact us if you like to receive more info regarding the requirements, accommodation and our Lima Welcome package. VLA is there to arrange everything from A – Z.

Prepare to be amazed!

At 2,850 meters altitude the city is referred to as the crown of the Andes, not only because it is the highest capital in the world but also due to its rich colonial heritage. An endless number of monuments, manor houses and religious abbeys filled with sparkling golden altars take up a big part of the best preserved old city center of Latin America, with the snow white cathedral on the plaza Grande as its majestic flagship.

While the rest of the city, in its own sympathetic way has remained through and through South American with street musicians and vendors trading fresh produce everywhere, has globalization set in through the back doors of "La Mariscal". Here, in Ecuador’s biggest entertainment quarter, which seems to consist of solely bars, restaurants and clubs a fascinating vibe is going on from global backpacker influences blending in with the trendy ethnic scene.

Despite of its worldly appearance and the big hearts of the helpful population of Quito, there are many that lack even in even the most basic needs. There is no denying in the fact that a huge gap between rich and poor continues to exist. This is also not easy to overcome when 1.9 million city dwellers (or perhaps 3 million considering the growth by the minute further into a narrow stretch beyond the horizon) have to try and live together in this metropolis in one of South America’s developing countries.

Volunteer Work Latin America programs include volunteer work at a day care center or primary school of your choice and accommodation at our international residence. Here you will live together with other volunteers and students of our partner Spanish school in Quito.

After your rewarding time volunteering in the city, being immersed in Ecuadorian culture, you are completely set to explore all the rest that this small republic has to offer. To get your imagination flowing, think only of the lush tropics in the east, the bizarre volcano world of the Sierra and last but not least: the prehistoric animal kingdom on the Galapagos Islands! 

For more information about volunteering in Ecuador follow this link, and of course, you can always contact us for an overview of the many volunteer projects in Quito we have to offer!

The Spanish language course consists of 20 lesson hours per week and is held in a group environment and based on a total immersion model with a lot of practical fieldtrips. The native teachers focus on quickly teaching you the necessary vocabulary and conversational skills enabling you to communicate while volunteering, even if you arrive as a complete beginner. You may also decide to study Spanish for a week in one of the other locations offered by the language institute, in the beautiful and peaceful Sacred Valley of the Incas or the sensational Tambopata Reserve part of the Amazon jungle.

You may choose to volunteer in Peru at any of our selected volunteer projects in Cusco, including after school projects, kindergartens and physical or mental rehabilitation homes for adults or children, clinics, primary schools or a sports institution. The activities can vary greatly and could include teaching English, inspiring creativity and helping children with their homework, organizing sport games, providing medical assistance or anything that occurs to you benefiting and assisting the project. We only ask for a high motivation and a commitment of 4 – 6 hours daily.

During your volunteer placement, you are also invited to attend the specially designed Spanish classes for volunteers once a week. This will allow you to rehearse your Spanish even more in an informal environment.

While studying and volunteering you can choose to stay at a local guest family or at the very popular student residence at the Spanish school in Cusco, right next to the central plaza, counting with wonderful sunny terraces and areas to relax. Breakfast and a traditional Peruvian lunch are also included every day.

In your spare time, different cultural workshops, lectures and hikes in the surrounding areas will be organized and the volunteers are welcome to join the free activities held at the school, such as cooking, traditional music and entertaining salsa lessons. There is also plenty of free time to explore the city and its surroundings, including the impressive Lost City and one of the 7 modern wonders of the world: Machu Picchu!

Volunteer experience abroad and a basic apprehension of the Spanish language look great on a resume. Peru is a beautiful country, however if you prefer to go somewhere else, it is good to know that Volunteer Work Latin America offers similar programs in almost all countries in Latin America. The constant and professional support through our local multilingual volunteer coordinators will guarantee a successful participation under sometimes challenging circumstances.

Contact us for a current list of volunteer projects and get ready for your study & work abroad experience!

While enjoying the turquoise waters stretching as far as the eye can see, it’s an absolute must to hop over to the close by Bay Islands. A true diver’s paradise, with the world’s second largest living coral reef surrounding the isles of Roatan, Utila and Guanaja, it also offers superb snorkeling, kayaking and excellent lazing on palm beaches with sand white as a snow!

Another huge priority on every Central America travellers’ list is the fascinating ruins of Copán. This thousand years old site is considered to be one of the most artistically advanced and detailed of all ancient Mayan cities. 

When environment and history are your passions, then our Honduras volunteer project not far away from the ruins, is a dream come true! Together with your fellow volunteers and the locals, you will be working daily in the beautiful nature to help protect the environment with reforestation and conservation activities.

Have a wonderful holiday in Honduras, exploring its many idyllic wonders, while working to keep them that way!

For more information about Copan’s ecological volunteer project click here, or contact us for more info!