Situated in a stunning area of Ecuador, this program offers volunteers a fantastic opportunity. Living with a local family in the beautiful market town of Otavalo, you will be travelling to the nearby rural mountains to volunteer with children, learn Spanish and experience the indigenous Andean culture.

GVI are working with the leaders of the indigenous communities on educational programs that will provide educational reinforcement and the opportunity to receive a formal education that many of the children and adults would not otherwise have. These long-term placements greatly aid the development of the children, providing them with much needed continuity and assistance. Two weeks off are scheduled every three months, to give volunteers a chance to relax and explore more of Ecuador and other areas of South America.

How this program makes a difference:

With just one or two teachers per school, the volunteers’ teaching presence allows the children more opportunity to receive help in their education. GVI Secondary School scholarships allow the children to follow on into Secondary which was not possible before. A substantial part of the fee goes towards the day-to-day running costs of the projects themselves throughout the year, including daily transport, food subsidies for the school meals and fruit for the children (sometimes their only meal of the day), educational materials for classes, monthly birthday celebrations, painting and maintenance.

Highlights:

• Live in the heart of the community in Otavalo
• Work with indigenous children
• Learn Spanish
• Adventure side trips
• Take cultural workshops and excursions
• Amazing community interaction

Qualifications:

No special training or qualifications are required as all training will be provided in the field.