Quick Facts
Program code
EC-VOL108
Category
Volunteer Work, Education, Child Care
Country
Ecuador
Location
Quito
Program start
Any time, with flexible start and end dates, year round, except between December 23 and January 1, and in August.
Minimum duration
2 weeks
Minimum age
17 years
Contact us
Happy to help you
(+1) 954 762 7607
(+56) 9 7516 9816
(+49) 7735 425 339
skype: chileinside
8 am - 4 pm EST
Program details
This volunteer project in Ecuador was established to care for the children of low-income indigenous families who moved to Quito in search of a better life.
Unfortunately, many ended up having the same situation or worse than in their previous communities. The parents have to work full-time at the markets, so they cannot care for their children during the day.
To avoid bringing the children to the market or leaving them unattended at home or on the streets, the day care centers offer children a safe and caring environment. Volunteers are placed in different day care centers that all belong to an initiative of the city’s Development Center.
Volunteering there is a great way to help people in difficult economic situations. The children at the centers range from infancy to six years old. The project’s main objective is to offer them comprehensive and supportive care, assuring that their educational, nutritional, and psychological needs are met.
Despite the lack of resources, including pedagogic materials, the institution has managed to create a friendly and nurturing environment for the children to enjoy.
If you love children and wish to contribute to their well-being, this volunteer work project is perfect for you! This is your chance to make a lasting difference in the lives of Ecuadorian children from low-income families.
Tasks
Working with children is one of the most fulfilling jobs! Volunteers help with daily chores, such as cleaning, playing and feeding the children. They also interact with them through song, dance, and games, while providing important life lessons like good manners and hygiene. Volunteers also teach basic skills like counting, sports, as well as recreational and outdoor activities. As a volunteer, you will have the chance to interact with the kids by organizing games and other entertaining activities. Taking initiative and being creative are important skills to have in this kind of work. Most volunteers are touched by the simplicity and humility of the children, who are often happy with just a hug and some one-on-one attention.
The work schedule is flexible and will be set between you, the day care center, and our volunteer coordinator in Quito, giving you the chance to make the most of your time abroad. Please keep in mind that the centers’ resources are limited, and you may have to face difficult situations.
Please be respectful and responsible in your workplace, and keep in mind that you are a role model for these children! This volunteer project aims to instil important values in children such as care, respect, and love for learning. You will experience the unconditional love that children can give and the pure happiness they show when they see you every day.
If possible, volunteers can bring some materials for the children to work with (toys, workbooks, writing/drawing materials, etc.). It does not have to be expensive and regardless of the contribution, it will help immensely and give the children more alternatives for activities. Materials can be found at very low prices within the city of Quito.
Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.
Accommodation
The best way to learn about Ecuadorian culture and customs, and even to practice your Spanish skills, is to live in a homestay. One of the top priorities of our volunteer programs in Ecuador is full cultural immersion, so accommodation is offered at local homestays in Quito. Our hosts have been carefully selected and have many years of experience hosting foreign volunteers.
Volunteers will have a private bedroom or share it with another volunteer. The bathroom is also private or shared. If you want to secure a single room for your own, there is a surcharge.
The volunteer program includes daily breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Special diatry requirements can be taken care of.
Location
Quito is located in the Andean highlands at around 2850 meters above sea level. Therefore, despite the proximity to the equator, it is moderately warm all year round with an average temperature of approx. 13 °C. During the day, the temperatures reach between 20 and 25 °C. There are rainy seasons from September to November and from January to April, it usually rains around noon and then the sun shines again.
Quito is not only located in a great setting, right under the Pichincha volcano and offers a pleasant climate, but there are also cultural treasures: Built in the 16th century on the ruins of an ancient Inca city, Quito has the best preserved historical center in all of Latin America. For this reason, Quito was the first city in the world to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Quito also offers a lively nightlife, traditional markets, interesting museums and theaters as well as festivals of various kinds at certain times. Outdoor fans will love day trips to the surrounding Andean landscapes!
Language skills
Spanish at communication level. For optimal preparation for your volunteer work in Ecuador, we advise you to take a Spanish course before the program starts. This gives you the opportunity to slowly get used to the language, culture and mentality.
You can book your Spanish course in Ecuador directly with us!
Requirements
- Spanish skills (book your Spanish course in Ecuador!)
- Minimum age 17 years
- Application at least 4 weeks before the desired start of the program. Read more about our application process here.
- Completion of a foreign travel health insurance (get your travel health insurance here!)
Pre-departure and in-country support
Before arrival, our experienced team will be at your disposal to assist you throughout the booking process and travel planning. With the booking confirmation you will receive our 24-hour emergency number, so that you can reach us 24/7 in case of emergency.
In addition to the assistance given by our office staff you will be supported by the program coordinators based in Quito in Ecuador.
Costs & Services
Our volunteer program with children in Ecuador includes:
- Single or twin room in a homestay*
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Advice from our experienced staff
- On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
- Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
- Your placement in the volunteer project
- Pre-departure information
- Packing list
- Country handbook
- Intercultural guide
- Orientation upon arrival
- On-site volunteer coordinator
- 24/7 emergency number
- Advice on travel insurance
- Certificate of participation
Costs
Application fee: US$ 150
Program fee: US$ 760 (minimum stay 2 weeks)
Extra week: US$ 170
*surcharge for single room US$ 35/week.
Additionally, you can book:
- Airport pick-up in Quito US$ 40
- Spanish course in Ecuador
- Spanish courses in Latin America
- Travel Health Insurance
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Volunteer Guide
Find valuable information about volunteering abroad in our program guides. Find out about all the benefits, possibilities and challenges, that a stay abroad offers you. Read more about the great opportunities that South America Inside has at your disposal.
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