Volunteer on construction projects in the Ecuadorian Andes

  Ecuador

• All Other Regions of Ecuador: 
Otavalo

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks and 2-4 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: Visit our website for upcoming start dates.

Description: This program is based in the indigenous communities surrounding Otavalo, bringing you into the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes. The Otavaleno indigenous hold remarkably strong ties to their native culture and traditions. Here you will embark on building energy efficient stoves with the families in the communities, which decrease wood consumption and remove smoke from inside the house.

How this program makes a difference:

Currently, families cook on open fires inside their homes, with smoke inhalation a daily occurrence, especially for the young children still draped over the mother's backs over the open fire. By building enclosed brick stoves with chimneys to take the smoke away, the air is cleaner. Also, due to the design, the stoves use less wood, leaving more time for work and study and less damage to the surrounding environment. Unofficial recent studies have also shown that the home is warmed by the stoves more so than the open fires, due to the slower-burning of the wood.

Highlights:
- Make a visible hands-on difference in the future of indigenous communities
- Get immersed in the local culture
- Experience and live amongst the beauty of the Andes
- Start and finish the stoves from scratch
- Receive one-on-one Spanish tuition
- Horseback riding available in the surrounding areas

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

Cost in US$: From USD 1,570 for 2 weeks

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18-65

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families and Individuals

Participants Travel to Ecuador Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups of Maximum 2 volunteers per community

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Job and Internship Network

Global Vision International's Mission Statement: Global Vision International aims to promote the advancement of sustainable development through the creation of partnerships, promotion of local and global education, opportunities and via direct financial support. GVI remains committed to its local partners by ensuring they receive full credit for any research undertaken or achievements reached.

Year Founded: 1998