Agricultural Placements in Guatemala

  Guatemala

Rural Areas

Term: Throughout the year 
Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: throughout the year

Description: ELI works with a variety of programs to help address the country's agricultural needs. ELI's programs strive to assist poor communities in rural regions throughout the country through education and vocational training. We work with local groups who teach responsible practices and sustainability. Volunteers may help at large education centers, or work with small local eco-communities. Locals receive education and assistance to improve their personal lives as well as better their communities. Educational centers train local farmers to improve their techniques, produce, and market their product. The centers work on a wide-range of projects including: organic worm composting, hydroponic cultivation, seed propagation, chicken raising, recycling, and technical training. While the emphasis is on agriculture, these programs realize that the well-being of the farmers is just as important, and many institutions offer classes on basic hygiene, health, and literacy.

Highlights: An ELI placement will take you into areas most hard-hit by the civil war: the Mayan villages in the Highlands. This is the heart of Maya country, where Guatemala's indigenous people have lived for centuries. More than half of the population of Guatemala is Mayan, and participants have a unique opportunity to experience this culture during their programs.

Qualifications: Participants must speak Spanish at a high-intermediate level. Also, participants must have a demonstrated knowledge in relevant fields(school or professional experience).

Cost in US$: Cost varies. Please contact us for details

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: There is no typical ELI volunteer. We work with people from all over the world and a variety of backgrounds. ELI has placed volunteers ranging in age from 18-81. Successful volunteers are flexible, upbeat, energetic, and inquisitive.

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

Participants Travel to Guatemala Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Resume

ELI-Experiential Learning International's Mission Statement: ELI's full name, Experiential Learning International, reflects our philosophy. We believe that the most compelling life lessons come through experience, and that international experiences are among the most profound influences on our sense of self and our view of the world. ELI facilitates flexible international learning programs for independent travelers by partnering with local organizations to give participants the opportunity to experience and contribute to sustainable ongoing local projects throughout the world.

Year Founded: 2001