Volunteer Work- Finca La Flor de Parai­so

  Costa Rica

Paraiso

Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: inquire for dates

Description: ASODECAH (Association for the Development of Environmental and Human Consciousness) works with people from the community, but volunteers make an essential contribution to the project. We welcome all volunteers, whether they come to develop a special skill or they simply come for the enthusiasm of living with nature and working with children. Volunteers are welcome all year round, for a short or a longer time. ASODECAH works with several volunteer organizations in the US, Canada and Europe such as AFS, Gap Challenge or WWOOF. All ages are encouraged to volunteer. Although Spanish knowledge is not required, it is to the advantage of the volunteer to study some Spanish. ASODECAH runs an Alternative Spanish Language Institute as well where classes are offered.

The work of the volunteers is in the different areas of the farm:

- Organic agriculture
- Reforestation
- Domestic animals
- Medical herbs
- Construction
- Arts
- Community work
- Children education etc.

Highlights: A volunteer can rotate or just work in one area in which he or she would like to get experience or has special skills. Independent projects within these areas can be arranged by consultation with project employees. In some instances, volunteers have arranged school credit for projects completed at the farm.

Therefore, we have developed a 'Volunteer-Student Program' at our 14 hectare Farm for Field Studies in La Flor, Costa Rica which integrates them in all the activities of an Agroecological farm and Environmental School. The presence of trained local staff, who guide volunteer-students will ensure an effective apprenticeship program. Our priority is to provide an educational experience. If you have a special skill or specific interest, we will make our best to accommodate them. We also offer an optional program to integrate our volunteers with the local village. Friendly families from nearby homes are willing to share meals and inter cultural discussions. This is also a great way to learn and practice Spanish.

Our modest guest houses and dormitories, equipped with beds, linens, toilets, and hot showers, provide comfortable accommodations for up to 35 students or volunteers at any time. Fresh, generous, and nutritional traditional Costa Rican and mostly vegetarian meals, snacks, and drinks provide students with the energy to work outside in the tropical climate. The farm is located at 1250 meters / 4000 feet above sea level. We also offer an optional program to integrate our volunteers with the local village. Friendly families from nearby homes are willing to share meals and inter cultural discussions. This is also a great way to learn and practice Spanish.

Qualifications: All ages are encouraged to volunteer. Although Spanish knowledge is not required, it is to the advantage of the volunteer to study some Spanish

Salary / Pay: inquire for more info

Experience Required: no

La Flor de Paraiso Language Institute's Mission Statement: La Flor de Paraiso is a project established by ASODECAH, a non-profit organization, with the goal of Working towards Sustainable Development; Regenerating 10ha of tropical rain forest; Develop and educate about organic agriculture; Support Costa Rican environmental initiatives; Create social projects for children, women and the community; and Cultural exchange.

Year Founded: 1998