volunteer in ecuador

Volunteer in Ecuador

International volunteer programs are a great way to experience real cultural immersion while giving back to your host community. Spirit offers a variety of volunteer projects in Ecuador with the chance to live with a friendly, knowledgeable host family who will help you learn about the local culture and practice your Spanish skills. You will work side by side with locals, as well as other volunteers from around the world. If you dream of experiencing the world more deeply than as just a tourist, Spirit’s Volunteer in Ecuador program might be right for you!

PROGRAM DETAILS

Program Details

Our partner organization in Ecuador, Fundación Bolivar Education, are experts in organizing volunteer programs that meet the needs of the community, as well as that of the volunteers.  Projects are available throughout the year for a minimum of one week and are offered in many different fields.

Possible project areas include:

  • Children & Youth
  • Health
  • Environment & Agriculture
  • Teaching
  • Gender Issues
  • Elderly Care
  • Community Development
  • Animal Welfare

QUALIFICATIONS

Qualifications

volunteer-in-ecuador-qualifications

The program is available to adults 18+ years of age.  Whether you’re interested in wildlife volunteering or working with children, keep in mind that most Ecuadorians speak only Spanish. For you to work as a volunteer, you need to be able to speak Spanish at an intermediate level in order to qualify.

Fundacion Bolivar Education also offers Spanish classes if you need extra practice before your volunteer project begins.

HOW TO APPLY

How to Apply

volunteer-in-ecuador-how-to-apply

Contact our partner Fundacion Bolivar Education directly for more information on the programs available in Ecuador.

Be sure to mention that you were referred by Spirit Cultural Exchange in order to qualify for special program discounts!

SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarships

Spirit offers annual merit-based scholarships for US citizens 18 years and up to take part in a 2-4 week volunteering project in Ecuador through Fundación Bolivar Education. Applications are not currently being accepted for our scholarship program. Check back for more information on future scholarship opportunities.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I start?

Volunteers are accepted on an ongoing basis, which means you can start whenever you want!

Why do I have to pay to volunteer?

Volunteer program fees cover the costs of arranging the volunteer site, securing qualified host families and other administrative expenses to support the program.

Do I need experience or education to particpate?

No, you do not need to have organizational experience or a specific education to participate in the volunteer program, other than an intermediate level of verbal Spanish.

Will I be working alone?

The number of volunteers varies by project. Please contact Fundacion Bolivar Education for details on the projects that interest you.

Are there any travel advisories for Ecuador?

Information on United States Department of State Travel Advisories can be found at: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/ecuador-travel-advisory.html

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

Cultural Activities

During your stay in Ecuador, you will have the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture by living with a host family who will share mealtime with you and get you acquainted with the community. Spanish lessons, fun social events, dancing and cooking lessons as well as monthly meetings with other volunteers in the area will allow you to soak up the local culture while making a difference in the community through your volunteer work.

Get Started on Your Volunteer Adventure

Get Started

What our volunteers say…

“I loved and enjoyed my host family a lot! My host mother and I would sit down in front of the house and just talk. She also taught me a lot about indigenous culture. I feel like my trip here helped widen my mind on what it means to want a successful and happy life.”- Salvador M.
“Quito has been an unforgettable experience. I have learned about the Ecuadorian people and their culture. I know I will forever hold all of these memories close to me.”- Samantha B.
“This opportunity has truly changed my life. I discovered more about myself, exchanged my culture with a completely different one, learned so much about Ecuador and the Spanish language, gained a unique hospital experience, formed friendships that will last a lifetime, and so many more things that cannot be put into words. I am so grateful and lucky to have had this enriching experience.”- Monika S.

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