Work in a rural community and build an energy efficient stove in Nicaragua

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Program Overview
Life on the Program
Program Details
Volunteer Testimonials

Program Overview

Travel to the stunning north of Nicaragua and into the rural heartlands and volunteer for one week to build an energy efficient stove for impoverished rural communities.

Even though this is a short term project, your contribution will make a very real difference to one family, as the stove you build will last for over 20 years.

This project is operated by our in-country partner, Phoenix, who have worked in Latin America since 2003 and Nicaragua since 2009, improving standards of living through educational programs and the construction of energy efficient stoves.

Life on the Program

There are two parts to this project. You will spend your first two days taking 1-on-1 Spanish lessons in Esteli before working in the community the rest of the week to build your stove.

This project involves a certain degree of physical work and so a reasonable level of fitness is required. You will be expected to assist the local mason in mixing cement, lifting materials and other tasks that are necessary to complete the stove.

The rest of your time will be spent in Esteli where you will live with a local host family in basic but comfortable accommodation, practicing your Spanish and getting to know your fellow volunteers.

Program Details

Phoenix works with two rural communities outside of Esteli, with the aim to improve the standard of living of families by reducing in-house smoke inhalation and pollution. This aim is achieved in the design of the stove that channels the harmful smoke and fumes out of the house.

Overall, the goal is for the families of all children who attend Phoenix schools to be equipped with an energy efficient stove. For many families, placing a child into education is a sacrifice, as it is one less form of income for the family. The stove serves as a reward to the families for doing so.