Overview
Volunteer work with children in Ecuador

This volunteer work based in Ecuador offers volunteers the fantastic opportunity to work with children, learn Spanish, live with a local family in the beautiful market town Otavalo, experience indigenous Andean culture, travel to nearby rural mountains for project work, and explore the stunning Ecuadorian area.

GVI, along with leaders of the indigenous communities, are developing educational programmes to assist children and adults who otherwise would not have the opportunity to receive a formal education or who need educational reinforcement. Volunteers have the option to take their own class, or assist other volunteers and the local teacher until they feel they can take their own class.

View Film Footage, images, blogs, volunteer stories from the field, volunteer video diaries and more at the programs media centre

The effect the project has had on my life is more than I ever expected it to be. I returned to Ecuador in April for six months as co-ordinator of volunteers and schools… something that only ever seemed to be a dream has become a reality!

Chrissie Ellison, 2007 volunteer

What Difference Does This Project Make?

With just one or two teachers per school, the volunteers’ teaching presence allows the children more opportunity to receive help in their education. GVI Secondary School scholarships allow the children to follow on into Secondary which was not possible before. A substantial part of the fee goes towards the day-to-day running costs of the projects themselves throughout the year, including daily transport, food subsidies for the school meals and fruit for the children (sometimes their only meal of the day), educational materials for classes, monthly birthday celebrations, painting and maintenance.

Highlights

Living in the heart of the community in Otavalo; working with indigenous children; learning Spanish (optional); adventure side trips, cultural workshops and excursions, amazing community interaction.

Location

Nestling high in the Andes, a few hours from Ecuador's capital city, volunteers stay in the town of Otavalo. This market town is famous for its handicraft market and indigenous Andean community, and is a popular destination for visitors to the country. The town has many amenities including the Spanish school, internet access, bars and restaurants. Volunteers work either within communities situated about a one hour minivan ride up from Otavalo, up in the mountains or a short bus ride and a half hour hike.

Field Conditions

Living with local families in Otavalo in comfortable accommodation allows for an enriching cultural experience and the valuable opportunity to practice Spanish! You will have your own private room, with hot water and three meals a day provided. The food is very typical of the area, being varied and including meats and plenty of vegetables and fruits. Vegetarians are also well catered for. Travel upgrades are available on this project see dates and costs for more information.