The following is a list of free or low fee volunteer work programs in South America. If you know of a volunteer program that should be added to our list, please share it in the comments.

Volunteer in Argentina

Free Volunteer Programs in South America - Argentina

Center for Human Rights and the Environment – This organization in Cordoba works to promote greater access to justice and guarantee human rights for victims of environmental degradation.

Cloud Head – Leigh Shulman and Noah Edelblum collaborate with local NGOs in Salta to develop the technology and skills needed in order to support the NGO’s work in the community. If you are a designer, artist, videographer, teacher or have business & marketing skills they may be able to match you to an organization.

English House – Volunteers at the English House are assistants to teachers providing conversation and pronunciation help to the students. In exchange, the organization offers Spanish classes and an immersion program.

Estancia la Margarita – This traditional country style eco-hacienda takes 2 volunteers at a time. The work can be varied and interesting and will include riding out with guests so you will need to be a very competent horse rider. There are free and paid volunteer opportunities here depending on your length of stay.

Food Bank Foundation – This Buenos Aires food bank stores and distributes food. Volunteers normally stay at the workhouse classifying donated food.

Fundacion Leer – Aims to provide children of Argentina with access to books and promotes reading. Volunteers help build reading corners in schools and participating in events.

Habitat para la Humanidad – This organization facilitates the building of a better home for people that live in challenging conditions. There are two ways of volunteering. You can either help construct the homes or work on administrative tasks.

La Casa Maria – Provides food, clothing, education, hygiene, health and general assistance to unprivileged children and adolescents of the region. They pride themselves in providing a loving home for those kids during the day.

LIFE – LIFE works with the poor of Argentina to provide a healthy environment, happiness and a better future for children. They have a staff that works for free and have hosted over 4,000 volunteers.

Por los Chicos – PLC works to improve nutrition of over 3,500 kids all over Argentina. Anyone committed to providing children with a better quality of life is welcome to volunteer with them.

La Montana- This school organizes volunteering opportunities in Patagonia to any traveller that might want to donate their time. They require at least 2 weeks of commitment from possible volunteers and a beginner level of Spanish.

Union de los Pibes – Club Union de los Pibes is a small, voluntary organization in Buenos Aires that offers lessons (art, English for kids and adults, drama, cooking and many others), helps out with homework and generally aims to provide a safe and stable environment for a few hours a week to children who know very little stability in their daily lives.

Vecinos De la Boca – This is another organization that works to give people, especially marginalized children, access to a better life.

Volunteer in Bolivia

Free Volunteer Programs in South America - Bolivia

Amanecer – This organization was created by a catholic order because of the increasing number of abandoned children living on the streets. They offer a wide range of areas where volunteers can work from care giving to computer classes.

Artesania Sorata Fairtrade – This organization produces high quality alpaca knitwear and handcrafts, providing work to families with low to non incomes in urban Bolivia. They receive professionals and non-professionals that have some knowledge in Spanish.

Biblioworks – They work under the principle that literacy and education are critical to create sustainable communities. Volunteers at BiblioWorks accomplish everything from teaching English to painting libraries to writing grants.

Condor Trekkers – This is a non-profit organization that finances its projects through trekking and city tours. It currently supports a few organizations mainly targeted to education. The organization is managed and ran by volunteers. They are open to suggestions on how you can help.

Fox Language Academy – They offer free volunteering opportunities for anyone that wants to donate their time teaching English to children or adults.

Inti Wara Yassi – CIWY works in defense of animal rights. Volunteers work with cats, monkeys, birds, reptiles and other small animals. You work only in one area so the animals become accustomed to you. They ask for a time commitment of at least 15 days.

Luz del Mundo – This is a centre where they teach English, theatre, music and forms of art to children. These children come from homes where parents can’t afford this kind of education. Volunteers help teach these classes that take place 4 days a week. You don’t need to be a teaches to volunteer.

Prosthetics for Bolivia – Their objective is to provide prosthetic devices to anyone with a low income that might need one. They also have a small clinic where volunteers are needed.

Proyecto Horizonte – They fight poverty through education, health care and community development. Volunteer programs can be as short as 1 month and as long as they want in any suitable area.

Sucre Spanish School – This Spanish school can hook you up with different volunteer opportunities in the area.

Sustainable Bolivia – They promote economic and environmental sustainability and try to provide organizations in Bolivia with human and financial resources. They are always looking for volunteers.

Volunteer in Brazil

Free Volunteer Programs in South America - Brazil

Creche de Felicidade – It is a nursery in Rocinha where volunteers are always needed.

Iracambi – A group of people that manage natural resources, develop sustainable communities and research ecosystems in Brazil’s beautiful Atlantic Rainforest. If you have a special idea or skill that you think might be useful for them, contact them so they can place you as a volunteer.

Oiyakaha – This centre for art and ecology is in the Brazilian Amazon. They ask for at least 1 month of commitment from volunteers and they do not require any kind of special training.

REGUA – Reserva Ecológica de Guapiaçu has the mission of preserving the Atlantic Rainforest with a lodge where travellers can stay. Aside from guests, they accept volunteers. To volunteer you have to be 18 or older and willing to work outdoors.

SER Alzira de Aleluia – Ser is a non-governmental organization in Rio de Janeiro that works alongside the community promoting citizenship and providing an educational training, as well as promoting spaces for empowerment.

Volunteer in Chile

Free Volunteer Programs in South America - Chile

Ama – The Agrupacion Medio Ambiental support conservation, scientific investigation and environmental education. They are looking for people who enjoy working outdoors and joining teams. They offer programs that last between 15 days and 1 month.

One World – A nursery school that aims to provide a multicultural environment and healthy environment for kids between 2 to 6 years. Volunteers must have a lot of patience and love for children because they will be teachers.

Save the Wild Chinchillas – This is a conservation organization aiming to restore the essential habitat for endangered chinchillas and to protect habitat degradation.

VE Global (Voluntarios de la Esperanza) – VE Global recruits, trains and organizes international volunteers to achieve their mission of fostering the positive development of children at social risk in Chile. Volunteers serve for a minimum, 4-month, full-time volunteer commitment, working with children and youth at risk in children’s shelters and community centers in Santiago, Chile. Volunteer classes arrive in January, May and September.

The Volunteer Traveler’s Handbook is a valuable resource for new and veteran travelers.  It guides you through the challenges of finding and choosing ideal volunteer experiences. The book’s practical advice is provided through first-person narrative, stories from volunteers, beautiful photography, and expert interviews.  You will find meaningful ways to give back to communities all over the world through volunteering.  The Volunteer Traveler’s Handbook has a strong focus on social enterprises and supporting sustainable tourism practices.

Volunteer in Colombia

Free Volunteer Programs in South America - Colombia

Casa de Cultura de la Boquilla – It is an institute created to support and enhance cultural developments in our community. You can volunteer with them by helping them teach English just 15min outside of Cartagena.

Edupaz Santa Marta – Volunteers get to work with a group of people providing a social service. The focus is on strengthening moral, ethical and spiritual values among local children. They are looking for teachers for different disciplines, physical education volunteers, yoga teachers and more.

Fundacion Mariposas Amarillas – This is a small grassroots organization committed to supporting disadvantaged children by providing education, workshops, nutrition and recreation. There is a constant need of volunteers to teach our after-school classes or work on our social programs.

Volunteer in Ecuador

Free Volunteer Programs in South America - Ecuador

Andean Bear – The foundation needs you to save Andean bears and sustaining the beauty and ecological integrity of its natural habitat. Volunteers can be biologists and artists to pain awareness murals.

Ceiba Foundation for tropical Conservation – Works for habitat conservation, environmental education, community development, reforestation, and scientific research. Volunteers perform outdoors work in the forest, but most of the positions don’t require special knowledge or skills.

Center for the Working Girl – CENIT is a non-governmental and non-lucrative organization that provides help to children that find themselves in the necessity of working to support their family so they can come out of extreme poverty. Volunteers are needed for different tasks. There are even a few projects that are run 100% by volunteers.

CERFA – This botanical garden that is responsible for planning, implementing and evaluating strategies, guidelines and actions to consolidate a culture of respect for the natural environment. All they as of volunteers is a medium knowledge in Spanish and at least 1 month of commitment.

Cielo Azul – NGO that needs volunteers who love working with children. All you need is to be at least 18 years old and to preferably have experience as a teacher.

Cloud Forest Adventure – If you are concerned about the disappearance of the cloud forest this group of locals wants to hear from you. The aim is to provide locals with alternative and sustainable sources of income by offering eco-tours. Volunteers are accepted for a low fee and work teaching, or at an eco farm.

CONAGRO – Cooperation for Organic Agriculture and Microfinance was born in 1998 to try to support the development in communities of northern Ecuador. The idea is to fight poverty by providing work opportunities.

Ecuador Eco Volunteer – It is a Social Enterprise with volunteering programs that take place in 4 different places of Ecuador: the amazon, the Andes, Galapagos or in the coast.

Equilibrio Azul – Is a non-profit organization working to preserve Ecuador’s ecosystems and marine resources. Volunteers are accepted year round to help out with the turtle project, marine bird project and others.

Fundacion Zoobreviven – Was created to protect the ecosystems and wildlife of Ecuador. This non-profit organization manages 3 reserves in the northern region of the country. The only thing is asked of volunteers is basic knowledge in Spanish.

Guayabillas – An animal rescue center that takes care of over 900 animals and depends on volunteers to be able to give them proper care. The minimum commitment time is 1 week.

Hostal Llullu Llama – It is located in the Andes and is a place where volunteers help to run the hostal in exchange of food and board for as long as they want. However, volunteers have to stay for at least 2 months and should have basic knowledge in Spanish.

Merazonia – Rescue and rehabilitation center for trafficked and abused animals from the Amazon over 250 acres of rainforest. Volunteers help in taking care of the animals.

One More Option in Ecuador – A site that showcases ONGs working for locals. So take a look, you might find and organization that is looking for whatever it is that you can offer as a volunteer.

Perucho Organic farm – POAE is based on a village that works along with locals towards making nearby farms organic. Volunteers help farmers in the implementation of the necessary practices and techniques to avoid erosion and make it all more eco friendly.

Reserva los Cedros – It is a forest and wildlife reserve that consists of 17,000 acres. Along with protecting the forest they try to protect major watersheds that are in it. Volunteers are involved in tasks such as, trail maintaining, making sure that the reserve’s borders are ok, assisting with research among others.

Ride Andes Ecuador – A well established horseback riding company that has been running thanks to talented volunteers for 15 years.

Saraswati Ahimsa Vana – A 26 hectare reserve where a lot of people work towards preserving it. Volunteers are needed to help and learn about vegetarian cooking, permaculture, meditation, philosophy and participate on educational programs for children.

Tangare Foundation – Group of people working to promote and strengthen an alternative and innovative model of development through conservation of the Tropical Andes and sustainability. They need volunteers to be sent to communities all over Ecuador.

Un Poco del Chocó – Is a nature reserve and biological station located over 15 hectares of land. Volunteers help in carpentry work, trail building, organic garden and environmental education.

Volunteer las Tolas – Las Tolas is a trend-setting community, deeply rooted in the traditions of its Yumbo ancestors, in the Ecuadorian Cloud Forest of the Andes Mountains.Volunteer projects include community infrastructure development, farm work, creating crafts in the artisan shop, eco-tourism infrastructure development, helping in the school, and teaching English.

Vrindavan – This is a 65 hectare ecological village. Their volunteer program is targeted to people that want to experience life in this sort of village and practicing yoga. Activities include farming, cooking, teaching, gardening meditation, among others.

Wachimak – Wachimak is also the name of a community in the Amazon jungle that they work with. Volunteers are involved in tasks such as teaching and helping out with the reforestation and construction work. Pretty much anyone is needed here, plumbers, doctors, engineers, dentists, etc.

Yachana Foundation – Works toward the conservation of the Equatorian forest and its wildlife and to provide indigenous communities with tools for sustainable development. Volunteers can teach or be part of their clinic.

Yanapuma Foundation – An NGO that works with indigenous and marginalized communities to promote sustainable development. They have varied low cost volunteer programs where you get to teach, rescue animals, become a part of the healthcare system and more.

You Volunteer – You Volunteer is a volunteering directory for non-profit organisation offering low-cost volunteering placements.

Volunteer in Galapagos

Free Volunteer Programs in South America - Galapagos

Fundación Charles Darwin – Located in the Galapagos Islands, the Charles Darwin Foundation, works alongside governmental institutions. They provide scientific knowledge and assistance. They take volunteers that would like to work as scientists, educators, research assistants and support staff.

Hacienda Esperanza – Here, volunteers give back to the community through conservation work and through promoting sustainable tourism. Volunteers can stay for as short as a week, up to 3 months.

Volunteer in Paraguay

Free Volunteer Programs in South America - Paraguay

Para La Tierra – Non-Profit organization that promotes sustainable, social tourism to Paraguay. All of their hard work goes towards protecting endangered habitats and the animals that live in them. All you need is to be over 18 years old and be willing to help out wherever necessary.

The Santa Maria Education Fund – A Jasuit mission that is constantly looking for volunteers who want to work as teachers. The requirements are: to be older than 21 years and they only take 3 volunteers at a time and they should stay for at least 5 months.

Volunteer in Peru

Free Volunteer Programs in South America - Peru

Aldea Yanapay – The goal of this organization is to create an eco village and an orphanage. It started as a small alternative school but has grown. To fund this project and future ones they also opened a Restaurant and Yanapay House, a cheap little hotel.

Amazon Animal Orphanage & Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm – Volunteers take care of animals and work at a butterfly farm. The animals that they take in have been purchased by people and then abandoned, abused and in a few cases animals are taken directly to the organization.

Andean Alliance – This association based in Huaraz, Peru is focused on supporting community development by implementing programs that strengthen the education. As many other organizations do, this one takes long and short term volunteers.

Aprode Peru – Their efforts aim to contribute with social, economical and cultural development of poor locals through projects scattered all over the country. If you are interested in volunteering with them send them an e-mail taking about your interests. They might have something for you.

El Arte Sano – Cultural and Educative asociation that teaches French, Spanish, English and Quechuain Urubamba. They are looking for English teachers to work with children. Instead of charging, they give back a small amount of money to volunteers for their trouble.

Asociacion Grupo de Trabajo Redes – AGTR is an NGO with the mission of defending human rights or poor and marginalized people. Volunteers are involved in tasks such as teaching, chatting, playing, and doing handcrafts, among others.

Awaiting Angels – It is a non-profit organization that provides educational programs; they seek to improve the quality of life of families in Peru. Volunteers are used mainly in teaching tasks.

Ayni – Education is life – They work in northern Peru to alleviate some of the major barriers of living in extreme poverty through women’s development projects, to small micro-credit schemes, as well as encouraging and supporting education.

Blue Sparrow – Non-profit organization that works for rural communities that are extremely poor. As a volunteer you can choose 1 of 4 options. You can: teach computer, work at the micro finance project, help improve local agriculture and in their health and sociological project.

Carisma Peru – The organization’s name means: friendship, generosity and love toward other people. It was established with the objective of improving and developing the abilities and skills of deprived children and adolescents who live in the rural Andean region. Volunteers can help in one of their 6 different projects.

CooperarPeru – Cooperative that works to reinforce the capacities of the local population. Their belief is that there is so much more to do than teaching children. They also address the social phenomenon to prevent academic failure.

Eco Truly Park – An ecological yoga village where volunteers get to experience and learn about how to live in harmony with nature and themselves. As a volunteer you can stay for as short as 1 day or as long as you want.

Esperanza Verde – Is a conservation Project under construction on the Amazon of Peru. They work together with the community by offering alternative and sustainable sources of income. They are also trying to build a shelter. Volunteers are needed to help build this project.

Expand Peru – Non-profit organization that helps Peruvians in extreme poverty through education and health. There are 9 projects that you can choose from according to your skills and interests. You should also be at least 18 years old when you apply.

Fair Play Peru – Fair Play trains single mothers and families to provide Spanish lessons and homestays. They do this so, when a volunteer comes, they don’t pay the organization but pay the family that is teaching them and hosting them.

HOOP – Small NGO that works with a poor community in Arequipa, Peru to improve their lives through education. Volunteers are expected to lead and assist their programs. some of the programs are: psychology, social work, leadership workshops, English teaching homework support, sports and excursions.

Horizon – It is an NPO created due to the need of a better education system, a complete one that everyone can afford in La Esperanza District. Free English, computer, music, football, art classes among others, are offered by them to children and adults. Most volunteers teach English but they can also be involved in any of the other aspects.

Incawasi – Founded in 2005, this non-profit organization aims to break the cycle of poverty that affects families in the Cajamarca Region. Volunteers teach, play and have lunch with the children, as well as help with other tasks such as painting, repairing, fundraising and organizing activities.

Intiwawa – Intitawa fights poverty in the second largest city of Peru, Arequipa. Free volunteer opportunities are offered and you get to choose which of their projects is the best for you according to your skills.

La Casa Corazon – This is a private international volunteer community that charges no fees to volunteers. The only thing asked of volunteers is for a basic knowledge Spanish. The staff also provides training before you start working.

Living Heart – Seeks to empower children through nutritional support, health and education via a collaborative and holistic approach. They only take volunteers when they need it. If you have expertise and/or training in engineering, medicine, dentistry, organic greenhouses, perm culture, sustainable high-mountain agriculture, husbandry, ecological constructions, and other, they might be looking for you.

Mundo Verde Spanish School – The money from tuition goes to projects that benefit locals. If you desire to volunteer they can connect you to local organizations without charging an extra fee.

My Small Help – Their mission is to help those living in poverty or with a disability access to a brighter future, primarily by providing access to education, skills training, and health care.

Otra Cosa – A Peruvian NGO that offers affordable volunteering opportunities for people from all over the world. They work mostly on the northern region of the country. Their goal is to support a wide range of projects with help of volunteers.

Proyecto Yannick – Proyecto Yannick helps children with Down syndrome and their parents in Celendín, Peru. They do so by providing information, education and medical assistance. Volunteers should have some kind of experience in working with children.

Santa Martha Foundation – They provide shelter and protection, tenderness, love and education to over 700 children and adolescents. The tasks for volunteers are: Tutoring children, Workshops (bakery, cooking, sewing, computer, farm, crafts, etc …), Maintenance of the Home and you can also create your own project.

Seeds of Hope – Over 55 children in extreme poverty are supported by them and volunteers are incredibly important. Currently, teachers, social workers, psychologists, project co-ordinators, medically trained people, language professionals, marketing and fundraising professionals are needed.

Sembrando Semillas con Yoga – The idea behind this organization is to teach the principal yogic ideas and make them accessible to children. Volunteers are trained in the art of yoga and ecological, harmonious living. They are currently looking for volunteers that can spend at least 6 month ago.

Tambopata Macaw Project – A long term research Project focusing in conservation of macaws and parrots in Peru. They have made many discoveries on insights of the way they live. Working with them is as demanding as it is rewarding and you need no specific qualifications.

Teach Huaraz – Is a small volunteer organization that aims to make lives better in the Huaraz Comumnity. They assist people of all ages and backgrounds. Volunteers get their tasks assigned according to their interests and skills.

The Light and Leadership Initiative – The aim is to respond to the needs of women that struggle with poverty through workshops and classes. Children are offered similar opportunities. Volunteers are needed to cooperate with the education and women’s empowerment projects.

Threads of Peru – Non-Profit organization working to alleviate poverty of indigenous communities by marketing their weaves. They have a couple of positions for volunteers that want to work hard and can be trusted.

Tinkuy Peru – Grass roots volunteer organization in the Andes that runs a Mountain School. It teaches around 75 children between 5-16 years old. As a volunteer you only need to spend a few hours at the school teaching anything from math to arts and crafts.

Traveller Not Tourist – The idea is to provide visitors the true Peruvian experience, to immerse them in the culture and to give locals the chance to take themselves out of poverty. To volunteer with them you can choose to do it from your home or at site.

Volunteering in Peru – The organization works to improve the quality of life of locals. They do it through enabling personal growth. Their volunteer program is opened for people from all over the world as long as they are 18 or older. Volunteers also get to choose their task according to their skills.

Waves for Development – An organization dedicated to help local people with little resources to enjoy a cool and healthy activity like surfing in Lobitos. There is also an educational program where volunteers are welcome to participate.

Volunteer Throughout South America

Volunteersouthamerica.net – This is a great resource of free and low fee volunteer opportunities throughout South America.

For more volunteer programs around the world – click here!

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Free Volunteer Programs in South America

37 Comments

  1. Hello:
    We are The Macaw Society (formally known as Tambopata Macaw Project). We used to be listed on your website under PERU volunteer opportunities.
    We currently have volunteer opportunities to work monitoring wild macaws in Peru (Tambopata) and Costa Rica (the Nicoya Peninsula and Central Pacific coast. Essentially, volunteering as part of our projects is free. We take care of research permit costs, cover the costs of all our staff, work to maintain training material, and also deal with all correspondence and various aspects of project management. However, our budget does not extend to being able to pay for all aspects of participation. As such, volunteers only need to pay for food, accommodation, and other services provided by the field station. The costs for such are very reasonable. We also offer a few volunteer positions free of cost.
    We would love to be part of your website back again. Please, check our website for more information https://vetmed.tamu.edu/themacawsociety/volunteer/

  2. We have been working hard on this list and keeping it up to date. Let us know of any organizations you think should be added or removed from this list. Our goal is to make this post as useful as possible for you, our community. Thanks for your support!

  3. The Unidad Academica Campesina-Carmen Pampa is a unique college in rural Bolivia that provides higher education to impoverished indigenous rural youth. My organization, Carmen Pampa Fund, is currently accepting applications for teaching positions in the College’s Ecotourism program for February-June of 2019. Volunteers would help implement a comprehensive, standardized English curriculum to students interested in promoting their customs and culture.

    No fees are charged. Volunteers would receive free room and board in a communal living situation. Volunteers would pay only for your plane ticket, visa expenses and personal needs.

    Deadline for application for the February-June (2019) semester is December 15, but we have a need every semester, starting in February and July every year.

    For more information, visit https://carmenpampafund.org/volunteer/professional-visitor-opportunities-in-bolivia/ or contact us at info@carmenpampafund.org.

  4. Hello! I am trying to get the word out about a free volunteering opportunity! Here are the details:
    We are Centro de Atención Integral para la Inclusión (CAII) [Center of Integral Attention for Social Inclusion], and we work with families who live in situations of vulnerability by generating systematic inclusion processes. Our website is https://www.inclusioncaii.org/
    We are looking for young people from all around the world with an advanced level of Spanish proficiency to become a part of our Center for Child Care Assistance, whose mission is to guarantee the healthy growth and development of socially vulnerable children. As a volunteer, you would help take care of these vulnerable children both physically and emotionally for 4 hours each weekday. Email us to learn more about your responsibilities or visit our website!
    CAII will cover housing in the center of Buenos Aires and meals in exchange for working 4 hours each weekday (20 hours a week)and for a minimum of 2 months because of the relationship development with children. You can start on July 1, 2018, through October 1, 2018, and end anytime in or before December. (This program occurs yearly so if you can’t do 2018 contact us to see when you can!!)
    To apply, email caii.alianzasinternacionales@gmail.com with an explanation of why you would like to be a part of our project (in Spanish) and attach your resume.

    Thank you, and please add us to your list!!

  5. Hello, I am trying to get the word out about a paid volunteer oppurtunity at a Christian International School in Guatemala. LINK AT BOTTOM.

    Applicants have to be Christian.

    There are a number of positions including; Math, Science, Bible Studies, Elementary Principal, History, English Literature, PE, Counsellors, Music / Drama, Aid / Development and a number of Primary positions. Minimum requirement is a degree in the field i.e., Maths, Physics. Candidates need not have teaching experience although it is preferable.

    Benefits:

    -Teachers can become a certified teacher through ASCI.
    -The school provides accommodation with host families at $225 per month (including bills and meals). However, teachers are at liberty to find their own accommodation or move out at any time.
    -$750 is put towards Professional Development each year.
    -$150 is available to go towards learning Spanish.
    -There is a teacher bus which drops teachers off at the school every day.
    -A ticket back to closest home of record is provided at the end of the year.
    -IAS is a 501C3 employer (loan deferment and loan forgiveness). Income contingent $0 payments may be made against outstanding student loans whilst working at the school.
    -There are many opportunities to go Hiking / Scuba Diving etc in the vicinity.

    https://www.christian-teachers.org.uk/vacancies/christian-international-school-guatemala-vacancies/

  6. Hi there,

    We are the Latin American Foundation for the Future (LAFF) and would love if our organisation could be listed onto True Travellers. LAFF gives children and organisations in Peru the tools and skills they need to build a more independent future. We provide education and vocational training for at-risk young people. We also support homes to be more sustainable with income-generation, cost reduction and capacity building.

    Working to support disadvantaged young people or trekking the Inca Trail? why not do both?! Get the best of both worlds with a volunteering experience where you donate your skills and experience, rather than your money. LAFF are looking for volunteers to come and work with us overseas assisting our International Projects Manager and working with our local partners.

    NOW RECRUITING!!!!
    We are currently recruiting for the following positions:

    LAFF Communications Coordinator
    LAFF Social Enterprise Coordinator
    LAFF Youth Development Coordinator
    LAFF Programme Coordinator
    LAFF Monitoring & Evaluation Coordinator
    LAFF Fundraising Coordinator
    LAFF Events & Fundraising Coordinator

    Thank you so much!

  7. A small non-profit organization in Peru that works directly with its own projects in the Andean populations in extreme poverty needs motivated volunteers to help with projects with the community, empowerment of Andean women, health, and emotional and educational aid for children in risk.

    It is a genuine project where you as a volunteer work face to face with the people of the population developing an interesting experience of volunteer work and cultural exchange

    also, a form of direct immersion in artisanal Andean towns, excursions on weekends to mountains, lakes, waterfalls in the jungle and visit to pre-Inca ruins, also offers exchange experiences in foods, sweets and pastry, as well as of abundant cultural information of the Inca Andean culture, interesting places, and holistic experiences and Andean Andean energy, Andean Reiki, yoga and others (optional and directed to interested people of the subject)
    all this in a non-commercial way

    This is a project entirely of social work and cultural exchange developed by people with experience of years of work and training, and an authentic social motivation, works completely in a team and has a form of horizontal organization, you are not treated as a “client” Or simple number, you are considered part of a fairly human team of united work.

    to participate you do not need training in the subject or previous experience, just have a sense of teamwork and, adaptation and the possibility of joining a multicultural team

    for more details visit this website:
    http://sharingdreamsproject.info/

    Thank you :)

  8. Hi,

    Huanchaco Al Rescate is an animal welfare organization based in the beach town of Huanchaco, Peru. We run a shelter for over 32 abandoned and mistreated street dogs, who we rehabilitate and seek to find adoptive homes for. We also run regular local canine health and education campaigns, including free vaccination and deworming drives.

    We’re in need of volunteers, short or long term, to help support our shelter, our events and our fundraising activities. We do not charge any fees to our volunteers, and can help find cheap accommodation locally.

    Our website is at http://www.huanchacoalrescate.org

    We’d love to be featured in the list! Thanks!

  9. Hello,
    My Partner and me are looking for a volunteer experience in animal conservation. We are engeneer in Agriculture/environnement and my Partner had worked with birds and especially Penguin.
    Do you know if there are some opportnuties in animal conservation? in birds? in penguins?
    We are hardworker and hightly motivated. We loved travelling, we spent one year in new zealand and some months in Chile.
    Thnaks a lot,

    Emilien & Margaux.

  10. Volunteering Internship in Lobitos, Northern Peru with EcoSwell

    EcoSwell are a surfing inspired sustainable development non-profit (NGO) driving the development of poor Peruvian coastal communities through a path of sustainability, improving the quality of life of their inhabitants. EcoSwell develop educational, infrastructure, environmental, social and economic productivity projects working hand in hand with local communities and with international volunteers and interns. They take a “shared value” approach, working with the private, public, academic sectors and other NGO’s, to come up with relevant and lasting sustainable solutions. Our approach towards sustainability consists of three pillars:

    – Nature conservation;

    – Social justice; and

    – Economic well-being for all.

    We are currently operating in the coastal northern town of Lobitos, a surfing hotspot which has seen an increase in an uncontrolled tourism over the last 15 years. As a result of the town’s lack of infrastructure, lack of communication between stakeholders and lack of integrated development programmes, this tourism is giving rise to various environmental, social and economic risks to the town’s long terms sustainability and wellbeing. We are working to change this through a variety of projects from distinct disciplines, but we need all the help we can get.

    For a list of our day-to-day activities our volunteers help us with, visit: http://www.ecoswell.org/volunteer-activity.html

    For a list of our projects, our interns work on, visit: http://www.ecoswell.org/projects.html

  11. Hi truetravellers community!

    EduMais is a project registered at Solar Meninos de Luz, a civil and philantropic organization in Rio de Janeiro dedicated to education. EduMais is offering extra curricular and complementary educational programs for underprivileged children and youth of the Pavão-Pavãozinho and Cantagalo community in Rio de Janeiro. The children we focus on live in underprivileged circumstances and are attending a public school or dropped out of school.

    We are a young project with love and passion for children and young people living in underprivileged circumstances and a passion for education. We are here to teach and to support the underprivileged children and youth with quality education. We teach to develop social and life skills and strenghten academic skills like English, mathematic and computer skills. What makes our organization a low-cost model is a combination of academic volunteers and our partnership with Solar Meninos de Luz.

    At EduMais we are proud to have a very committed international team of volunteers. A team of volunteers willing to bring the best out of themselves and to teach children/youngsters with love, and attention to share their knowledge.
    Our (inter)national volunteers are strictly selected, had a background screening and have been trained in our methodology: Positive Discipline. Competences and skills are complementary to each other.
    Our motivated volunteers take pride in what they do and like to make a difference.

    You are as passionate about these kids-at-risk and young people living in underprivileged circumstances as we are. Do you want to use your skills to make the difference? Our kids need the support and guidance of someone who loves education, loves to teach, and loves them. We ask for love, dedication, your talent, commitment, punctuality and respect & dignity for the kids-at-risk & youth we work with. Are you a committed and motivated ESL Teacher passionate about giving your best to these kids? Do you enjoy sharing your skills in computer literacy, yoga, basic Maths and English, homework assistence, dance, theater and drama techniques encouraging creativity, and teaching them the very important social and life skills that will empower each child to have a brighter future? Do you enjoy writing, researching, taking pictures, social media, being helpful in any administrative support way? Then volunteer with us! We offer free volunteer work from 4 weeks to 6 months, depending on the volunteer area. In return you will make new friends, get a wonderful opportunity to give and learn, and you will receive our gratitude. Visit our website do read more about our activities and volunteering opportunities: http://www.edumais.org

    We would be happy to get EduMais listed on truetravllers and reach many motivated and loving volunteers!

  12. Hello!

    I am looking for a volunteer/internship opportunity in South America that works with youth and families in providing sustainable changes that serve the community it their best interest. I am finishing up school in December 2016 and want to find something where I leave in January or February 2017 and lasts a year (or more!!). I am doing additional searching, but thought posting here couldn’t hurt in hopes to connect with other individuals who are on the same pursuit! Happy hunting!
    Best,
    Krysta

  13. Hi All!

    Family planning and women’s rights are subjects I feel very strongly about. With the effects of over-population, unwanted pregnancies and this Zika virus to top I feel it is one of the most important issues to address worldwide!

    It seems there is not much available, perhaps due to being seen as controversial by many religious people and organisations.
    Marie Stopes International provides an example of the work I would like to be involved in but they are not requiring volunteers.

    Can anyone advise or point me in the right direction to any organisation with programmes anywhere in South/Central America that may be looking for volunteers.

    Thanks :-)

    • Hi there! We are looking for a female teacher to help at our all girls program in Nicaragua. I’ve attached the description below:

      Position: Female Volunteer Teacher

      We are looking for a female volunteer to teach at a new, all-girls after school program in Tola, Nicaragua. You will be joined by 1 other female volunteer from the U.S who will be helping teach subjects such as Social Studies, Language Arts, Math, Science, Critical Writing, Female Leadership, Current Events and more. The program focuses on empowering young girls and giving them the skills and resources to become vocal advocates in their rural community of Limon 1, Nicaragua.

      This unpaid internship offers the chance to experience living and working abroad in a developing country while positively contributing to girls’ education and empowerment initiatives. By creating a quality education program, we are able to offer a chance for local students to enter an intensive program that will successfully prepare them for universities or a career.

      In our local community, girls and women face many challenges that sometimes inhibit their ability to reach their full potential academically, professionally and economically. School drop-out rates are very high and gender discrimination is a constant battle for women and girls. Our hope is to create a program that will help young girls to increase their academic achievement and become global citizens.

      The chosen intern will be responsible for leading a group of 10 girls, teaching about human rights, social responsibility and drive. We believe that education for girls will not only encourage gender equality in Tola, Nicaragua, but also help in the growth of more confident, independent women who are able to live a life of their own choosing- whether that means furthering their education onto university level or pursuing the career of their choice.

      The program will take place on the FunLimon campus, a community center in Limon #1 that was created by The Mark and Kathryn Ford Family Foundation Inc. FunLimon’s mission is to create eduational opportunities for Tola locals. Their ultimate goal is to provide locals with the skills and know-how to ignite lasting, positive change in their community. FunLimon is an accredited vocational school and also supports athletic programs and a wide variety of community outreach projects. The FunLimon campus is 30-acres and includes two school buildings, an administrative office, a covered basketball arena, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a martial arts dojo, a baseball stadium, a soccer field, a playground and a small livestock farm. FunLimon is located just 1km from the Popoyo beach, a local surf town with many hostels, restaurants and surf breaks to explore on your off time. Your onsite volunteer coordinators, Rosie and Kristen, will be there to welcome you and provide you with support during your time volunteering.

      There will also be a strong emphasis on teaching additional subjects, including: Female Leadership, current events and human rights, through conversation and discussions. As a volunteer for empowering girls and women abroad and spending your time supporting and mentoring impressionable young women, you will be an important part of helping them towards a better future.

      Program is held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays afternoons from 1pm-4pm at FunLimon.

      Requirements:
      Minimum 2-month commitment
      Either studying or have a university degree in Education, Social Science, Gender Studies, International Development or related field
      Fluency in English and Spanish (preferred)
      Experience teaching and/or mentoring youth
      Commitment to the education and empowerment of women and girls

      E-mail resume to slizgik@gmail.com

      **Food/Housing/Laundry with a host family is $250 a month.

  14. Hi!
    I am looking for a 2 month internship related to my schooling in marine environmental. I want to work in conservation, marine protected areas, and sustainable living(renewable energy). Off the top of their head, does anyone have a site or place in mind they would recommend? I have spent the past few hours clicking on links around the world, and have found a few handful. I am looking for a free internship, and I really am open to going anywhere in the world.

    Thanks!
    Emma

  15. Hey, im planning on travelling to south america in january next year, I would like to do volunteer work on environmental projects, either of rejuvenation or protection.
    I have looked through the organizations listed on the website, I was just wondering if anyone knew of any which specifically worked with the environment, or had any advice on how to go about volunteering, which countries are best to volunteer in etc
    Many thanks

  16. Para la Tierra is an amazing place I would highly recommend! I stayed there for three months and made a small project with the capuchin monkeys, for my studies (I study biology). The place itself is amazing with a great lake, a beautiful forest and wild horses running around. Most volunteers and employees were biologists and I was able to learn so much from them.

  17. Hello,
    the homepage of “Elim Cusco” is not available any more. The “Fairien” Team created a new one: http://www.fairien.at
    It`s in german, but if you are interested in helping at the orphanage, just send me an e-mail (office@fairien.at) and i`ll give you the information in english.

  18. I would like to share with you an organization called Sustainable Roots we are a small grassroots organization working in the Eastern Andean cloud forest of Ecuador on sustainable development issues. We take a ground up approach working with the community hand in hand. We accept volunteers for varying lengths of time and long term volunteers have their stay paid for. For information we can be contacted at sustainableroots@gmail.com or check our website http://www.sustainable-roots.org.

    I tried using the “submit a link” option on this website but it would not let me upload with (100pixels) or without an image. Just as an FYI so you all can take a look at the syntax on that.

    Thank-you
    Toni Walters
    Executive Director
    Sustainable Roots

  19. I want to work for humanity
    bcs I am very spiritual person
    I want to devote my time fir the sake of humanity

      • Hiiii….just now understand that may will travel without moneyyyyy?? I have wish of courseeeeee….country havnot important with my husband together….but it be okey if south america…..but no problem where will be free place :-D :-D :-D I know this’d onley emply words…:-( :-( :-( where i have destiny ……:-(

  20. I highly recommend Hábitat para la Humanidad El Salvador. I work for an Habitat for Humanity affiliate in the U.S. and I had the opportunity to visit this site thanks to my job and loved it! Hábitat para la Humanidad El Salvador is a great organization with caring people seeking to improve housing for the local community. Many people worry about safety prior to going to El Salvador because of its history, but the staff here take very good care of you. Common sense, an open mind, and a love to serve will ensure that you have a great trip.

  21. Hi, have been trawling through the Internet and have to confess that am totally lost.
    My husband and I-now 60 years old residing in U.K are looking for a worthwhile project-preferably to improve the lives of poor/abandoned/street children and families through education and self sufficiency. and as we are practising Roman Catholics would like this to be through the power of showing them the love of God.
    I am ex nurse of varying specialities and my husband a builder but both brought up on a farm so familiar with eating off the land..or will be after brief reminder.
    We are looking for honest reliable organisation already in place with a view to helping expand and work along side it.Ideas would be appreciated as we dont speak Spanish.We are fit and well thank God and not afraid of hard work.Bless you.Katherine

  22. Hi guys,
    I am EXTREMELY concerned here.

    One of the volunteers i was reading about in Brazil (REGUA) is actually VERY suspicious to say the least!

    They require (a lot from) very specific skills from the volunteers, like being a tour guide or receptionist/serving staff for them, serving guests, with 8am to 4pm (8h) shifts 5 days a week.
    Example from the REGUA page:
    “We are looking for experienced birders to accompany day visitors and guests around the trails on the reserve during the busiest time of year, which is July through to December.”
    “The Lodge Host has the important role of welcoming new guests to the Lodge and ensuring everyone has an enjoyable stay. They will assist guests to arrange their itineraries during their stay and liaise with our kitchen staff to arrange breakfast, lunch and evening meals times. ”
    If you read their job descriptions it gets worse. Such as “you will be responsible for
    ensuring that visitors have a perfect holiday” and the long list of your to-do things.

    That isn’t even in exchange for board’n’lodging because volunteers also have to pay an abusive $600US/month for that, in a shared “employee house”.

    So to sum it up, you will work a full time job AND pay them TWO TIMES the minimum wage salary (in Brazil – about $300US) for it.

    I guess as a joke they put up as one of their “ethical policies” for volunteers as:
    “REGUA does not use volunteers as an alternative to local employment.”

    Seriously?! Could someone please tell me what on earth is that and why is it recommended here?

    • Hey Aurora, Thanks for your concerns. I have looked over the requirements for REGUA and the issues you have raised. This is a tricky one and it would be great to hear from someone who has volunteered at this organization.

      I have not been to this organization but I have been to one in India that looks very similar on the surface (in terms of price related to cost of living in the country and annual income of the locals). When I left the organization after being there for a couple months, they asked for feedback. I suggested that they should charge their volunteers more. I thought the structure of the organization, what the offered volunteers and the project itself (for sustainability) warranted a higher price tag. I felt that the price I was paying was more than reasonable for the accommodation, food and experience. I also saw how some of the volunteers came and went and how some can be more of a burden than a help. They were using the organization as a home base and weren’t overly committed to the project. I think that a commitment, both time and financial, can result in better volunteers for the local organization.

      I agree with you that the requirements of this organization seem to be quite hefty and it looks like you are paying to work. I am not interested in that and for that reason I would look else where for an opportunity. But, there may be some people that are. We provide the resources for people to make their own decisions. It is up to the volunteer to do their due diligence and see if the opportunity is for them.

      Thanks for your concerns and we really appreciate your feedback. I think it is a great discussion as it is always difficult to decide on whether a project is charging a reasonable and justifiable amount. This is impossible to do from here in Canada without feedback from volunteers.

  23. Hi all,
    I highly recommend volunteering at ‘Reserva Mundo Verde’ (Green World Reserve) in the cloud forest of Ecuador. I had the time of my life there, doing conservation work in the forest, as well as learning farming skills such as milking a cow, making cheese, making panela (from sugarcane) and working in the organic gardens. The project has been having volunteers from all over the world for many years, so they know how to look after foreigners. It’s low cost for accommodation and food, and it’s really flexible so you can basically tailor your stay there to fit what activities you’re interested in. Check it out at http://www.reservamundoverde.com!

  24. We worked in partnership with this organization when we were in Puerto Lopez. The program is wonderful and it needs committed volunteers. You can make a difference and you won’t be disappointed as the town of Puerto Lopez is simply amazing.
    Thanks!

  25. Hello,

    We have an orphanage in Jocotepec, Mexico (approximately 35 minutes outside of Guadalajara). We provide shelter for abused, abandoned, and orphaned girls. Generally, we have between 15-20 girls ages 2-17. Our region is home to a large ex-pat community of Americans and Canadians. We frequently have Canadian volunteers and financial supporters. We are in need of volunteers (short and long-term) that want to work with our kids and help us maintain the premises. Would it be possible to get our organization listed on True Travellers?

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