We are a small grassroots organization committed to supporting disadvantaged children and families around Santa Marta; Colombia. We provide services (education; psychological assistance; recreation); supplies (food; clothing; items for school and home); and information on nutrition; education; and childcare to families in Santa Marta’s poorest neighbourhoods.
Volunteer activities:
Since the foundation is not run from an office; most of the work is done independently or on-site working in Santa Marta’s poorest neighbourhoods. The ideal volunteer will be flexible and self-driven. Independent projects and ideas for the foundation and the neighbourhoods where we work are encouraged; though outside funding is needed. Examples include sports; music; dance or drama classes.
None
Santa Marta
Year round
2 weeks minimum
Teenagers; adults; seniors of both sexes
The main members of the foundation do not speak English; so at least basic Spanish is necessary for all volunteers. (An advanced level of Spanish is required for the Afternoon English Class activity). We can help you out with Spanish lessons from local teachers at discounted prices. To legally volunteer with us; it is now required for foreigners to have a volunteer visa: the TP6 Visa for long-term volunteers (2 months or more); or PIP-6 for short-term volunteers (2 months or less). We aren’t accepting volunteers without visa or permission. Please visit our website for further information.
There is a one-time; non-refundable US$80 administration fee for all volunteers. This fee goes directly to supporting our foundation and helps pay for the costs of local staff; internet; telephone calls; photocopies; staff transportation; materials for the education program and construction projects. We can recommend affordable places to stay and can arrange homestays; Spanish tutoring sessions; and Salsa classes. Homestays cost around US$9 per night which includes two meals per day; laundry and internet access. Hostel accommodation costs from about US$5 to about US$8 per person per night.
