We are a non-profit organisation who provides educational; medical and nutritional support to some of Cajamarca’s most disadvantaged children and adolescent youth between the ages of 5 and 21. The children are all enrolled in local public schools; which they attend either in the morning or the afternoon. When they are not in classes; they come to our centre; a safe place where they can do their homework; participate in various fun and educational activities; and eat two warm and nutritious meals. The goal of our project is for our beneficiaries to complete Secondary School and with our support prepare for; gain entry into and continue their studies in the local Public University system.
Volunteers; local and foreign; are vital to the operation of the organisation’s activities. Under the guidance of our local staff; volunteers provide personalised assistance to students to help them improve their reading; writing; math and science skills. We also encourage volunteers to organize workshops; courses and excursions that are in line with their interests and skills so as to stimulate the children’s creativity. Volunteers may also visit the homes and schools of the children; accompanying the local staff with their reviews and evaluations. We ask that Volunteers be available to help between the hours of 8.30am and 5.00pm Monday through Friday. There are occasionally activities organized outside of these times; such as medical checkups; excursions and bake sales.
We welcome all volunteers who are eager to help out. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have about our program.
Cajamarca (northern Andes)
Year round
1 month minimum; no maximum time limit
Adults of both sexes 18+
The main characteristics that we look for are enthusiasm; compassion and a dedication to helping disadvantaged children. Though having past experience working or volunteering with children is an asset; we welcome individuals who are motivated to help out; enjoy working with children and are open to learning about a new culture. A basic knowledge of Spanish can be beneficial; though not mandatory.
We ask volunteers to contribute US$375 per month to cover the costs of accommodation; and breakfast and lunch with the children Monday through Friday. A portion of this donation also goes towards helping cover the operational costs of running the project. There are no additional volunteer fees; and the totality of the donation goes towards the program. Because we value volunteers who are able to dedicate themselves to our cause long-term; we have established a sliding contribution scale; whereby volunteers contribute US$375 monthly for the first three months; US$300 for months four to six; and US$225 for the seventh month onward.
