Volunteering Projects in Costa Rica

Description

The Global Volunteer Network currently has opportunities to work in turtle rescue projects along Costa Rica's Pacific and Caribbean coasts.

You can become involved in a variety of community and conservation projects in Costa Rica. With such a variety of projects this program has something to suit everyone.

Turtle Projects
You have the opportunity to contribute to turtle conservation, orphanage, teaching, construction, healthcare, and agricultural projects.

There are a variety of programs working with two species of turtles, the Leatherback and Olive Ridley; between them these programs run year round. The programs give you the chance to make an important contribution to the preservation of these species. This includes assisting NGOs and local communities who carry out conservation work. You will also gain first-hand knowledge about Costa Rica's biodiversity and its culture. Volunteers will work with Leatherback turtles between January and July and Olive Ridley Turtles between August and December.

Orphanage & Childcare

At the orphanage and childcare placements, volunteers will organise a variety of activities for the children, and assist with their school work. Volunteers are encouraged to use their skills and interests to develop music and dance, jewellery making, aerobics and arts & crafts work shops.

Teaching English

At teaching English placements volunteers will teach children of all ages, and will also participate in cultural activities, health campaigns and recreational games.

Construction

Volunteers will work on one of our construction projects based in and around San Jose. These include renovation work (painting, plastering and repairs) and full construction projects (carpentry, masonry, laying tiles and plumbing).

Coffee Cooperative

In our Coffee cooperative program, volunteers will assist with the sustainable production of coffee in a rural farming community, in the mountainous region of Costa Rica. Volunteers will assist with coffee-picking in the fields, roasting the beans and packaging the final product, alongside wider agricultural activities.

Healthcare - Health Education

Volunteers will work in either a residence for HIV positive people, or in an assisted living facility for very low income elderly residents. At the HIV residence, volunteers will provide companionship to patients and providing general help in the on-site clinic.

Healthcare - Community Clinics

Volunteers work at a clinic for low-income families. This project is for med students, pre-med students and qualified nurses or doctors.

Requirements:
As a volunteer in Costa Rica you must:

* Be at least 18 years of age.
* Have no major health problems
* A reasonable level of fitness is required for the Turtle and Construction programs
* A medical qualification may be required for the Healthcare program
* Basic Spanish for the Turtle program, intermediate Spanish for Healthcare program

Requirements

Language

English