CONSTRUCTION PROJECT IN Andean Communities

 Works in sustainable construction at a cozy community in the andean region, while supporting other areas such as education, community water management or community and ecotourism.

The project

Tucked away in the picturesque central highlands of Ecuador, this project stands as a beacon of hope, with a core mission of fostering sustainable development within low-income rural communities. These communities may lack material wealth, but they exude warmth, cultural vibrancy, and ecological diversity.

Here, a staggering 40% of the population struggles with poverty, a consequence of limited access to education, employment, healthcare, and infrastructure. The ramifications are evident in child malnutrition rates of 48%, teenage pregnancies at 26%, and an illiteracy rate of 10%.

Despite the challenges, 90% of the population proudly identifies as indigenous, with a rich cultural heritage and language. However, this heritage is at risk as the allure of urban life continues to draw the younger generation away.

Thus, this initiative serves as a hub for cultural exchange and social innovation, with a key focus on co-creating sustainable solutions that can uplift these marginalized rural communities. It also offers a profound educational experience for international participants eager to make a meaningful impact. This collaborative effort engages international volunteers, interns, students, and the local community to address a wide range of challenges. Since its inception in July 2021, it has left an indelible mark on the lives of hundreds through over 150 community workshops and events.

 

Dates/Length

Project available year-round.

Volunteer: 2 weeks to 6 months 

Internship: 12 weeks to 6 months

 

Costs

2 weeks – $1750
1 month – $2300
2 months – $3400
3 months – $4500
Each extra week  – $275

Location details

TThe location of the project is in the south-central Ecuadorian Andes, 5 hours from Quito. Accommodation is at the shared  project house, includes 2 meals per day: breakfast and dinner

Requirements

Spanish level: Depending on the working area.

Must be 18 and over, with valid passport and health insurance

Itinerary Sample

Mondays to Fridays:
7:30 breakfast
8:30 programing of the day, work in construction with adobe
12:40 – 14:00 lunch
14:00 work in construction with adobe
15:00 english classes/ 
18:00 dinner

1: No poverty

2: Zero hunger

3: Good health and well-being

4: Quality education

5: Gender equality

6: Clean water and sanitation

7: Affordable and clean energy

8: Decent work and economic growth

9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

10: Reduced inequalities

11: Sustainable cities and communities

12: Responsible consumption and

production

13: Climate action

14: Life below water

15: Life on land

16: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

17: Partnerships for the goals

6 classrooms rehabilitated

1 electrical installation for the entire school

10 classrooms and spaces illuminated thanks to the installation

1 water supply system created

1 daycare center established

30 infants and their families benefiting from the public daycare, which offers

8 hours of daily care, door-to-door transportation

3 daily meals for the children

  • Acquisition of practical skills in construction and infrastructure rehabilitation.
  • Learning sustainable construction techniques and the importance of preserving traditional methods.
  • Skills in the restoration and maintenance of adobe houses.
  • Appreciation of the importance of educational infrastructure in community development.

Role of the participant

Volunteers: Support the activities of the project such as building, community teaching, sustainable community projects, water management, general planning.

Interns: Planning and execution of the activities of your studies and/or experience area

Skills required

Applicants should be opened, flexible, open mind and eager to learn about a different lifestyle.  If you are doing an internship knowledge and experience in that specific area will be desirable.

What’s Included?

R

Accomodation

Available during the length of the project (Either at the project or local homestay families with 2 meals included)

R

Transfer from Quito to project

R

Aiport pick-up

EcuaExplora staff ready to transport you

R

Support 24 hours

On the ground EcuaExplora staff available

R

First weekend accomodation

In a hostal in Quito with breakfast

R

Orientation

(includes city tour and lunch)

Not Included

Q

Health insurance (REQUIRED)

Q

Meals not specified

Q

Transportation to/from the homestay to the project each day

Q

Optional extras

Add $60 per week for 6 hours Spanish classes if in Quito.

Sounds amazing? Want to be part of something important?

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