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?
Accomodation
Available during the length of the project (Either at the project or local homestay families with 2 meals included)
Transfer from Quito to project
Aiport pick-up
EcuaExplora staff ready to transport you
Support 24 hours
On the ground EcuaExplora staff available
First weekend accomodation
In a hostal in Quito with breakfast
Orientation
(includes city tour and lunch)
Not Included
Health insurance (REQUIRED)
Meals not specified
Transportation to/from the homestay to the project each day
Optional extras
Add $60 per week for 6 hours Spanish classes if in Quito.
