General Info
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Volunteers work six to eight hours a day in a variety of activities. To protect the reserve, they participate in basic construction, reforestation and trail maintenance assignments. Volunteers are also involved in agroforestry and organic farming initiatives. Tasks include maintaining medicinal gardens, working in tree nurseries and participating in activities like cacao harvesting, compost maintenance and seed collection. Volunteers also help raise animals like capybaras and caymans that locals can use as alternative protein and income sources. Additionally, depending on the time of year, volunteers participate in extension projects with the local Quichua community to make handicrafts and teach in local schools.
COST INCLUDES
Among other services, the cost includes:
Preparation Briefing
The briefing offers you a wealth of information and helpful tips to prepare you for your trip.
UBELONG Mentor
UBELONG pairs you with a UBELONG Mentor, a highly experienced member of their team who works closely with you throughout your UBELONG experience.
Safety Meeting
Prior to your departure, you have a meeting with your UBELONG Mentor. You go over staying safe during your placement, as well as tips for getting the most out of your experience. The meetings generally occur over the phone or Skype, but if you are in the same location as your UBELONG Mentor they can occur in person.
Airport pickup
Orientation
The UBELONG local team leader gives you an orientation to go over everything from getting around to the work that you will be doing.
Housing
You live with other volunteers in a safe, comfortable and welcoming home in your community.
Food
You receive breakfast, lunch and dinner every day.
24/7 in-country support
Throughout your placement, UBELONG works with its local team leaders to provide you with any assistance that you may need.
Fundraising and networking
UBELONG holds fundraising and networking events throughout the year to support development initiatives. Join UBELONG online, in Washington, DC or wherever in the world we are holding an event.
COST DOES NOT INCLUDE
Airfare, travel medical insurance and miscellaneous spending like souvenirs, taxis, etc.
Benefits:
Program fees from US$390 (2 wks) to US$2,520 (6 mos)
Requirements:
-The health and physical capability to live and do manual work in a tropical environment with few amenities.
-The flexibility to participate in many different activities depending on the season and ever-changing needs of the reserve.
-Education and/or professional experience in an environment-related field is not required.
