Costa Rica Youth And The Community

Not the rugged, outdoor activity type? There are many organizations that offer opportunities beyond working in national parks or rainforests. Many rural communities of Costa Rica live in poverty, with low-quality schools, health care, and resources. The programs listed below operate community service projects in some of these small villages.

Alliances Abroad, 1221 South Mopac Expressway, Ste. 100, Austin, TX, USA (☎+1 866-6ABROAD/622-7623; www.allianceabroad.com). Language classes followed by between 2 and 12 weeks of volunteer work in social services, humanitarian organizations, women’s services, health care, environment, or national parks. Fees start at US$1300 for 2 weeks in the program.
Amigos de las Americas, 5618 Star Ln., Houston, TX 77057, USA (☎+1 800-231-7796; www.amigoslink.org). Sends high school and college students in groups of 2-3 to work in rural Latin American communities for up to 8 weeks. 2 years of high-school Spanish or equivalent instruction required. Costs average US$3990, airfare included.
Centro de Educación Creativo (Creative Learning Center), Apdo. 23-5655, Monteverde, Puntarenas (☎2645 5161; www.cloudforestschool.org). A private English immersion environmental education program for pre-school to grade 11 students. Volunteers who commit at least 3 months assist teachers in classrooms. Short-term (3-week min.) volunteers can work on outdoor projects but not in the classroom.
Cross-Cultural Solutions, 2 Clinton Pl., New Rochelle, NY 10801, USA (☎+1 800-380-4777 or 914-632-0022; www.crossculturalsolutions.org). Operates 2- to 12-week humanitarian programs in health care, child care, education, social development, and disability assistance. Dorm-style accommodations and all meals included. Fees start at US$2588 for 2 weeks of service.
Global Routes, 1 Short St., Northampton, MA 01060, USA (☎+1 413-585-8895; www.globalroutes.org). College and high school students teach English, promote environmental awareness, and construct health clinics, playgrounds, and schoolhouses for 1-3 months. 1-year Spanish instruction required. 17+. Fees start at US$5450.
Habitat for Humanity International (☎2296 3436 in San José; www.habitatcostarica.org). The Global Village Program builds houses for 1-3 weeks. Minimum donation US$200. US$20 per day transportation and homestay fee. Basic Spanish required.
Peace Corps (☎800-424-8580; www.peacecorps.gov). Opportunities in agriculture, social development, sustainable communities, and health care in 74 developing nations. Projects in Costa Rica focus on rural community development and the education and training of youth. 2-year min. commitment, plus 3 months training.