Mexico Rural Development

Though Mexico’s countryside constitutes more than 80% of Mexico’s land and houses nearly 36% of the country’s population, it represents just a small share of its economy. Rural areas tend to be poor, with few jobs and less access to government services. A series of organizations, including those listed below, are attempting to bridge the divide between city and country.

The Auris Project, P.O. Box 201731, San Antonio, TX 78220 USA (☎210-462-9032, 866-274-8814; www.aurisproject.org). Development projects with an emphasis on information access. 1- to 2-month volunteer program led by an international journalist in the Altiplano Potosino for US$600 per month. Room and board included.
Habitat for Humanity Mexico, Soria No. 47 Colonia Alamos, Del. Benito Juárez, Mexico D.F. 03400, Mexico (☎55 5519 0113; in the US 229 924 6935; www.habitat.org, www.habitatmexico.org in Spanish). 1-week stays in Mexico to build houses in a host community. Costs range US$1300-2500, not including airfare.
WWOOF Mexico, (in Mexico City ☎55 5437 622, outside Mexico city 045 55 5437 6228; www.argos.net.mx/wwoof). Puts members in contact with organic farms offering work in exchange for room and board. Joint Mexico membership with Costa Rica $20.

More Volunteering in Mexico

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