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Why Volunteer?

MAKING THE DIFFERENCE

Volunteering will make a difference. People in developing countries in South America face increasingly difficult obstacles. The environment is under threat by expanding industry and population growth. Erratic management practices and weak government provide little job or food security and poor education. Jobs are scarce and the gap between rich and poor continues to expand. Local communities sometimes have little choice but to engage in unsustainable activities, such as primary timber harvesting, to keep food on the table. De-forestation breeds soil erosion and lose which decreases the ability to grow food.

The organizations that we work with are trying to reverse this downward cycle. They purchase land and/or run programs to enable local communities to undertake re-forestation or eco-tourism projects that provide jobs and income. These organizations teach English, environmental education or new techniques to complement native skills in areas such as agro-forestry and sustainable agriculture. Your help will directly contribute to this.

GAINING KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

If you are looking to gain experience before entering the job market or considering a career change, a volunteer position is your chance to learn field skills. These may include tracking wildlife, preparing biological inventories, field research, plant conservation, agroforestry and reserve maintenance. Teaching English and environmental education at local schools are other fulfilling options.

A volunteer position is also a chance to see if you enjoy the work of a planned career without committing years of your life to it. Whatever your plans, prospective employers see volunteering as a positive trait in job applicants. It could be the difference that makes you stand out from the rest.

CONNECTING WITH THE WORLD

Volunteering is a unique opportunity to live and work with local people in thier native surroundings. You will have the chance to learn skills, often long forgotten in the western world, that get the job done whilst minimising the global footprint. It is a chance to step out and take a look at other cultures and civilisations. Some time out can provide a useful time to re-evaluate what is important to you and what you want from life.

Many of our volunteer positions mean that you are living in a reserve. These protected areas are rich in outstanding natural beauty. They also offer marvelous possibilites to see wildlife at close quarters.