Want to make your travel and volunteering truly meaningful? Then sign up today for this rewarding program working with disadvantaged children and youth in Mexico. Set in historic Oaxaca, a beautiful city with 16th century architecture, this glorious façade hides the true struggle faced in this poverty-stricken region. The most indigenous region of Mexico, tourists flock here for the cultural tapestry, surf beaches, friendly people and beautiful landscapes, however the vast majority of children face hardship, their families living below the poverty line. Many of the children are orphaned, some living on the streets or going from home to home. Their situations have been made worse again more recently by the severe impact of Covid-19 on these indigenous peoples.
This volunteer program is based in a registered not-for-profit centre in the heart of this beautiful city. It works directly with local families to assess their need level, then assists each child on their journey from kindergarten through to graduating university to give them the daily structure, medical and emotional support and financial aid needed to allow these children to receive the education, and chance at a better life, they deserve.
If you know a little Spanish, love working with children and youth, and want to make a real difference to the lives, and futures of others, sign up today!
Airport: Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX), Oaxaca
The turtle conservation program is available all year with arrivals every Saturday. The program’s duration is 1 week to 8 weeks depending on your preference. If you wish to stay longer than 8 weeks this can be arranged with the local team.
Volunteers are accommodated in a special volunteer house
Our prices don’t include flights, travel insurance, visas or vaccinations, but we can provide information and support on obtaining these. You may also need additional spending money to purchase additional foods and snacks, local transport, weekend tours and excursions, and return airport transfer.
You’ll be playing a vital role on this critical program to support the everyday needs of impoverished local children and youth, and to ensure they have the chance to complete their education. With more than 800 local students on the program, the centre provides social services, school uniforms and shoes, school fees, tuition, school supplies and a lunch program (to ensure the children have a hot meal each day).
As a volunteer you’ll be working directly with the children who attend the centre for tutoring after school and on weekends, to use the computer lab (a luxury) and library, access free medical and dental services and more. You’ll help them with their homework, particularly maths, English, reading and writing. If you have some artistic flair – get to work! The children love creative and imaginative play of any kind, and crave attention from volunteers, which helps to build their confidence and sense of self-worth. You’ll also be encouraged to participate with the children in cultural celebrations, including Day of the Dead and Dia de Reyes. Volunteers could also support the centre’s office, taking photos and promoting the program to attract more volunteers and sponsors.
During the months of June, July and August volunteers assist with back to school preparations, assembling school kits, taking photos and delivering kits and shoes to children’s homes. Come join us in Oaxaca, where you’ll be changing the lives of children in need while experiencing the heart and culture of these amazing people.
