We have two positions available for long term volunteers (minimum of six months commitment): Education Coordinator / Teacher and Community Small Business Development Specialist.
A1. Education Coordinator / Teacher
This role involves coordinating and effectively implementing the Andean Alliance educational programs. Some of the programs have been in use since 2005 and others since 2009. Programs consist of: assisting at the local school ( Rivas ) with 30 children between 3 and 12 years of age and providing support to reading activities, computer skills development, fine motor skills, team work, self-esteem, math, arts and music in addition to working with the 2 teachers to help them develop new skills. This is one morning a week.
Next, an Early Childhood Stimulation program for children 3-5 years of age with the goal of encouraging pregnant mothers and those with younger children to attend. These “fun classes” are held in the newly constructed educational building of the Yurac Yacu Community Development Center and are provided 4 mornings a week.
The classes focus on developing early childhood skills including pattern, shape, color, number and letter recognition, hand dexterity, self-awareness and self-esteem using creative and playful methods. Mothers are involved to foster greater understanding at home of the child’s development needs and use of the exercises. Montessori and early childhood stimulation concepts and materials are used.
Creative and Educational classes are offered for primary students during their 2-3 month school break. Emphasis is on reinforcing their year long school activities in reading, writing and general comprehension. This is combined with art, play and music to help them utilize what they are learning. In addition, for secondary students, a supplementary English class is held to help with their homework and general understanding of the language.
With the exception of the Rivas School, all attendance is voluntary. The aim of the program is for continued, long term development of the children’s education, and to compliment and enhance their formal education provided at local schools.
Length of Commitment
This position benefits from a long-term commitment (e.g. minimum of 6 months) but teaching assistance would be welcomed on a shorter-term basis (e.g. minimum of 4 weeks).
We have planned programs of activities for 6 months to a year in advance, as prepared by the previous long-term volunteers. These however can be modified to take advantage of a particular teacher’s skill base and unforeseen needs within the student group. There are also records for logging the progress of each child. However, fresh and useful ideas are always welcome so there is scope to improve the system that is currently in place.
Essential skills required
- A desire and ability to communicate with children and adults, both independently and within a team setting
- Ability to communicate in Spanish and English
- Prior teaching experience
- Experience in effective organizational skills and ability to prioritize workloads
- Ability in teaching activities to children in a foreign language
- Ability to research and implement appropriate activities for children
Desirable skills
- Computer skills
- Desire or ability to fundraise
Costs
Costs for volunteering differ for each volunteer. This is based on length of time committed to the project, the skill set brought with them and ability to fund raise. For more details please contact us.
We also run the Lazy Dog Inn and as you will likely be joining us for meals it would be appreciated if you could help out with some work e.g. helping to prepare dinner, lay the table etc. if required.
Apply for this volunteer position here.
B1. Community Small Business Development Specialist
The Yurac Yacu Community Development Center, now under construction, will house two small community businesses including: the Yurac Yacu Restaurant/Café and the Yurac Yacu Mountain Expedition Services Office. Many local residents have the raw skills, experience and commitment to make these businesses successful. However they require technical assistance and training to legally register their business, establish basic administration, accounting and business planning systems and to develop good customer service skills.
We´re looking for a volunteer with small business and entrepreneurial passion, skills and experience who will take community members through the process of establishing, planning, marketing and managing their small businesses. This would include sourcing local courses and small business support programs offered by Peruvian organizations, as well as providing coordination and hands on training to residents.
Length of Commitment
This position requires a minimum commitment of 6 months.
Essential skills required
- Ability to communicate in Spanish and English
- Ability to communicate well with adults and work within a team
- Prior business management training and experience
- Experience in effective organizational skills and ability to prioritize workloads
Desirable skills
- Prior teaching experience
- Marketing Experience
Costs
Costs for volunteering differ for each volunteer. This is based on length of time committed to the project, the skill set brought with them and ability to fund raise. For more details please contact us.
We also run the Lazy Dog Inn and as you will likely be joining us for meals it would be appreciated if you could help out with some work e.g. helping to prepare dinner, lay the table etc. if required.