Volunteer Abroad in La Serena Chile

La Serena, in northern Chile, is the country's second-oldest town. La Serena maintains a Spanish neo-colonial style according to the "Plan Serena" implemented by the Chilean government, which allowed the city to grow yet keep its own unique style. The heritage of the city includes over 30 churches, a romantic avenue of replica classical Italian statues, elegant colonial buildings and numerous gardens and parks.

La Serena is a pretty colonial town with a population of about 120,000. It is the capital city of Coquimbo Province, located about 250 miles north of the Chilean capital of Santiago. From here you can reach the Elqui Valley, famous for producing "Pisco", (the traditional drink of choice in the Andes), and for being one of the world's major astronomical centers due to its clear skies (Tololo, Campanas and Silla Observatories).

The surrounding area has the greatest concentration of astronomical observatories in the world.

Known as the The City of Bell Towers and the City of Carnations, La Serena is a warm, friendly coastal town offering a wealth of history, pleasant year round weather and many nearby attractions (Vicuña, Ovalle, Gabriela Mistral, Punta Choros).

We offer the following programs in La Serena: (1- 4 week placements with optional start date)

Program Length : 1 to 4 weeks
Program Date: Flexible Start & End Date
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8 hour per day
Accommodations: Local guesthouse or homestay
Meals: Yes, 3 meals a day
Requirements: 18 years + , Basic Spanish knowledge, an able body and caring spirit.

Social/Welfare Service: We have partnerships with local NGO's and private institutions that support the improvement of living conditions of children. Volunteers work at a local children's home which doubles as an orphanage and day care. The children range in age from infancy to 12yrs old, some with mild handicaps. Volunteers assist the local staff with the basic needs such as feeding, bathing and clothing; as well arrange games and day trips with the kids. Basic Spanish is required, as well as a positive and flexible attitude.

Education/Teaching: A recently stated goal of the Chilean Ministry of Education is that Chile must become a fully bilingual country. English is taught in all schools from the first to the twelfth grades. English teaching assistants will work closely with Chilean English teachers. We have teaching placements in several small (primary and secondary) schools in La Serena. Volunteers do not need previous teaching experience, although it would be helpful. Basic Spanish is required, as well as a positive and flexible attitude.

Program Includes: Private accommodations at a local Spanish colonial style guesthouse or homestay option including breakfast & dinner daily. Airport transfers on arrival and departure. Our local Project Coordinators will provide HD orientation & La Serena city tour with lunch, introduction and placement in a volunteer work project. Half day (4 hours) Spanish language lessons. The project coordinator is available 24/7 in case of emergency, health-related or otherwise. They can assist in arranging sightseeing excursion before, during or after the volunteer program.