Post on 22-Jun-2020
Our DestinationsHelp secure the futures of communities in Costa Rica, Ghana and Thailand
Teaching English / Sports Education / Orphanage Work
Environmental Conservation / Community Development / Building & Construction
Turtle Conservation / Special Needs / Animal Conservation
Daycare Center Supervision / Spanish Language Course
Free -1.877.549.8638 uvolunteer.net
Destination GuideCosta Rica 2017-18
VOLuNTEER ABROAD iN COSTA RiCA uVOLuNTEER
Make friends, make a difference... make a start
Discover Pura Vida
Volunteer in Costa Rica
At uVolunteer, our values are at the core of everything we do. We’re proud to be different and it’s our volunteers who shape the unique service we offer. When you decide to make a difference with uVolunteer, we guarantee you the trip of a lifetime.
We work to a set of values that ensure maximum
benefit for our volunteers and the communities we
serve, continuously monitoring all placements for
sustainability and success.
Respect foR all
Mutual respect ensures the longevity of our projects
in Costa Rica, allowing volunteers to experience
authentic community and cultural exposure in the
process.
pRofessional seRvice
Our trips are organized by experienced,
knowledgeable former volunteers for a uniquely
professional yet personal service.
safety and secuRity
The safety and security of our volunteers is
paramount – uVolunteer’s in-country staff are experts
in Costa Rican culture and customs.
economical and efficient
Our volunteer trips are ethically and economically
designed to keep costs down while covering all the
necessities.
Varied volunteer travel and tours:
ā Individual, group and family trips
ā Durations from one week to a year
ā Dedicated in-country support staff
ā All nationalities welcomed
ā Flexible arrival dates every month
ā Gap year, sabbatical and study trips
ā An alternative vacation/Spring Break
ā Volunteers aged 18 or over welcomed
ā Combination programs and discounts
ā Personalized programs
Why uVolunteerAuthentic, affordable adventures
puRa vida
Welcome to the land of Pura Vida – or Pure Life. In Costa Rica, this famous phrase is an expression of happiness, as well as a greeting; embark on an unforgettable volunteer trip with uVolunteer and discover the true meaning of Pura Vida for yourself.
A beautiful, unspoiled country, Costa Rica has a
thriving tourism industry and growing economy;
volunteers like you can help Costa Rica adapt to
modern life and safeguard its future, while preserving
the rich culture and biodiversity the country is so
well-known for.
Specializing in affordable, ethical travel to Costa
Rica, Ghana and Thailand, uVolunteer has sent
hundreds of volunteers to Costa Rica to lend a
helping hand with projects such as teaching English
and sports, building and construction, environmental
preservation and animal conservation.
If you’re ready to make a valuable difference in the
world, uVolunteer is ready to put your plans into
action, and we’re with you every step of the way.
IntroductionThe time of your life is now
This experience has been so
amazing it is hard to put into words
- I never expected to learn and grow
so much as a person. Out of all of
the volunteer companies I looked
at, I am so glad uVolunteer was my
choice
Lauren Pudvah, 22, United States
Make friends, make a difference...
make a start
contents
Costa Rica Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Free Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Exploring Costa Rica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Location: San Ramon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Making a difference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Teaching English . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Sports Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Special Needs Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Daycare Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Community Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Building and Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Spanish Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
How to apply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
FAQs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Genreal Information Brochure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
3WWW.uvolunteeR.net
uvolunteer
2
Costa Rica has a rich culture all its own, largely untouched by Western influences. Along with its beautiful biodiversity and inspirational landscapes, Costa Rica’s unique rich, traditional culture is a major attraction for visitors looking to experience a new way of life.
Spanish colonization in the 16th century gave
the nation a distinctly warm and welcoming
Mediterranean vibe but the country retains its
multicultural roots, home to indigenous Native
American mountain tribes and influenced by
neighboring Caribbean cultures.
tico cultuRe
Known as ‘Tico’ culture, Costa Rica’s friendly,
laidback attitude is a world away from the
‘everything, now’ culture that dominates modern
Western society. In Costa Rica, the term ‘Pura Vida’
– or ‘pure life’ – characterizes the culture as one of
happiness and overall contentment with life.
What to RemembeR
As a visitor to Costa Rica, you may find some
customs and behaviors different from your
experiences back home.
in costa Rica:
Greet others with a firm handshake; or friends and acquaintances with a light kiss on the cheek
Men do not usually greet other men with a kiss but can greet women in this way
Exercise tolerance and patience for lateness at social functions
Avoid reacting to harmless expressions of appreciation from those who may whistle or flirt
Be aware that machismo culture is dominant in Costa Rica
Culture & CustomsTraditions, tribes and Ticos
COuntRy pROfIle
location: Central America
Capital: San Jose
population: 4, 805, 000
Official language: Spanish
Currency: Colon (COL)
Climate: Temperate tropical
national dish: Gallo Pinto
Max. Weekday Budget: $10 daily
Daily Weekend Budget: $70 daily
A small country with huge appeal, Costa Rica is famous for its vibrant culture and breath-taking natural beauty. In fact, more than a quarter of the country is national parkland, comprising varied environments from tropical rainforest and soft, sandy beaches to volcanoes and mountainous terrain.
Rich in biodiversity, Costa Rica is home to fascinating
animals, including big cats, monkeys, turtles, sloths
and hundreds of bird species, as well as a wealth
of reptiles and amphibians. It is the beauty of the
country’s nature and landscapes - coupled with rich
ethnic culture and history - that has led to a booming
tourist trade, yet Costa Rica is a developing nation
requiring investment in education and training to
keep up with its growing economy.
For almost a decade, uVolunteer has worked with
communities in Costa Rica on projects that provide
skills support and hands-on help where it is needed
most.
English language tuition, environmental preservation
and community development are all key areas of
growth in Costa Rica - when you join a uVolunteer
project, your dedication and commitment can change
lives and safeguard the future of this beautiful nation
for generations to come.
Costa Rica OverviewBreath-taking beauty; colorful culture
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
5WWW.uvolunteeR.net
uvolunteer
4
exploringCosta RicaYour placement location
mOntezuma & santa teResa
Surfing, snorkeling, waterfalls and nightlife
manuel antOnIO
Rare wildlife, watersports and white-sand beaches
pueRtO VIejO
Caribbean flavors, abundant wildlife and adventure
tORtuGueRO
The land of turtles is an unspoiled paradise
free TimeWork hard; play hard
fResh flavoRs
After a long day of volunteering, there’s nothing better than tucking into some Costa Rican cuisine, which is typically fresh, hearty and delicious. Breakfast usually consists of bread, fruit, eggs and rice and beans, while dinner comprises meat – often chicken – beans, rice, vegetables and starchy foods. The national dish, Gallo Pinto, is a combination of rice, beans and spices, and is served with almost every meal. Unlike many other Latin American nations, Costa Rican food is not spicy.
unique beats
Costa Rica’s diverse music is a key part of the
country’s compelling culture. Known for the rhythm
tambito and the genre aspunto, local music is folksy
with Spanish and Caribbean influences.
Western music, hip-hop, disco and reggaeton are
popular among younger residents, while the older
generations and more traditional citizens tend to
prefer folk, calypso, merengue and salsa.
days off - What to do?
Whether you want to experience the majesty of the
active Arenal Volcano, zip-line through the cloud
forests or admire San Jose’s colonial architecture,
Costa Rica caters for all tastes.
Costa Rica is a compact country with efficient
transport links, making it easy to get around and see
the sights.
Most of our projects are based in centrally-located
San Ramon and volunteers have three free days per
week, giving you plenty of time off to explore.
VOlCanO aRenal
National parks, hot springs and canyoning
mOnteVeRDe
Lush natural environments and unforgettable views
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
7WWW.uvolunteeR.net
uvolunteer
6
AccommodationDormsFoundations for friendship
The uVolunteer dorms become homes from home for our volunteers, providing a comfortable, safe base for your trip. Here, you’ll stay with like-minded volunteers from across the world, building global friendships.
Our dorms in Costa Rica comprise between three
and five single-sex bedrooms with bunk beds,
western washroom facilities, modern kitchens and
useful conveniences including landline telephones,
free Wi-Fi Internet access, security systems and a
subsidized laundry service.
Located just a few minutes away from the center of
San Ramon, the dorms are within easy reach of all
amenities and public transport links.
Within the dorm, you’ll have the opportunity to get to
know your fellow volunteers, as well as our in-country
staff, who live very close by and visit the dorm daily.
Attentive and supportive, our staff will be on hand
round the clock day and night to deal with any queries
you may have, or to facilitate cultural exchange.
Volunteers staying in our dorms will be served a local
breakfast and dinner daily, with vegetarian and other
dietary needs accommodated. You can prepare your
own lunches at the dorms or use the opportunity to
sample the cuisine at a local restaurant.
conseRvation pRojects
If you’re joining our Sea Turtle Project, you won’t be
placed in our San Ramon dorms; your base will be on
the designated beach where your project is located.
Accommodation will be more of a camp setting and
dorms may be mixed sex and fully or partially closed
with no electricity. Animal conservation volunteers
will be accommodated in home stays close to their
project location in rural San Carlos de Alajuela.
locationSan RamonAuthentic Costa Rican culture
When you book a volunteer trip to Costa Rica with uVolunteer, we guarantee you an authentic cultural experience away from the beaten tourist track. Most of our projects are based in or around the large coffee town of San Ramon, nestled in the mountains of the Central Valley.
Known as the town of presidents and poets, San
Ramon has produced some famous former residents,
including one of Costa Rica’s best-loved poets
Lisimaco Chavarria. The university town is also
renowned for its picturesque beauty, rich heritage
and vibrant nightlife.
San Ramon is a unique combination of age-old
traditions and modern living; expect to see colorful
sidewalk art as you explore the streets of this laidback
town. San Ramon’s central location means the town
is within easy reach of the international airport Juan
Santamaria (SJO) and Costa Rica’s capital, San Jose.
Local transport links into the capital and all corners
of the country are reliable and regular, so it’s easy to
explore all of Costa Rica’s unmissable sights.
animal conseRvation
Animal Conservation volunteers are based in a rural
San Carlos (Cuidad Quesada) in Alajuela Province.
tuRtle conseRvation
Turtle Conservation volunteers are located at the
dedicated turtle camp on the north or central Pacific
coast of Costa Rica.
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
9WWW.uvolunteeR.net
uvolunteer
8
Costa Rica is one of the world’s top destinations for eco-tourism, with its diversely beautiful environment and wildlife attracting around 2.5 million visitors every year. This tourism boom means Costa Rica’s economy is growing significantly, yet around a fifth of the population lives in poverty.
There is an increasing need for skills
and education to enable the country
to keep pace with its developing
economy, safeguarding its future for
generations to come.
Volunteers like you can make a real
difference to communities in Costa
Rica, assisting in areas like education,
teaching English and developing or
renovating homes for low-income
families.
Costa Rica also needs help protecting
its biggest attractions: the natural
environment and native wildlife.
Poaching is a problem, especially for
the country’s turtle species, some of
which are now critically endangered.
Through uVolunteer, you can provide
safe habitats for these animals and
ensure newly-hatched turtles complete
their journey to the ocean.
For almost a decade, uVolunteer
has arranged flexible, affordable
volunteering trips to Costa Rica’s most
in-need communities; be a part of our
meaningful and worthwhile projects and
feel the difference.
pRojects include
ā Teaching English
ā Sports Education
ā Special Needs School
ā Daycare Center
ā Community Education
ā Building and Construction
ā Spanish Language
Making a difference Do good - feel good
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
11WWW.uvolunteeR.net
uvolunteer
10
Teaching English Costa Rica’s thriving tourism industry means English language skills are more in demand now than ever before. Join uVolunteer’s Teaching English Project and you’ll help children and adults develop conversational English and improve their prospects.
Being able to speak English is increasingly desirable
among Costa Rican employers; with your help,
students will have wider employment opportunities,
and a greater chance at achieving a good quality of
life as a result.
Working alongside English teachers in local high
schools, elementary schools and community classes,
you’ll help children and adults with pronunciation,
vocabulary, everyday language use and
conversational skills, building students’ confidence.
You’ll also have the opportunity to take classes,
creating loose lesson plans that focus on practical
use of the English language. You don’t need any
teaching experience or qualifications to volunteer
for the project and will receive initial training and
direction from your volunteer coordinator.
Classes are held in schools throughout San Ramon
during the day and adult lessons take place at
various locations in the evening, with many sessions
held in the relaxed setting of the uVolunteer dorms.
main duties
Assisting teachers with grammar and conversation lessons
Planning and teaching lessons for adults in community classes
Encouraging practical conversational skills
Assisting with classroom activities
Assisting with community class social activities
testing and grading students based on results
quick RefeRence Guide
Placement location: San Ramon, Alajuela
Minimum trip duration: 4 weeks
education types: Elementary/high school,
community classes, adult classes
Age of students: From 5 to 50+
Minimum age of volunteers: 18
Role: English teacher/assistant
Language requirements: Basic to intermediate
Spanish
Dress code: Smart casual
Suitable for groups: Yes
Suitable for families: No
WoRk schedule
Monday to Thursday. Your school placement location
will depend on the duration of your trip: Elementary/high school placements: Minimum duration: four
weeks. Hours: 7am until 1pm. Community education
classes: Minimum duration of two weeks. Hours:
2pm until 5pm.
Adult community classes: Minimum duration of two
weeks. Hours are from 6.30pm until 8.30pm.
notes
Ý Volunteers booking a trip of two or three weeks on
the Teaching English Project will work within adult
community classes in the evening and may also
teach community education English workshops
Ý Project closed dates are from the second week of
December until the second week of February and for
one week preceding Easter Sunday. There is also a
mid-term break for the first two weeks of July
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
13
Project guide
12 WWW.uvolunteeR.net
I had no idea what to expect - my initial
reaction was shock at how understaffed
the school was and how much more could
be done to help the kids achieve their full
potential. As volunteers, our goal was simply
to be a friend and set a positive example; I
would go back in a heartbeat
BRyan DuGOnG21 yeaRs, CanaDa
In Costa Rica, sports education is both important and mandatory. A strong focus on literacy and limited school budgets can, however, mean that the physical education element of the curriculum doesn’t match up to the high standards of PE in Western nations.
Join a uVolunteer Sports Education Project and help
schools throughout San Ramon develop and improve
their physical education programs for third to sixth-
grade children. Resources are limited, which means
volunteers need to be ready to apply creative thought
and self-motivation to classes.
Most local schools don’t employ full-time sports
teachers and our volunteers aren’t required to have
any professional sports or teaching qualifications
to join the project. There will always be a teacher
available for supervision and language help, however,
so all that’s necessary is a passion for sports that
you’re willing to share with children and young
people.
As a volunteer, your time and effort is invaluable in
a number of ways; your dedication can encourage
youngsters to take part in sporting activities while
conserving school budgets for more urgent matters.
Help foster a love of sport among students in
unprivileged areas and open their eyes to how fun
and rewarding fitness can be.
main duties
planning and delivering lessons under the supervision of a qualified teacher
assisting teachers in preparing sports classes
Encouraging physical activity among students
teaching children about new sports
Assisting and taking part in sports training and inter-school competitions
assisting with school event days
supervising children during recession and lunch
quick RefeRence Guide
Placement location: San Ramon, Alajuela
Minimum trip duration: 4 weeks
Minimum age of volunteers: 18
Role: Sports teacher/assistant
Age of students: From 8 to 12
Language requirements: Intermediate Spanish
Dress code: Modest sportswear
Suitable for groups: No
Suitable for families: No
WoRk schedule
Volunteers joining our Sports Education Project
usually work four days per week, from Monday to
Thursday. On these days, you’ll take classes between
7am and 12pm local time, or from 1pm until 3pm.
Some schools have slightly different schedules.
notes
Ý If you have a particular skill or experience of a
specific sport, feel free to share your knowledge with
the pupils you teach
Ý Project closed dates are from the second week of
December until the second week of February and for
one week preceding Easter Sunday. There is also a
mid-term break for the first two weeks of July
Ý Please check the uVolunteer website for details of
any Costa Rican national holidays
sports education
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
15
Project guide
14 WWW.uvolunteeR.net
sCOtt aDams21 yeaRs, unIteD states It's a great feeling knowing that, even for
just a short period of time, you impacted
a group of people in a very positive way.
The students enjoyed doing anything that
allowed them to run around, and the more
we as volunteers joined in the games, the
more they wanted to bond and interact
Special needs education is just as important in Costa Rica as it is back home, the only difference being the lack of resources available compared with Western nations. Volunteer your help with uVolunteer and you’ll be giving children and adults with special needs the time and attention they deserve.
Working within the San Ramon area, our Special
Needs Education Project is delivered at three semi-
government funded centers for children and adults.
Resources at the special needs centers are limited,
so the time and effort our volunteers spare is greatly
appreciated.
The local centers provide basic education and other
services like language therapy, art classes, vocational
training and physiotherapy for children and adults
with special needs like autism, Asperger’s syndrome
and blindness.
Our volunteers provide staff at the centers with the
extra help they need and enrich the lives of special
needs students with fun activities and learning
support.
It’s not necessary to have any prior experience when
you join up to the project – the only skills you need
are patience and dedication; our Special Needs
Education Project is one of the most rewarding
placements we offer.
main duties
Assisting teachers with classes and program development
Performing a variety of tasks, including feeding and basic care
Setting up and taking part in outdoor games
Being a role model for the center’s pupils
Helping out at recess
Helping students during social activities
Introducing relevant skills you have to the center
quick RefeRence Guide
Placement location: San Ramon, Alajuela
Minimum trip duration: 4 weeks
Minimum age of volunteers: 18
Role: Special needs education assistant
Age of students: From 5 to 60
Language requirements: Intermediate Spanish
Dress code: Smart casual
Suitable for groups: No
Suitable for families: No
WoRk schedule
Volunteers joining our Special Needs Education
Project usually work four days per week, Monday
through Thursday. On these days, you’ll get students
ready for their classes from 8am until 9am, begin
activities and lessons at 10am, help out at playtime
and assist with lunch from 12pm until 1pm. The day
finishes between 2-3pm.
notes
Ý Volunteers booking a trip of two or three weeks on
the Teaching English Project will work within adult
community classes in the evening and may also
teach community education English workshops
Ý Project closed dates are from the second week of
December until the second week of February and for
one week preceding Easter Sunday. There is also a
mid-term break for the first two weeks of July
special needs education
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
17
Project guide
16 WWW.uvolunteeR.net
CassaDy tetsWORtH21 yeaRs, unIteD states
I absolutely loved every second of my
time in the Costa Rica, both volunteering
and traveling. Words can barely describe the
amount of love I have for the country, people,
new friends, and special needs students.
With a fifth of the population living in poverty, many Costa Ricans cannot afford to send their children to private daycare centers while they go out to work, so the government has established state-run facilities for disadvantaged families. Join a uVolunteer Daycare Center Supervision Project and you’ll have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of deprived children and their families in San Ramon.
The local daycare facilities are subsidized for low-
income families who need childcare during working
hours; centers provide safe, educational settings
for youngsters to be cared for. This, in turn, gives
parents the opportunity to go out and work, earning
enough to provide for their families.
Working with infants and children aged up to six
years, our volunteers provide hands-on help in the
form of educational enrichment, learning through play
and social skills development, also helping out with
general care and daily tasks within the center.
Help little ones learn the basics of literacy and
numeracy, teach reading and writing skills and assist
the children in establishing basic English to give
these deprived youngsters the best shot at the future
they deserve.
main duties
Assisting classroom teachers
Preparing teaching materials
leading basic english practice and interaction
Supervising children at playtime
Preparing food and supervising mealtimes
Assisting with reading, writing and mathematics
Preparing arts and crafts activities
Sharing your skills and interests with the children
quick RefeRence Guide
Placement location: San Ramon, Alajuela
Minimum trip duration: 4 weeks
Minimum age of volunteers: 18
Role: Daycare center assistant
Age of children: From 0 to 6
Language requirements: Intermediate Spanish
Dress code: Modest casual
Suitable for groups: No
Suitable for families: No
WoRk schedule
Daycare Center Supervision Project volunteers
usually work four days per week, Monday
through Thursday. On these days, you’ll work for
approximately six hours per day.
notes
Ý Project closed dates are from the second week of
December until the second week of January and for
one week preceding Easter Sunday. There is also a
mid-term break for the first two weeks of July
Ý Please check the uVolunteer website for details of
any Costa Rican national holidays
Daycare Center
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
19
Project guide
18 WWW.uvolunteeR.net
DaIsy COVaRRuBIas29 yeaRs, unIteD states I felt at home from the very first day. Every
morning as I walked into the center the kids
would great me with hugs and kisses - it felt
so nice to see how much they appreciated
my help. I walk away with deep affection for
the Costa Rican culture and a great desire to
return.
A developing country, Costa Rica has pockets of poverty where uVolunteer makes a difference through education and community development. Sign up to our Community Education Project and you’ll be providing support and skills development for the most underprivileged children in San Ramon.
Although literacy levels in Costa Rica have improved
over the last few decades, these changes are mainly
observed in urban areas; rural communities still face
challenges in achieving an equal education that
matches up to the high standards of the cities.
The center we work with operates as a daycare
facility in the morning and an after-school club and
community center in the afternoons. This safe,
educational environment is the perfect place for
youngsters aged between 0 and 16 to thrive.
Many of the children who attend the center come
from deprived backgrounds and have illiterate
parents, so there is a strong focus on literacy, reading
and completing homework to give these children the
best chance at a bright future.
There’s also plenty of opportunity for fun and
communication development within the outdoor
play areas, computer room and inside hall. Join the
project and equip disadvantaged children with skills
for life.
main duties
teaching the children to read and supervising homework completion
Organizing fun activities for the children
playing sports and general interaction
supervising children using the play areas
quick RefeRence Guide
Placement location: San Ramon, Alajuela
Minimum trip duration: 4 weeks
Minimum age of volunteers: 18
Role: Community education assistant
Age of students: From 0 to 16
Language requirements: Basic Spanish
Dress code: Modest casual
Suitable for groups: Yes
Suitable for families: Yes
WoRk schedule
Volunteers joining our Community Education Project
usually work four days per week, from Monday to
Thursday. On these days, your working hours will be
from 9am until 5pm, with a lunch at 12pm to 1pm..
notes
Ý Volunteers with a specialized skill are encouraged
to share their talents with the children by running a
small workshop at the center
Ý Casual but modest clothing suitable for indoor
tutoring and outdoor activities is advised
Ý Center staff are bilingual but most of the children
speak little or no English, so the more Spanish you
know, the better an experience you could have
Ý Project closed dates are from the second week of
December until the second week of January and for
one week preceding Easter Sunday. There is also a
mid-term break for the first two weeks of July
Ý Please check the uVolunteer website for details of
any Costa Rican national holidays
Community education
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
21
Project guide
20 WWW.uvolunteeR.net
auGIe antOmatteI48 yeaRs, pueRtO RICO The centers provide a great collection of
educational activities for underprivileged
kids; having the right attitude to fully engage
and connect with everyone is key for a
successful experience. This has to be the
most incredible experience I have had in
years
With more than a million Costa Ricans living in poverty, getting on to the property ladder is but a distant dream for many citizens. In San Ramon, uVolunteer works to make that dream a reality, helping construct homes for low-income families who otherwise would have little chance of owning a property to house their children and relatives.
Working with two special foundations that provide
loans for disadvantaged families to build homes,
our volunteers help local construction workers in
the building, repair and renovation of safe, secure
residences for families in need.
Join our Homebuilding and Construction Project and
you’ll assist in the construction of homes for low-
income families across several sites in rural areas
of San Ramon. Without these charitable schemes
and the help of dedicated volunteers like you, many
local residents wouldn’t have the opportunity to own
newly-built, modern homes to cater for their needs.
Meet the families you’ll be housing and provide
hands-on help in San Ramon to leave a legacy that
will last for decades to come, as well as assisting in
the upkeep of community buildings and schools that
serve the local residents. No official qualifications are
required; as long as you’re willing work hard and able
to help out with physical tasks, you’re ready to join
the building and construction project.
main duties
Clearing land for the build site
Bricklaying and mixing cement
plastering and painting buildings
Laying roof tiles
fixing dilapidated buildings
Digging and building septic tanks
Digging foundations for the building
loading and unloading supplies
quick RefeRence Guide
Placement location: San Ramon, Alajuela
Minimum trip duration: 4 weeks; 2 weeks for groups
Minimum age of volunteers: 18
Role: Construction assistant
Requirements: Basic Spanish
Dress code: Outdoor work wear
Suitable for groups: Yes
Suitable for families: Yes
WoRk schedule
Volunteers joining our Homebuilding and
Construction Project usually work four days per
week, Monday through Thursday. On these days,
your working hours will be from 8am until 3pm,
although this is subject to change – especially during
the rainy season.
notes
Ý Lightweight outdoor work wear is advised, along
with working gloves and shoes or boots
Ý The project is closed during the fourth week of
December and the first week of January, as well as
for a week preceding Easter Sunday
Building & Construction
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
23
Project guide
22 WWW.uvolunteeR.net
saRaH lOunsBuRy31 yeaRs, CanaDa The construction project is definitely
within the scope of nearly anyone's physical
abilities; the local workers on site are very
kind and grateful for any help you are able
to give. This trip was exactly what I needed
it to be and I cannot imagine having done
anything differently
spanish language uVolunteer provides an eight-hour crash course in Spanish language skills for all Costa Rica volunteers, inclusive in the program fee.
Many of our volunteer projects in Costa Rica
require some Spanish language skills, which is why
uVolunteer provides this tailor-made course for all
our volunteers to quickly learn the localized Spanish
language needed for their program in Costa Rica.
The objective of the course is to provide our
volunteers with a level of conversational Spanish
localized for Costa Rica. All volunteers, regardless of
their level of Spanish, will benefit from this course.
Local professional language teachers teach the
course, which begins on the second day of the
program during orientation and continues over the
next few days until the end of the first week.
This eight-hour crash course is designed to help you
brush-up on any unused Spanish or to quickly bring a
complete beginner to a basic level. It’s not designed
to bring a complete beginner to an intermediate level
in a week, but will be useful in helping all volunteers
develop a basic working vocabulary for their chosen
projects.
During lessons, you’ll learn words and phrases
relevant to your placement, as well as more general
local language that will help as you adapt to Tico life.
For those who need or would like more Spanish language lessons we have two options to accommodate your requirements:
option 1
Volunteer and study spanish: For volunteers who
want to study Spanish language for a few hours
weekly during their program.
For this option, after the first week crash course,
volunteers can purchase additional six-hour blocks
of tuition over a week at $90 per week. You can
purchase as many blocks as you need and the
classes are scheduled in the evenings so that they
don’t clash with projects hours.
option 2
Intensive Spanish Immersion: For volunteers
who don’t meet the language requirements of their
projects.
For this option, you can dedicate the entire first
week, or multiple weeks, to an intensive 20-hour per
week Spanish Immersion Course. This course costs
an additional USD $275 per week.
After the immersion program you can then start your
volunteer project equipped with the level of Spanish
necessary to make the most of your trip.
main points
Learn the basics or improve your Spanish
Suitable for beginners, intermediate or advanced level Spanish speakers
A range of learning methods including audio material and language labs
Professional K1 to K12 accredited program
WoRk schedule
Crash Course: Two hours daily Saturday and
Sunday. One hour daily Mon to Thurs
Volunteer and study: 1.5 hours daily Mon to Thurs
Spanish Immersion: Five hours daily, Mon to Thurs
Ý The language school is closed during the fourth
week of December and the first week of January, as
well as for a week preceding Easter Sunday
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
25
Project guide
24 WWW.uvolunteeR.net
CLARA KhAnG21 yeaRs, unIteD states
I quickly became attached to all the
teachers and students at the school and
was able to make lifelong friends. The three
weeks of Spanish language classes did more
for my Spanish than two years of college
sea turtle Conservation Famous for its rich biodiversity, Costa Rica is home to several species of sea turtle, some of which are endangered as a result of poaching. Join a uVolunteer Sea Turtle Conservation Project and help safeguard these threatened reptiles animals and their nests from poachers and predators.
A number of sea turtles species in Costa Rica are
threatened with extinction – turtles’ eggs are a local
delicacy and believed to have aphrodisiac properties,
attracting poachers. Adult turtles, meanwhile, are
hunted for their meat and shells.
Our volunteers are based on the beaches of the
north and central Pacific coast, where they maintain
a presence and conduct patrols. Conservation
responsibilities include moving eggs to a safe,
artificial hatchery, collecting research data, guarding
the hatchery and releasing newly-hatched offspring
so they can make the all-important journey to the
ocean without undue risk. Research and maintenance
activities typically take place in the early morning
and throughout the day, while patrols are carried out
during the night.
With your help, Costa Rica’s beautiful sea turtles
can continue to thrive, and the project can provide
important data about these fascinating creatures as
part of an international turtle research project that
monitors these endangered reptiles.
main duties
Beach patrolling and predator/poacher prevention
Building, manning and maintaining the hatchery
Transferring eggs and releasing newborn turtles
Researching and documenting breeding, nesting and incubation
Site construction and infrastructure maintenance
Assisting in transportation of food and water to turtle camp site
Assisting with shopping trips for supplies
quick RefeRence Guide
Placement location: Pacific and Caribbean coast
Minimum trip duration: 2 weeks; 1 week for groups/
families
Minimum age of volunteers: 18; younger if traveling
in a group/family
Role: Conservation assistant
Language requirements: English
Dress code: Outdoor work wear
Suitable for groups: Yes
Suitable for families: Yes
WoRk schedule
Volunteers on the Sea Turtle Project work six days
per week. On your day off, it’s important you return to
camp before sunset. Expect unsociable hours of work.
notes
Ý Lightweight outdoor work wear is advised as
volunteers are based on hot, tropical beaches
Ý Pack light but please remember to bring the
following essential items: sunhat, sunglasses, beach
sandals, comfortable working shoes, reading books
Ý The Sea Turtle Conservation Project is similar to
camping on the beach in very basic conditions –
there is limited electricity, no cellphone network and
water is carried in daily by volunteers
Ý Volunteer dormitories are mixed-sex and partially
open to the environment
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
27
Project guide
26 WWW.uvolunteeR.net
The Sea Turtle Conservation Project has
allowed me to spend time serving turtles in
need of human aid and has also taught me to
value our environment to its fullest. I couldn’t
have asked for a better setting and project -
this was the best decision of my life
WIleen HeRnanDez24 yeaRs, unIteD states
Depending on where you’re traveling from, you may
not need a visa, or might only require a tourist visa
for your trip.
4 Weeks befoRe you tRavel
Ý Around a month before traveling you should
purchase your travel insurance policy, this is a
mandatory requirement of the program.
Ý You will need to have made arrangements with
your doctor for any vaccinations you might require.
Depending on where you’re traveling to you may not
need any immunizations but it’s wise to check.
Ý You should also discuss any medication you may
need to pick up before you travel.
Ý Read through your volunteer information pack and
get in touch with your program coordinator with any
queries you have.
2 Weeks befoRe you tRavel
Ý Approximately two weeks before departure you’ll
receive the uVolunteer Arrival Info Sheet, which
has instructions and information about the pick-up
process - including details of the volunteer
coordinator who will meet you at the airport.
It’s important to read this and keep it safe for a
successful transfer. We look forward to your arrival!
notes
Ý If you need to make changes to your application
after you’ve been accepted by uVolunteer, we will
endeavor to accommodate you but may have to pass
on any fees we incur as a result. Cancellation fees
apply and are charged on a sliding scale relevant to
how close to your arrival date you cancel – there is
no refund for volunteers who cancel less than one
month before departure. Our terms and conditions
can be found at the bottom of every page of our
website.
Whento applyThe application timeline
How to applyMake friends, make a difference - make a start
If you’re ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime, uVolunteer is ready to put your plan into action. Check out our timeline below for an at-a-glance guide to the application process.
3 months befoRe you tRavel
Ý We recommend you submit your reservation online
at least three months before traveling, along with
a deposit of $349 to secure your place. The balance
will need to be paid in full 60 days before your arrival.
Ý We’ll send you an application form to complete –
please provide relevant details about identity, health
and skills, as well as your motivation for wanting to
volunteer in Costa Rica. Parental authorization forms
will be included if applicable.
Ý Return your application form and uVolunteer
will create your volunteer profile. The acceptance
process takes between two and seven days – most
volunteers who are physically able and have strong
motivational grounds for volunteering are accepted.
Ý Check for your acceptance email, which will
contain your program documentation. If we can’t
accommodate you, you’ll receive a full refund. Please
do not book any travel tickets before your program
documentation arrives.
Ý Ahead of traveling you’ll need to prepare your
passport. If you don’t have a passport we recommend
applying at least three months before you plan to
travel. If you already have a passport, check it’s still
valid and that you have room for more stamps.
6 Weeks befoRe you tRavel
Ý Ideally, you should book your flights as soon as
possible after arranging your volunteer trip. About six
weeks before traveling is the latest time to purchase
an affordable flight, so don’t leave it to chance.
Alternatively, if you book a uVolunteer premium
package, we will arrange flights for you.
Ý At this time, you should look into sending off your
visa application.
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
29WWW.uvolunteeR.net
uvolunteer
28
to a program provided the group’s team leader is a
parent or teacher over the age of 21. Groups of more
than three people qualify for discounts.
hoW safe is costa Rica?
At uVolunteer, we only send volunteers to
destinations that we are certain are safe.
Costa Rica is politically stable and free from civil
unrest, welcoming international volunteers with great
appreciation. Our volunteer location of San Ramon is
safe and secure, with all volunteers benefiting from a
safety briefing and round-the-clock staff support.
Will i need a visa?
Volunteers are advised to obtain a tourist visa for
travel to Costa Rica. If you’re a resident of the usa,
Canada, Great Britain, australia, new zealand or
the european union and have a passport, you will
be issued a 90-day tourist visa when you arrive in
Costa Rica. For other nationalities, please check visa
requirements via the Costa Rica Embassy.
vaccinations
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines
before your trip. You are not required to have specific
vaccinations before entering Costa Rica but it is
recommended that travelers are protected against
typhoid, Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. Please visit your
doctor to check your vaccination history and arrange
any immunizations at least eight weeks before
departure for Costa Rica.
Will i be alone onsite?
There are always other volunteers onsite – uVolunteer
sends more than 400 volunteers to Costa Rica each
year and our arrival dates are every two weeks, so
there is a steady stream of volunteers arriving and
leaving. There will usually be between four and nine
volunteers in your dorm at any one time, although
the number can increase to 16-35 depending on
the season. Our busiest period is from spring to
September, so please book well in advance to secure
your place.
lanGuaGe RequiRement
We recommend volunteers have some Spanish
language skills when joining a uVolunteer project in
Costa Rica. Most of our programs require basic or
intermediate Spanish. We offer an inclusive eight-
hour crash course as part of the program. You can
opt to pay for additional language lessons after this
course. We also offer a Spanish immersion course
for volunteers to learn Spanish before joining their
chosen project.
donations to pRojects
Our volunteers kindly donate their time and effort to
making a difference through uVolunteer’s projects
but many also want to give something extra to
the projects they help out on. If you want to make
a donation, we advise you to wait until you’ve
experienced the setting before deciding on what
would be most appropriate, rather than purchasing
goods to donate before you travel.
conseRvation volunteeRs
Volunteers enrolled on the Animal Conservation or
Turtle Conservation projects will be collected from
the airport on arrival and transferred to dorms for
the first night. You’ll leave on Saturday or Sunday
morning for your project and we will accompany you
to the location or facilitate your travel and cover any
costs up until you reach your destination.
closed dates
There are closed dates for some Costa Rican projects
– these are outlined in each project guide. On closed
dates, uVolunteer organizes social activities or makes
arrangements for volunteers to get involved in any
cultural events or festivals taking place.
When to book?
We recommend you book your volunteer abroad
break between three and six months in advance,
but if you want to arrange your trip less than three
months before traveling, we will endeavor to make
arrangements for you.
What do my fees coveR?
The fees you pay uVolunteer cover: pre-arrival
admin costs, volunteer project, dormitory housing,
two meals per day Monday to Friday, 24-hour local
staff, orientation, city tour, social activities, letter of
completion. A typical fee breakdown of a four-week
program in San Ramon is as follows:
Costa Rica Program 28 days
Program Coordination $280$10 daily x 28 days
Accommodation & Food $560$20 daily x 28 days
Total for 4-weeks $840
aRe theRe any otheR fees?
Volunteers pay an application fee of $349, which
is essentially a deposit to secure your place on the
program and show your commitment. If we can’t
accommodate you, you’ll receive the $349 back. Your
place will be booked within seven days of applying
and the balance fee due 60 days before arrival.
What’s not included?
Volunteers are responsible for flights, any visa costs,
personal expenses, transport to and from work,
return trip to airport, weekend travel and activities.
spendinG money
Most uVolunteer projects run from Monday through
Thursday; we recommend volunteers budget $40 in
spending money to cover basic costs during each
working week. Your expenses are likely to increase
over the weekend depending on your activities –
between Friday and Sunday you should budget for
at least between $140 and $250, but be aware that
costs can easily increase to $300+ if you overindulge!
What about insuRance?
It is your responsibility to purchase a comprehensive
travel insurance policy for your trip. Insurance
coverage for your trip is a mandatory requirement
of the program. Please make sure the policy
covers Emergency Medical, Trip Cancellation, Trip
Interruption, Baggage Loss & Delay and Extreme
Activities you plan on doing; as well as coverage for
small expensive electronic devices you bring.
tRavelinG With fRiends
We accept all group sizes of family and friends,
school classes and corporate teams, and can
accommodate everyone at the same project within a
single location. Children as young as 11 can join up
faQs Know before you go
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
31WWW.uvolunteeR.net
uvolunteer
30
Want to know more? For a general overview of what we do and why, download our program brochure.
Volunteering abroad is a life-changing choice; when you book a
volunteer vacation with uVolunteer, you can rest assured we’re with you
every step of the way.
Whether you want to teach English in deprived communities, build homes
for low-income families, conserve biodiversity or work with children in
need, uVolunteer can help make your dreams a reality.
Now you know all about volunteering abroad in Costa Rica, learn more
about the uVolunteer programs in Ghana and Thailand. We can tailor-make
your volunteer vacation to combine projects in different locations and cut
your costs in the process. Find out how much you can save when you
make a difference with uVolunteer.
Program Brochure
volunteeR in costa Rica, Ghana & thailand
Make friends, make a difference...
make a start
US&CAN 1-877-549-8638
33WWW.uvolunteeR.net
uvolunteeR
VolunteerCosta Rica
We hope this Destination Guide has given you a better understanding of our program and projects in Costa Rica.
We look forward to helping you have the best possible experience when you volunteer abroad. If you require further information please contact us:
USA & Canada Toll Free: +1-877-549-8638European Free Call: +44 0800 088 5816Inquiries to: info@uvolunteer.netOnline at: www.uvolunteer.net
Connect Socially
uVolunteer LLC501 Silverside Road, Suite 105Wilmington, Delaware, 19809, USA