Volunteer in Costa Rica Costa Rica is Spanish for Rich Coast, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in this Central American nation. Unlike many Central and South American countries, much effort has been made to preserve Costa Rica’s wildlife and rainforests. Because of this, this small country is one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth, with Caribbean and Pacific beaches, lush tropical forests, volcanoes and marshy lowlands all on offer. Because of its focus on environmental protection, this developing nation relies heavily on volunteers to maintain its eco-tourism projects and improve its far-flung rural communities. With USIT’s volunteer programme you’ll not only be preserving Costa Rica’s natural beauty, you’ll also be in the best position to experience it firsthand. What You Can Do You’ll be placed on a project that gives you a chance to use your skills, experience and imagination. Costa Rica has a wide variety of social interest and environmental protection work available, including Wildlife Conservation:  National parks, biological reserves and other protected areas account for more than a quarter of Costa Rica’s land, and there are ample opportunities for the environmentally-minded volunteer. Help feed, protect and develop infrastructure for spider monkeys, sea turtles and other threatened species, or get involved in environmental awareness programmes and reserve tours. Orphanage Work: Care for children at a community orphanage. In addition to feeding and looking after the children, you’ll help them with their school subjects, take them to the park and arrange after school activities. Teaching: Teach English to students of all ages in rural communities around the country. In addition to giving English lessons you’ll also help out in the classroom and develop arts and recreation programmes for the students. Teaching positions are often available as part of larger community development projects as well. Community Development: Many communities have a variety of tasks available for volunteers. You’ll work closely with members of the community on a number of projects, such as developing infrastructure and community gardens, marketing local handicrafts and teaching English. Other: Many of Costa Rica’s volunteer projects don’t fit neatly into categories. Participants can also help out at a children’s museum, in public clinics and hospitals, or with the country’s Breast Cancer Society. Agricultural placements are also available. Getting Started with OTEC Orientation Spend your first two days San José, Costa Rica’s sprawling capital. Here you’ll receive a comprehensive orientation from our partner organization OTEC that will help you understand Costa Rican life and customs. You’ll also learn more about your volunteer placement and get advice on adapting to your new surroundings. Housing You will most likely stay with a local host family involved in the project you are volunteering with. Accommodation is quite affordable, and includes half board and a private room. You’ll also be provided with accommodation in a city-centre hostel during your orientation. Volunteer Costa Rica also Includes: - Temporary Costa Rican work permit
- Pre-arranged volunteer placement and home-stay with local family
- Two nights hostel accommodation during orientation
- Airport transfer
- 24-hour emergency assistance
- Manual and certificate of participation
Time to Explore Costa Rica is a vibrant and diverse nation, and well worth exploring on weekends or at the end of your volunteer commitment. Take the time to climb a volcano, visit a butterfly farm, or spend more time exploring San José. Talk to us before you go for ideas on local tours, local travel passes, stopover suggestions and round the world routings – some of which are cheaper to buy before you go. Costa Rica is a great gateway to the rest of Central and South America, so why not reward yourself for making a difference? If would like further information please email: volunteer@usit.ie or call us at 01 602 1906.
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