» Short-Term Volunteer Program
Share – Learn – Give – Make a Difference

For individuals who want to contribute to social development by donating their time and energy, we offer the Short-Term Volunteer Program.  This is an excellent way for dedicated individuals to support social justice and development efforts while immersing themselves in Nicaraguan culture and the Spanish language.

Volunteer projects include, but are not limited to, the following:

Environmental brigades – Work on beach clean-up projects with local youth.

Schools – Assist in classrooms or after school programs.

Orphanages – Spend the day brightening the lives of orphaned children.

Sports – Play sports with high – risk youth and give them an alternative to drugs and gangs.

Disabled people- Help with arts and crafts projects with disabled youth and adults.

English – Teach or practice English with young people and adults. Teach English at elementary schools.

Art/Dance/Music – Participate in photography, filmmaking, dance, painting and music workshops for young people.

Housing projects – Help build, paint, or repair homes for single mothers with limited economic resources.

Garden projects- Work with community members to plant gardens.

…and many more. Tell us your interests, and we’ll find a project that’s right for you.

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OUR ROLE
We are a professional organization dedicated to promoting sustainable social, economic, and environmental development in Nicaragua.   Through our Short Term Volunteer program, we strive to  (1) assist motivated individuals find rewarding and mutually beneficial volunteer opportunities  and  to (2) support the efforts of social and environmental organizations and institutions that host volunteers.    

Viva Nicaragua! is committed to ensuring a positive and rewarding experience for both the volunteer and the host organization.  To guarantee this, our role extends beyond the actual volunteer placement to providing many additional services and support. 

We provide the following services to our volunteers:

• Volunteer placement based upon the interests of the volunteer and needs of host organizations. 
• Monetary and material donations given to collaborating organizations for each  volunteer hosted.
• Supervision and guidance throughout the volunteer program.   
• Resolution of any problems that may arise during the volunteer program.
• Assistance in designing programs, developing projects, making necessary contacts, and acquiring needed supplies/materials.

In addition, we provide the following logistical support:

• Pre and post arrival orientation.
• Family placement OR, for individuals wishing more independence and when available, assistance with alternative housing/accommodations.
• Airport pick-up
• Cultural and/or recreational activity
• Orientation/safety information
• Weekend/after program travel assistance.
• Emergency assistance
• Staff available 24-hours a day to meet any need
• Re-entry adjustment information

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REQUIREMENTS
•Spanish
Some, but not all, placements require a certain level of Spanish proficiency.  Volunteers with limited Spanish can study Spanish  (at an additional cost) a local partner school.

•Volunteers must be at least 18 years old unless accompanied by an adult.   

•The only additional requirement is that you are an independent and motivated individual, dedicated to making a difference!

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HOUSING/ACCOMODATIONS
Most volunteers stay with  local families.  This is  the best way to integrate  into the culture and  language.  Family stays include three meals a day and laundry service. 
For volunteers traveling with their families or those who would like more independence, we can find other accommodations in hotels or  hostels.  Costs are higher than family stays and meals and laundry are not included.  This option is not available in all areas and not recommended for all volunteers.  Family stays are the best way to maximize the experience.

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PROGRAM COSTS

Viva Nicaragua! is more than a placement organization.  We are committed to supporting social justice and sustainable development efforts.  A portion of the placement fee is donated to the organizations that host interns.  We maintain a fund that is donated annually in support of new development and research projects.     When you volunteer with us, you not only support these efforts with your time and  knowledge, but also provide valuable economic support.   

Placement fees cover:

• Lodging (with family) and 3 meals a day
• Volunteer placement
• Orientation materials
• An on-site coordinator available to meet any need
• Airport pickup
• 24- hour emergency assistance
• Donation to the volunteer location

Not included in program costs: airfare, return transportation to airport, meals and laundry when staying in a hotel/hostel, additional travel expenses, and departure taxes. 
 
Why pay to volunteer?

Volunteer with family stay (includes 3 meals a day) and airport pick-up

1 week          $280
2 weeks        $430
3 weeks        $580

Volunteer Only (without homestay) options available

Spanish classes can be provided at an additional cost.

Program fees for those staying in hotels or hostels are slightly higher and do not include meals and laundry.  Please contact us for current rates. 

Fees must be paid in full upon arrival.

Program fees are non-refundable. 

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APPLICATION PROCESS

1) Download and submit your application to apply@nicaraguainternships.org

2) After receiving your application, we will send you a confirmation letter and deposit request.

3) Upon receipt of  your deposit, we will confirm your placement and send you   important country and program information.

4) Complete cash payment is due on or before your program start date.   

5) There will be no refunds after the  program has begun.  In the event of a personal emergency, we will review the situation and may issue a partial refund. 

 DOWNLOAD APPLICATION

  WHICH PROGRAM IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Questions? Contact us!

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