MEXICO – Cardonal, Environmental Restoration & Community Resilience

We seek volunteers to be part of activities that improve the quality of life of people in marginalized regions of the low sierra and the valley of the Mezquital Hidalgo.

These actions revolve around environmental recovery, the conscious use of natural resources, traditional agricultural production or milpa. Furthermore the use of eco-techniques, in addition to generating production processes according to the axes of sustainability and social economy. Always revaluing and respecting the essential aspects of the traditional Hña Hñuculture. The working schedule is from Monday to Friday from 09am to 14pm. Leaving weekends free so that volunteers can carry out activities and explore places adjacent to the community.

Costs & Benefits: Aldeas de Paz works hard to keep the required financial contribution to an absolute minimum and to offer financial transparency by practicing an open book policy. The minimum contribution starts at €155 per week (after the second week) and includes Spanish language classes and accommodation at our fully equipped guesthouse apartments. Also a special program donation as well as a personal welcome service and pick-up at the airport, transfer to the bus, bus fare and free transfer to your placement location.

Special Offer: Spanish language classes – volunteers and interns receive free language lessons every week. The classes focus on developing communication skills so that students are able to put their knowledge to practical use as soon as they step outside the classroom. Our teaching method enables students to develop four basic skills. That means listening comprehension, speaking, reading and writing. The idea is to learn Spanish in a natural and spontaneous way, just as students have learned their mother tongue. Our students are encouraged to speak Spanish right from the very first day, using it in typical real-life situations. For example the basic syllabus is supplemented by special exercises, such as role-play, situational dialogues and work projects. Outside the classroom, the learning process continues as you are immersed in the Spanish language and the Mexican culture.

No previous experience or special skills are required. An environmental volunteer/intern needs to be enthusiastic and willing to learn. Ready for a challenge and has to have a desire to take initiative. Friendliness, care, commitment and patience are among important qualities. Motivation and desire to learn about the community development field. Furthermore passion for community work and grassroots development. We seek that the volunteer experience supports. Both a comprehensive experience for the person who participates. And for all the members and beneficiaries of our community.

Personalized Schedule

Each volunteer will receive a personalized schedule according to his/her needs and availability of activities. A minimum time commitment of 4 hours / 4 days a week is expected for all volunteers. We expect that volunteers adapt to program needs with flexibility, responsibility, commitment. Also patience, and perseverance, among other significant qualities. We do not require special training, just have a proactive attitude to learn new things.

Requirements

It is necessary for volunteers to meet certain requirements:

• At least 18 years of age at the start point of the volunteering period
• At least intermediate Spanish competence (B1 completed)
• Respect for the other and openness to discover new ways of life and cultural practices
• Preference will be given to those candidates who have work experience with people in vulnerable situations
• Candidates will be interviewed through video call by the NGO staff.
• An ideal volunteer is proactive and result-focused. But still patient and willing to engage in activities autonomously while still having our support and supervision.
• A valid medical insurance throughout your stay is mandatory

Volunteer placement or internship

As a volunteer you are free to commit any number of hours per week. Thats up to you! As an intern however you probably have to fulfill requirements set by your school or university. Just mark the tab on the registration form and inform us of your school or university internship requirements in advance . So then we can work out your personalized work plan together. Also tell us about your personal expectations and goals and we will see how we can help you achieve them.

Time Commitment

A minimum time commitment of 4 weeks is required and can be extended up to one year. Usually activities are held during weekdays from 10 am to 6 pm. But a personalized schedule will be organized with each volunteer on a weekly basis.

Availability

This program is ongoing throughout the whole year

Placement Location

Cardonal, Hidalgo province, Mexico

Note:
To enter Mexico you must have a valid passport and a properly completed Multiple Migratory Form (FMM). This form will be provided to you by the airline or at the port of entry. In any cae you can also complete this form online. Please click here:
inm.gob.mx/fmme/publico/en/