Mexico: Construction Volunteer

Introduction

Our unique program offers you the chance to make a lasting impact in this picturesque corner of the world. We’re not just about bricks and mortar; we’re about creating better futures. In partnership with local animal shelters and village schools, we’re on a mission to improve both the learning conditions of students and the well-being of animals in need.

As you step into the heart of Puerto Escondido, you become an essential part of the change. The core of our program centers around the renovation and restoration of school infrastructure. Together, we breathe new life into local educational facilities, crafting inspiring learning spaces that empower students to dream big. From vibrant library makeovers to playful playground rejuvenations, classroom rejuvenations and essential school furniture repairs, your hands-on involvement ensures that students are equipped with an environment where they can thrive.

In addition to our educational endeavors, we lend a helping hand to local animal shelters, providing love and care for our four-legged friends in need. Your journey extends to embracing abandoned and vulnerable animals, offering them the warmth, shelter, and hope they deserve. In Puerto Escondido, the sunsets are more golden, the waves more inviting, and the community spirit more vibrant because of your involvement. Join us in this unique fusion of compassion, construction, and community-building, and become a beacon of hope in Puerto Escondido, where every brick laid and every paw cared for brings a brighter tomorrow.

Daily Life

Your role in this transformative journey is central to creating lasting change in the lives of both local students and animals in need. Here is a general overview of your responsibilities and what to expect during your time with us:

• Educational Empowerment:

Your primary role will revolve around improving the learning conditions of local students. This includes participating in various renovation and construction projects at village schools. You will have the opportunity to revamp school inner and outer class rooms, rejuvenate playgrounds, and assist in repairing school furniture to create inspiring learning environments. Your hands-on involvement ensures that students have the infrastructure they need to dream, learn, and succeed.

• Animal Care and Welfare:

Our program also extends its embrace to local animal shelters. Your role may involve offering love, care, and support to animals in need. You’ll help create a better life for these furry friends, providing them with the warmth and shelter they deserve. Whether it’s feeding, cleaning, or spending quality time with these animals, your compassion will make a significant impact on their well-being.

• Community Building:

Your participation in the program extends beyond the construction and care aspects. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant local community of Puerto Escondido. Embrace the culture, connect with fellow participants, and contribute to the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the region.

• Impact and Inspiration:

Your role is more than just a contribution; it’s about leaving a legacy. Your dedication to these projects and your compassion for both students and animals will bring hope, inspiration, and a brighter future to Puerto Escondido. Your actions will echo in the smiles of students, the wagging tails of animals, and the hearts of the local community.

You’ll be actively engaged in program activities for a minimum of 5 hours a day, with the exception of local holidays when activities may be adjusted. This commitment ensures that your efforts have a meaningful and sustained impact on the community and the projects we undertake. We appreciate your dedication to the program’s success and the positive change we strive to bring about.

Intro Week

Immerse yourself in an (optional) first week of pure magic as we invite you to join our captivating Mexican culture week! This program is a kaleidoscope of culture, creativity, and coastal beauty that will leave you breathless. From the moment you step off the plane, you’ll be welcomed into the heart and soul of Mexico, embarking on a journey that promises to awaken your senses and ignite your imagination.

Discover the secrets of Mexican customs, history, and artistry as you dive into an orientation like no other. Unleash your inner artist in a vibrant workshop where tradition meets innovation, crafting your own masterpiece amidst the backdrop of ancient techniques and contemporary inspirations. Feel the ocean breeze on your face as you sail along the rugged Oaxacan coast, followed by a culinary adventure that unveils the tantalizing flavors of this region.

Encounter the wonders of Mexican wildlife, catch a wave in the Pacific, or become a guardian of sea turtles. Finally, prepare to be enchanted by the luminous beauty of a bioluminescence boat excursion, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Get ready to write your own story in the book of Mexico’s wonders!

Monday:
Start your day with a hearty breakfast, followed by an orientation meeting covering house rules, safety tips, and document handling. Learn about Mexican customs, history, and “Do’s and Don’ts.” Spanish lessons prepare you for local interactions. Enjoy a tasty lunch and explore the city and market. End the day with a delicious dinner, reflecting on newfound friendships.

Tuesday:
Today, we embark on a vibrant journey through the heart of Mexican creativity, where the air is infused with the scent of molten wax and the streets echo with the rhythmic clinking of artisans’ tools. In this enchanting workshop, our souls will be painted with the colors of tradition and innovation, as we meld ancient techniques with contemporary inspirations. With each brushstroke, each thread woven, and each bead strung, we’ll unravel the tapestry of Mexico’s artistic soul, a kaleidoscope of culture and craft that dances to the rhythm of our collective imagination. Today, we become artists, storytellers, and dreamers, in a world where creativity knows no bounds.

Wednesday:
Today, we embark on a voyage of wonder, setting sail on a coastal boat trip that promises to sweep us off our feet with its breathtaking scenery. As the waves dance beneath us, we’ll be captivated by the rugged beauty of the coastline, where lush jungles meet the azure embrace of the Pacific Ocean.

But our adventure doesn’t end with the boat ride. No, we’re in for a treat as we anchor on the shores of Oaxaca. Here, amidst the vibrant culture and flavors of this region, we’ll immerse ourselves in an Oaxacan cooking class. The secrets of age-old recipes will be unveiled as we don aprons, chop fresh ingredients, and stir pots filled with tradition.

Thursday:
Witness the incredible wildlife of the Oaxaca coast thriving in their natural environment. Explore the stunning Zipolite Beach and savor the opportunity to indulge in a delectable seafood brunch at Estacahuite Beach.

Explore the wildlife at the Laguna Ventanilla Ecological Park
Take a boat through the mangroves and watch some migratory birds
Admire the famous beach of Zipolite
Cross the little ex-coffee port of Puerto Angel
Swim in the quiet water of Estacahuite Beach.

Friday:
Kickstart your day by catching some waves with a thrilling surf lesson suitable for both novice riders and seasoned surfers. OR you could choose to immerse yourself in the world of turtle conservation during the day.

Cap off your evening with a captivating bioluminescence boat excursion that will leave you spellbound. Bid farewell with a grand dinner fiesta.

***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***

Travel and Accom.

Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and picked up from the airport, before being taken to your accommodation.

Our accommodations are gender separated rooms in a hostel setting.  It is a typical Puerto Escondido neighbourhood, and our local hostel host is enthusiastic about providing local family-style interactions and cultural exchanges.

You will be taken directly from the airport to your accommodation and assigned to the same room for the duration of your stay. You will be staying in one of two downtown hostels with shared bedrooms. The accommodation center is located near Puerto’s downtown area. This small beach town has a beach area populated by a friendly and welcoming local community. It has become more popular over the years but still keeps its virginal charm and is part of one of the most inexpensive and underrated states in the country. Oaxaca is known for its beautiful beaches and capital and is a very popular destination for eco tourist backpackers who want to see the real Mexico largely untouched by the global modern world.

There’s a lot of activities beach related to do in Puerto specially surfing which has become the main activity that has brought tourists from all around the world during surf season.

Food

The food will be traditional Mexican, with plenty of corn tortillas, beans, rice, chili peppers, potatoes, wheat and other grains, and chicken, all of which are vegetarian-friendly. Keep in mind that some local dishes may be spicy!

All meals will be provided at the mentioned accommodation. Every day of the program, three full meals will be provided, beginning with breakfast at 8am, lunch at 12pm, and dinner at 6 p.m. On weekends, there are two meals available: brunch at 10 a.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. Food consists primarily of traditional local dishes prepared and served at the accommodation or in the surrounding area. Meals will be served based on your dietary requirements, but you must notify us in advance.

Requirements

• Minimum age 18
• Passion and enthusiasm for environmental conservation
• Not afraid to get your hands dirty!
• Ability to work within a team environment
• Minimum 2 weeks commitment
• CRB Police check (or equivalent) showing that you have no previous criminal convictions
• Good English skills
• Necessary vaccinations
• Necessary flight & visas
• Full travel & medical insurance. Full assistance will be provided in getting everything you will need ready if you choose our Placement Support Package.

Costs

£650 GBP per week

* Check the latest currency conversions with xe.com
** All payments incur a 5% bank transfer fee
*** Placements are confirmed with a 1 week deposit, minimum 2 weeks booking

What’s Included:

Project Fee includes food, accommodation, airport pickup, orientation, in-country support and project activities.

What’s not included:

Flights, insurance, visas (if applicable) and vaccinations. Full assistance will be provided in getting all these arranged if you choose our Premium Support.

Premium Support Upgrade

We understand there’s a great deal to plan and organise for your trip. When booking a Placement, many of our participants choose to purchase our Premium Support Upgrade to benefit from the expertise, knowledge and experience of our Project Coordinators.

We can provide the personal advice you need to ensure your trip is organised with excellence and planned with efficiency; ensuring the very best experience possible. Read more about how we can help you.