A few words
project with the community:
project with our ccommunities
This volunteer programme contributes to the development of communities in poor regions and rural villages of the central andes of Peru
Our main focus is to encourage self-development among these communities, using methods that are based on self-management and sustainability, and that take advantage of the human and material resources available. This is done following traditional Andean methods of working the land, and through cooperation and reciprocity between volunteers and the receiving people.
In turn, we increase the psychological effect within the community, through projects centred around gender equality, human rights, coexistence, and the development of socio-economic capabilities. Another one of our objectives is to provide legal advice on these matters.
Volunteers on this project will work directly with the members of the community, in a practical manner from which the villagers can only benefit.
direct social work
Responsibilities:
Assist with implementing organic and ecologically sound practices, such as the creation of “bio-organic plots” (organic gardens), the construction of ecological kitchens, reforestation, planting and replanting, soil preparation, organic pest management methods, composting, production of natural products (jams, cheeses etc.), sustainable business practices, emotional support, legal support, defending the human rights of the inhabitants, amongst others.
Requirements:
Anyone interested in and focused on caring for and encouraging the respect of the environment and infrastructures.
With regards to socio-emotional and economic intervention, we benefit from students or professionals working in psychology, law, political sciences, philosophy, anthropology, human resources, company administration and management, sociology, occupational therapy, social work, social education, amongst others.
Location of the project
In the marginal areas of the Andean city of Huancayo and towns around that city
Other required details:
- A minimum age of 20 (applications from candidates under 20 will be considered according to the maturity and level of responsibility required for the role).
- Proof of identity, such as a valid passport.
- Communication via social networking tools, such as Facebook or Skype.
- A completed application form.
- Volunteers must be able and willing to adapt to the local cultural environment, be enthusiastic and be considerate towards their peers and coordinators.
- Be committed and responsible, and abide by basic rules of shared living in the accommodation and communal areas where you will be staying.
- Bring with you sufficient funds for personal costs, transportation and excursions.
- Volunteers must have all required vaccinations and health insurance.
- Minimum duration for volunteer work is 8 weeks. However, longer periods are ideal in order to see projects produce results.
Volunteers have the opportunity to experience first-hand life within rural communities, participate in a cultural exchange with the people, and learn about their customs and ways of life. Volunteers learn to put into practice theories of sustainable agriculture and construction.
Volunteers also benefit from being outside in fresh air and among nature.
THE IMPROVED COOKING STOVES PROJECT
ecological and healthy kitchens
In the Peruvian Andes, it is common to cook food in wood-burning stoves, especially in homes with fewer economic resources. This practice, in addition to the lack of awareness about the risks linked to wood smoke inhalation, causes many people to develop related illnesses.
One of the benefits of improved cooking stoves is the reduction of smoke in the spaces where food is prepared. Smoke contains many toxic substances, such as: carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, formaldehyde and poly-aromatic hydrocarbons like benzo-a-pyrene.
As a result, exposure to smoke causes problems within the
respiratory system, visual defects (cataracts and blindness), increased susceptibility to infections, chronic pulmonary obstructions, pulmonary fibrosis, anaemia, pregnancy abnormalities and lung cancer.
In addition to reducing risks of burns, this type of stove provides a convenient and effective method of cooking, greatly contributing to saving energy and, therefore, reducing deforestation and decreasing human involvement in the destruction of the environment.