VOLUNTEERS

Quetzaltrekkers is an organisation run entirely by volunteers, without anybody owning it or pulling the strings. Therefore it relies completely on the constant flow of new volunteers. The good thing about this is that with every new volunteer new idea’s arrive.

Want to volunteer with Quetzaltrekkers?
We are always looking for people to come and support our team! We have had volunteers from countries all over the world working in our different programs. Our project offers several positions to volunteer with.

Volunteer as a guide on hikes:
You will be guiding the five different hikes we offer. They are between one and three days and take you to the volcanoes and beach around Leon. The proceeds of these hikes form the main source of funding for our programs. For volunteers there is a minimum of two months commitment required. You pay for your first hike, which can be seen as a deposit that you get back after working with us for two months.

We look for volunteers that enjoy hiking, being in nature and working as a team member, speak basic Spanish, have trekking and first aid experience and take on projects on their own initiative. Strong experience is not necessary to work with us. We welcome the skills you bring and help train you in the ones you lack.

As a volunteer guide your responsibilities include:
• Recruiting customers for the hikes
• Shopping and preparing food for the hikes
• Preparing maintaining and cleaning equipment for the hikes
• Running the Quetzaltrekkers office
• Making promotional materials for Quetzaltrekkers
• Guiding at least 1 hike a week

As a guide you receive all expenses and food on the hikes, experience in guiding, experience in cooperatively running a volunteer organization, and most importantly the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the children here in Leon.

Volunteer with Asociación Las Tias:
Working at Las Tias is limited only by the imagination and funding resources. For the kids not having to get used to new faces all the time, Las Tias asks for a minimum of two months commitment. You have to be able to speak intermediate Spanish, be flexible, adaptable, take initiative and like to work with children.

The work mainly involves helping the kids with their homework, teaching writing, mathematic, English etc., doing art classes, organizing activities and participating on sportsday.

Las Tias are always looking for professional teachers, psychologists, social workers and healthcare workers that want to work as a volunteer with them.

Estimated costs of Living in Leon:
(Changing rates 01/04/05 1 US$ = 16,5 C$ / 1 € = 20.5 )
Room 1200 C$/month (75 US$/ 60 €)
Food 1200 C$/month (75 US$/ 60 €)
Other 800 C$/month (50 US$/ 40 €)
Total 3200 C$/month (175 US$/ 160 €)
**This will vary depending on your entertainment expenses**