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Voluntary and Short-Term Work in Latin America

© Jonathan Griffiths

Latin America covers a huge area and has a range of terrains and cultures. For those interested in exploring this continent in more depth than simple tourism often allows, there are a number of opportunities. In this article, I will focus mainly on organizations that have opportunities across the region. However, towards the end, I will also point you in the direction of a few country-specific organizations.

It might first be a good idea to get a sense of the range and diversity of this continent. A couple of sites at which you can find out more abut Latin America in general are The Latin American Data Base and Latin American History.

There are a few good places to start looking for the kinds of opportunities that are available in Latin American countries. Those who are taking a year out between high-school and university can find a range of placements at the Gap Year search site. Idealist.com has links to a range of organizations, jobs, and volunteer opportunities around the globe. You can also register with them to receive a monthly news letter.

A number of non-profit organizations operate within Latin America. Many of these have opportunities for both volunteers and paid employees.

Cross-Cultural Solutions is a non-profit organization that provides humanitarian assistance by sending volunteers to developing countries. They have programs in a number of countries including Peru and Cuba.

The Institute for International Cooperation and Development (IICD) sends volunteers overseas to participate in development work in, among other places, Central and South America. Volunteers are recruited from a variety of nations and educational backgrounds.

The International Center at the University of Michigan has an interesting site on Work in Latin America. This site includes a number of links to voluntary work, internships, and paid work.

VSO is a British organization that offers long-term opportunities for skilled workers to work overseas. Men and women are required from a wide range of professions. Take a look at their website to find out more.

A number of organizations also operate in specific countries. If you know which country you are interested in working in, the following links may be helpful.

In Argentina, Experiential Programs offer a range of opportunities including internships, volunteer work, and au pair programs. Cordoba, Argentina can help those who wish to volunteer or intern. They place volunteers/interns in everything from orphanages to travel agencies.

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