Do I have to fit a certain profile to work as a volunteer at Incawasi?
We are looking for volunteers who have something to offer, but being a qualified doctor, psychologist or teacher does not always mean you have the most to give. If you have cared for children before or even if you haven’t and want to start, you are most welcome. Enthusiasm and dedication are the most important aspects in a volunteer.
Do I have to speak Spanish to work as a volunteer?
We could say ´the more the better.´ An intermediate Spanish level is best to deal with the children, so even though you will improve your Spanish very quickly while working with the children, we do require at least a basic/low intermediate Spanish level. That way, communication is easy from the start of your stay an Incawasi.
How long should or can I work as a volunteer at Incawasi?
There is not a maximum limit on your time here, but the minimum time is two months. A more rapid cycle of volunteers is difficult for the children, who need a certain time to confide in and make friends with each new volunteer. We find that volunteers also profit from longer stays, as they learn more about the work and each child individually, and generally feel more content with their whole volunteer experience.
Do I have to speak Spanish to work as a volunteer?
We could say ´the more the better.´ An intermediate Spanish level is best to deal with the children, so even though you will improve your Spanish very quickly while working with the children, we do require at least a basic/low intermediate Spanish level. That way, communication is easy from the start of your stay an Incawasi.
Where do I live and what about food?
Working as a volunteer, you live in the Incawasi centre. While our work is mainly stationed on the first floor, there is a volunteer area upstairs, including dorms, a living room, two bathrooms and a balcony. Breakfast and lunches are paid for by Incawasi Monday through Friday.
Do I have to pay anything for working as a volunteer?
Yes, you have to pay for working as a volunteer, even if it sounds silly paying to work! Incawasi unfortunately does not receive any financial support from the government or other organizations. The organization’s sole income comes from the volunteers who work in the centre, and donations gathered by founders and ex-volunteers abroad.
The monthly donation we ask of volunteers is small in comparison with the amount of daily expenditures. With this money, volunteers help the association in its day-to-day costs (bills, food, medicines, school material, etc.).
The payment for the first 3 months is $300/month, for the fourth, fifth and sixth month the payment is $200/month and from the seventh month on it is $100/month.