Quick Links
- San Jose Costa Rica - Home
- Underprivileged Children
- Teaching English
- Volunteer in Construction
- Eco-Agriculture Volunteer
- Healthcare / Medical program
- Dental program
- Sea Turtle Conservation
- Animal Care
- Beach Conservation
- Butterfly Garden Rainforest Conservation
- Community Outreach Volunteering
- Medical Volunteering
- Sea Turtle Mangrove Conservation
- Volunteer Vacation
Community Outreach Volunteering Program in Costa Rica
Are you thinking about volunteering in Costa Rica? Do you want to work with local communities to enhance their quality of life? Are you eager to make a real difference in the lives of underprivileged Costa Ricans? If so, our Community Outreach Volunteer Program is ideal fit for you!
Costa Rica, nestled in Central America, boasts stunning natural landscapes despite its small size. Its diverse terrain includes lush cloud forests, pristine beaches, and charming rural villages, making it a true gem of biodiversity.
However, even with a thriving tourism industry, many communities in Costa Rica still grapple with poverty.
Come join us in working directly with local communities, immersing yourself in their culture and language while making a meaningful impact. Our ongoing community outreach program adapts with new initiatives to address the current needs of the community.
At our on-site community center, volunteers play a vital role in conducting various workshops, English classes, and after-school activities for children. Responsibilities include enhancing the center, preparing materials, and teaching English classes at both the community center and local elementary schools.
Furthermore, volunteers actively engage in community development projects, with a focus on environmental advocacy and education. Activities range from creating educational signs and organizing recycling projects to conducting beach cleanups, painting buildings, and maintaining public spaces such as libraries and parks. Join us in Costa Rica to contribute to this transformative project!
Volunteer Responsibilities & Impacts
Volunteers in our Community Outreach Volunteer Program in Costa Rica have the opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of local communities while gaining valuable experience and insights. Here are some key responsibilities and the impact they have:
Assist at the Community Center:
- Help with improvements and maintenance of the community center.
- Prepare materials for workshops and classes.
- Teach English classes to local community members.
Community Development Projects:
- Participate in environmental advocacy and education initiatives.
- Create educational materials such as signs and posters.
- Organize and implement recycling projects.
- Conduct clean-up efforts in public spaces.
- Paint buildings and maintain community areas.
Cultural Exchange and Language Learning:
- Engage with local communities to immerse in the culture.
- Learn and practice Spanish language skills.
- Share experiences and knowledge with community members.
Positive Impact on Communities:
- Provide valuable educational opportunities for children.
- Create a safe space for community members to learn and grow.
- Raise awareness about environmental issues.
- Contribute to the overall improvement of the community's quality of life.
- Uplift underprivileged communities and empower individuals
Skills and Qualifications
There are no specific skills or qualifications necessary to join our Community Outreach Volunteer Program in Costa Rica. We simply ask that volunteers be at least 18 years old and have a genuine passion for creating change and engaging with communities. The main requirements are a willingness to learn, adapt, and actively contribute to meaningful projects aimed at benefiting local communities in Costa Rica.
Each day as a volunteer in Costa Rica will be a fun, rewarding and learning adventure.
You can expect to volunteer an average of 4 hours per day, Monday-Friday. Your actual hours will vary based on what’s going on from day to day at the project, but here’s a sample schedule to give you an idea of what to expect.
First Day : On your first day, our in-country coordinator will bring you to your project and introduce you to the local project staff. You’ll be provided with helpful orientation.
Orientation: Learn all about the work you’ll be doing, what the project is about, your schedule, safety protocol, and quickly go over the customs and culture of Costa Rica.
Weekdays: A typical day volunteering might look something like this:
7.00 to 7.30 AM: Start your day with a hearty breakfast shared with your fellow volunteers.
7.45 AM: Get ready for an exciting day of work.
12.00 PM: Break for lunch and use this time to bond with your fellow Costa Rica volunteers. Make like-minded friends from around the world!
3.00 PM: Lunch time. Enjoy your lunch and make bond with fellow volunteers.
6.45 PM: Enjoy dinner with your fellow volunteers as the day comes to a close.
Fees & Program Dates
Program Dates
Global Crossroads volunteer programs begin every Monday year-round. We allow flexibility if you have travel constraints. Volunteers can join our programs from 1 week up to 12 weeks.
Fees
Global Crossroad is committed to offering the most affordable and high quality Costa Rica volunteer trips. We strive to keep our costs low. The humanitarian side of the business is our passion.
Global Crossroad volunteer opportunity in Costa Rica application and registration fee costs US $299. The application fee covers the cost of advertising, program promotion, and office expenses (rent, utilities, and staff salaries in the USA office).
In addition to the application fee, you are required to pay a weekly program fee. You will pay your weekly fee directly to your host family and project (via the country coordinator). This way, the fees that you pay will benefit those who rightfully deserve them, and are not for company profit.
| Duration | Project Fee |
|---|---|
| 1 Week | 320 |
| 2 Weeks | $640 |
| 3 Weeks | $960 |
| 4 Weeks | $1280 |
| 5 Weeks | $1600 |
| 6 Weeks | $1920 |
| 7 Weeks | $2,240 |
| 8 Weeks | $2,560 |
| 9 Weeks | $ 2,880 |
| 10 Weeks | $ 3,200 |
| 11 Weeks | $ 3,520 |
| 12 Weeks | $ 3,840 |
Comprehensive Travel Insurance $3.49/day ( below 28 years) and $4.49/day ( above 28 years)
Spanish Immersion Classes at $75 per week
How your fee is allocated?
Program fees cover:
- Shared Accommodation
- 2 meals per day (Breakfast & Dinner)
- Airport Pick up
- In-country support
- Program Orientation
- Project Management
- Volunteer Certificate
- Discount for returning volunteers
- Weekly Surcharge
Program fees exclude:
- Visas
- Airfare
- Miscellaneous personal expenses, soft drinks, food, etc.
- Daily transportation
- Airport return transfer
The Costa Rica volunteer program fees cover expenses from the first day of your program to the last day of your program. If you arrive before the first day of the program or you decide you stay beyond your program’s last day, you will be responsible for any additional expenses.
Accommodation and Meal
On project days, volunteers will be provided with two daily meals, which are served in shared group housing. For those desiring more privacy, there is the possibility to upgrade to private rooms for an extra fee. Accommodation options vary from dormitory-style living to enhanced private lodgings. Moreover, volunteers will have access to educational presentations and practical training sessions to acquaint themselves with their responsibilities.
Free Time and Weekend Exploration
Volunteers are expected to dedicate 4-5 hours a day, five days a week to their volunteer work, allowing ample time in the mornings, evenings, and weekends to explore Costa Rica's attractions. Costa Rica boasts a rich cultural experience with an array of attractions including museums, theaters, live music venues, and diverse dining options, ensuring volunteers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy all that the country has to offer during their free time.
Discover what to do in your free time and weekends in Costa Rica.
Safety and In Country Support
At Global Crossroad, your safety is paramount, and we are dedicated to ensuring a successful and secure volunteer abroad experience for you. We prioritize your well-being by offering safe housing and connecting you with welcoming host families who can help you navigate the local area. We partner with reputable organizations, provide health coverage, and maintain a dedicated in-country team available 24/7 to offer assistance and support whenever needed.
FAQs:
You’re probably asking yourself a few questions, so we’ve taken the time to put together this list of helpful information to give you the answers you need:
Arrival and Departure
You’ll fly into Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose, Costa Rica. Your airport pickup is included in your volunteer fee.
When you complete your project, you will need to arrange your own departure transportation as it is not included in your volunteer fee.
Visa
You may be eligible for a visa stamp upon your arrival at the airport in San Jose. However, do your research to learn the requirements for your home country before heading out on your Costa Rica volunteer experience.
Most volunteers will be eligible for a 90-day tourist visa. You should know you will need to provide proof of onward travel. If you have a round trip ticket, this will serve as all the proof you need. Research the visa requirements at the official Immigration site of Costa Rica.
Vaccination
No one wants to get sick while they travel abroad, so protect yourself by getting vaccinated before you go. Make an appointment with your doctor a few weeks before traveling to get up to date.
You should be up to date on your routine vaccines, as well as Hepatitis A & B and Typhoid. You can also find information on the CDC website.