What You’ll Study
Students seeking adventure and fun, as well as, having a desire to share their time and talents with their host community, are ideally suited for the Costa Rica community service trip. In just a short two-week stay, the program will expose participants to the multifaceted beauty of Costa Rica: its hospitable and warm culture, its "pura vida" (pure life) mantra, and its commitment to protecting and exploring biodiversity.
Students will learn how Costa Ricans live and think, as well as, some of the country's development challenges. Students will acquire or strengthen Spanish language skills and participate in fun daily cultural, social, and recreational activities. Excursions, including visits to a coffee plantation and a weekend trip to Arenal Volcano, serve as opportunities to experience firsthand the nature the country is known for!
ENVIRONMENTAL/SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Students may work with a network of urban gardens or ecological farms. Student volunteers generally assist with the garden or farm's daily tasks, learning about permaculture, organic farming and composting in the process. Students may also learn methods to teach children about environmental issues.
SOCIAL WELFARE SERVICES
Students may volunteer in organizations that support vulnerable populations, such as children or senior citizens. Organizations include subsidized daycare centers or senior centers. Students may participate in storytelling sessions, English language classes, or other fun activities.
Spanish language classes and community service are arranged through the International Center for Development Studies (ICDS) and their affiliate organizations. While in San José, students will stay with carefully selected host families, in walking distance of their classes. Students will volunteer with local community organizations in San José and engage with Costa Rican people through activities such as soccer games, dance lessons, and cooking with their families.
SERVICE CERTIFICATE
No academic credit is offered for this program. Upon completion of this program, students will receive a certificate documenting 30 hours of community service.
