Peru

1.- Whats was a daily schedule at the program, hours volunteered?

Monday through Friday I woke up at 7:30 am to get ready to go volunteer at the clinic. Maria would be awake and put out a breakfast, and we would have a quick convo before I head out at 8:30 to get to the clinic. I took the bus, with a possible two different buses, and got to the clinic at 9:00 am, right when the doctor came. Depending on the businesses of the day, I would take the bus home from 1:00 – 1:30 pm and get to the house about thirty minutes later.

Then Maria would have the table set for us to eat lunch- We relaxed, talked, ate our lunches, and I would either explore the city in the afternoon as per Maria´s suggestions or would hang out at the house with the family. On the weekends was my time to explore the extensive history of Cusco, and I would go on trips that Maria, along with an extremely friendly travel agent, would plan with me.

2.- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?


• Host Family: How caring generous, and genuinely happy the host family was to have me in their home. Seeing that it was such a pleasure for them made it even a greater pleasure for me.
• Program: How easy, and effortlessly coming to a different continent was to plan. Organize, and communicate.
• Country: How kind all of the Peruvian people are, and how welcoming they are.

3.- What was the most challenging thing you experienced?


• Host Family: Not having any other volunteers with me. This was slightly challenging in the beginning. Being in a new country, a new city, it would have been nice and helpful to have someone else experience it with me – but this, in the long run, did not deter my time. As I got more comfortable in the house, city and with the host family, I ventured out more.
• Program: Not exactly knowing where my place was and what was expected of me. A few days into the clinic though, it became slightly easier and I became more comfortable in the environment.
• Country: Finding places to eat. I had a terrible fear of getting sick and always wondered which places were best to eat at.

4.- Any tips for future volunteers… (clothing, travel, personal items, donations, money, internet)


It is always nice and part of your mission as a volunteer to donate to the cause or place you are volunteering at. This shows a huge sign of respect. Being respectful is key, in any workplace, especially a new work in a new country. Brushing up on Spanish will build rapport with those around you, and will definitely improve when you get here.

Understanding the culture of the country is also important. Prior to coming to Cusco, I tried to read up on some of the cultural differences. Peru is a country traditionally based on a maternal root. Having the slightest bit of knowledge such as not sitting in the front rows of the bus, because this is for elderly, mothers and pregnant women, as well as knowing that an appropriate greeting involves a kiss on the cheek, will build rapport, and make you feel like you are part of the community as well.

A far as money is concerned, if you want to do the big trips such as Machu Picchu and Lago Titikaka, the travel agencies take American dollars and it is roughly $700 more or less for both depending on the packages you receive. Things in an Americans perspective are much cheaper in Peru – which is good, but you also want to have enough money.

I did not eat out, being that I ate at the house every day. Went to Machu Picchu, Lago Titikska, Puno, The Sacred Valley, and bought the tourist ticket in Cusco ( a ticket that costs 130 soles and allows you access to many many tour opportunities in Cusco, asks about it) and on top of that bought souvenirs for myself and my family. I was in Cusco for 2 weeks and brought roughly $1,000. This is just an example, but everyone budgets differently.

My host family house did have wifi, it was an additional US$20 upon my arrival and was completely worth it. With the internet, you can video call your family and friends, call them regularly through facetime audio, Viber, or WhatsApp, and also have access to email, Netflix, or anything else you may desire when you´re down here.

Whether you are coming in the dry or wet season, I would highly recommend packing a windbreaker, a raincoat, hiking boots, and many layers. If you are in a medical type of program, please pack scrubs. Did I mention to pack hiking boots? They will come in handy and they are the boots I have worn most since I have been here.

Volunteer Peru

5.- Other things volunteers should know before coming here (besides Spanish):


Host Family: Someone is welcoming you into their home. – their home, their accommodations, and your open mind. Of course is something is detrimental to your health or safety, please inform somebody. Otherwise, you must have an open mind and join in the lifestyle. You are responsible for making yourself comfortable.

The first thing I did when I arrived was going to the market and by two jugs of water. I kept them in my room and filled a water bottle I had. This was my assurance that I constantly had clean water. The houses in Cusco also do not have heat or air conditioning. Knowing this, I packed a throw blanket from home because I wanted to make my room feel homier and I knew I may need it.

Program: ABV does a great job with placement and communicating with you, but when it comes to changes that may occur in your schedule you need to inform them and let them know.

Country: Cusco is a city, so be mindful of your things at all times like you would in any other city. Treat people with respect and you will be respected. My biggest suggestion on doing this is learning some basic Spanish. It will help on the street and in taxis as well.

6.- Personal Paragraph about the experience (ABV Program Testimonial):


This experience as a whole has surpassed my expectations as a volunteer. I am taking way more out of this program that I feel I even put in. The growth that you see yourself is something only time can prove. ABV was the more credible program I found online after many weeks of research, and they have not disappointed me one bit.

The entire process has felt seamless, and even when there were small bumps in the road, such as my outgoing flight being delayed, ABV was there when I called and made arrangement accordingly. One of the most important concerns I had was my safety, and I can confidently say, there has not been one time when I felt like I was not being treated correctly, or not safe. This opportunity has been fantastic!

7.- How would you describe your accommodation: meals, security, friendliness, quality others:


Meals: Three meals a day, none of which got me sick. Delicious, flexible, and comfortable.

Security: Very safe. I had the keys to the two outside doors and a key to my room personally. I never once felt at danger.

Quality: Fantastic! Coming to another country and being welcomed into a home and being shown a community in a safe and friendly environment is a great quality to me.

7.1.- Score the following from 1 to 10:

Quality of meals: __10_ if under 5, what was the issue:

The quantity of each meal: _11__ if under 5, what was the issue:

How clean was the house: __8_ if under 5, what was the issue:

How safe was the house: __10_ if under 5, what was the issue:

8.- How were the local ABV Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country: Airport, orientation, introduction to the program, schedule of the program, friendliness, solving problems?

The ABV coordinator, Maria Elena, was efficient, clear, and a pleasure to work with. Maria spoke to me through the application WhatsApp the day before my flight as well as when I was at the airport. The coordinator informed me again of what I needed to do once I landed in Cusco and was there for me outside when I finished at the airport. She instantly started talking to me about Cusco, and where I will be working. She assured me that I would like the location because she knows the people who work there, and it is mostly younger women – she was right, I liked it a lot.

Every night we would go over what my plan was for the next day, and she was there for me when I thought I wanted to change my schedule. She always brought different options to the table. Maria went to work with me the first day and then came another day to take pictures. She also introduced me to a travel agent that ended up booking all of my trips and treated me like family. I can not express how friendly she was, and how confident I was with her coordinating the events I did with the program.

Volunteering in Peru

9.- Whats was a daily schedule at the program, hours volunteered, activities you did?

I volunteered from 9 to roughly 1:30 every day. I would then go back to the house, eat with Maria Elena and sometimes her family. We would hang out, talk, and relax. Some days I stayed in the house, other days Maria Elena and I would go into town, the supermarket or Maria Elena would make a suggestion on where I should go into town. One thing I did upon her suggestion was seeing a show of all the folk dances and songs of Cusco. It was only 30 soles and about an hour.

It was in a tiny theatre and was something I enjoyed. Then on my first weekend on Saturday, I did the sacred valley which I loved, then overnight went to Machu Picchu and went to Machu Picchu on Sunday which was amazing, and came back to Cusco Sunday night. During my second week, I did the city tour and then my second weekend I left Friday night to go to Puno and Lago Titikaka. I returned early Sunday morning and then at 8:30 am met the bus to go to Maras and Moray which was also such a beautiful drive and experience.

10.- What was your favorite memory of this trip?:


Accommodation: I loved lunch time. I never paid too much attention to lunch in the US, and my family never eats lunch together because everyone is at work. I loved coming home in Cusco and eating lunch at a table with others. Maria Elena also has a great assortment of tea, so lunch was usually followed by a nice little tea break.

Program: My excitement about the program and my relief on how I was able to plan this on my own, with the help of such a credible program,

Country: I loved the sacred valley. It was my first tour, so maybe that’s why it stuck in my head. I just remember thinking like, wow this country is beautiful, and there is so so much history here. I also loved my group for the sacred valley and had a great tour guide.

11.- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling? Emails, chat online, calls, volunteer guide

ABV USA answered all of my emails (there were a few) and all of my phone calls. The orientation packet emailed to me was also extremely helpful, as well as Sarah. I spoke to her multiple times over the phone about concerns I had with safety and packing and she always answered promptly and did not steer me wrong. The volunteer guides and orientation booklets on passed volunteers suggestions is also a list I personally used to help myself pack and was very helpful.

12.- What do you think about the reservation system online?

It was easy to fill out. It was also easy to access, and easy to apply as well as easy to view all the prices that were involved in the program. I like how you can choose your own dates, as well as had a quick hear back time from the program about being accepted. It was very flexible being that I applied as last minute as I possibly could, unintentionally, for the dates I wanted, and I did not feel behind in the planning process at all.

13.- Who did you find Abroaderview website
?

I did a lot of research online. I also spoke to many volunteer programs. After finding ABV, I read blog websites on reviews, as well as looked at my school’s websites. Once I saw that my undergraduate and graduate education have sent students through ABV, I knew it was the right choice.

14.- Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?

Sure, I´d like to help. Email is probably best for reaching out.

Read some more Peru Reviews

Volunteer in Peru

1- How was the local ABV Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country?

Maria Elena was helpful from the airport to directing me to my assignment locations.  She often checked in on my progress and was helpful in assisting me with my travel and touring plans.

2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

Unfortunately, with a large teacher and medic strike, and the national independence week, I was unable to provide as much patient care as I would as wished, this was out the control of ABV but Maria Elena did her best to have programs for me. I was pleasantly surprised by the clean and comfortable room I was afforded.  They were very gracious hosts, and the food served was delicious.

3- What was the most challenging thing you experienced?

• The lack of enough dental instruments and functioning equipment to be able to use, it was to be expected.
• Accepting the poor protocol practiced in infection control, regarding disinfection and sterilization.

4- Any tips for future volunteers…

1. A command of the language is always helpful.
2. Bring supplies, possibly to donate, i.e. instruments, disposables
3. If visiting in winter, wear layers of clothes
4. Carry hand sanitizer

5- Personal Paragraph about the experience (ABV Program Testimonial):

One cannot always measure the impact that your service has had on those you have served. That is the unfortunate part. However, it is what you feel from giving of your time and energy to those of less fortune and health.

Volunteer in Peru

6- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security, friendliness, quality others:

EXCELLENT

7- What was your favorite memory of this trip?:

Program: Providing toothbrushes, floss and paste to the children at the orphanage and conducting a program on oral health care.
Host Family: Their graciousness.
Country:  The colorful environment and pride in Inka tradition and culture.

8- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?

Sarah was always helpful and prompt, whether by phone or e mail.

9- What do you think about the reservation system online?

Functional.

10- How did you find Abroaderview website (keywords, search engine, word mouth to mouth, recommended by .., other).

How I found out about Abroaderview was through the ADA Dentist Volunteer Website.

Volunteer Ecuador

1- How was the local ABV Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country?

The staff and support in country exceeded expectations. As soon  as we arrived we were given a warm welcome and it seemed like they were genuinely happy to have us visiting. We were given multiple contacts of people in case of emergency, and the staff kept in touch during my entire stay to make sure everything was okay.

2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

Program:  I was surprised by how pleasant everyone was, even with the language barrier at work my coworkers did their best to help me fit in. I was also shocked my the number of patients in the hospital every day. Being a public hospital, had hundreds of people needing help even before we started working (7:30am). It was sad to see so many people in need, but you felt better knowing you were trying your best to help.

Host Family:  I think my host family was the biggest surprise. I can’t say enough positive things about my host Mom, we got incredibly lucky. She was so welcoming, and cooked us great food three times each day. Her children were friendly and awesome to talk with too.

Country:  I was mostly surprised by how huge Ecuador/Quito is. I thought I’d be able to see most of the city but I was wrong, it’s tremendous. I also underestimated how much traveling I was going to do, which was by far the best part of the trip. I can easily say that the places I’ve seen in Ecuador are the most beautiful places I’ve been to thus far in my life.

3- What was the most challenging thing you experienced?

Program: The language barrier was by far the most challenging thing to overcome at work, after 4 weeks I still find my self struggling to communicate with the staff at the hospital.

Host Family: the living conditions at home took some time getting used to, like the bed and the shower, but other than that there weren’t many things challenging about Janet and her Family.

the biggest thing to overcome in my point of view is constantly worrying about the water you’re drinking and the food you’re eating. You don’t want to get sick in a foreign country, so being on your toes at all times gets tiring.

ABV: from all our volunteers no one has been sick by eating at our host families. Always drink bottle water and if you eat in restaurants only do at well known and good review locations, never from street vendors.

4- Any tips for future volunteers… (clothing, travel, personal items, donations)

Bring your smartphone, computer, or tablet, try to write in a journal every day, bring water-proof clothing and shoes/boots, travel, try every single fruit you can (everything is delicious).

5. Other things volunteers should know before coming here:

If you’re volunteering at the hospital ABV says you need a bunch of medical equipment which is not accurate, unfortunately it will just be a waste of money. Also if you’re working at the hospital, no matter what the website says, you NEED WHITE pants and a WHITE top.

ABV: Our website asks for supplies as many hospitals and clinics need many supplies, our website is as general as possible as we work with dozens of medical locations and they are all different. But the White pants and white tops and white sneakers are described in the website and volunteer guide.

Volunteer in Ecuador Quito North: PreMed & PreNurse

6- Personal Paragraph about the experience (ABV Program Testimonial):

This trip was incredible and I don’t regret coming for a second. Our trip was a month long and I think that is a perfect amount of time for first time travelers.   Changing sheets, cleaning the bed frames, and washing patients will most likely take up all your time. Instead of shadowing doctors and nurses, we mostly worked with the nurse assistants.

ABV: volunteers needs to be proactive, jump in and ask to help with any tasks, dont expect a schedule of shadowing one on one doctors or nurses, you need to ask to help in all the areas of the hospital or clinic, also you need to talk with your supervisor, local coordinator if you are not getting the exposure you want, also you can always email ABV US to have us inform of any change you want.

7- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security, friendliness, quality others:

The accommodations were better than expected, clean and comfortable. The meals were also great, very convenient and prepared well. I felt safe, the only setting where I felt I needed to be careful was walking around at night. And everyone I’ve met was extremely nice, some of the most pleasant people I know.

ABV: we have a curfew so volunteer shouldn’t be walking around at night and take a cab home if you are late.

8- What was your favorite memory of this trip?:

Program: the best part of the program was actually shadowing doctors the last 2 days in the emergency section of the hospital.

Host Family:  Eating meals together, talking about our days, and laughing with each other was a highlight every day.

Country:  Traveling to the jungle and baños we’re equally incredible. I’m extremely happy I went to both places and would go back in a heartbeat

9- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling? (who helped you, emails, phone calls, chat online, how fast did you got an answer, did you got all your answers)

ABV support prior to travel was exceptional in every way possible.

9.1- What do you think about the reservation system online?

Reservations and setting up the trip was also easy and clear.

9.2- Who did you find Abroaderview website (keywords, search engine, word mouth to mouth, recommended by .., other)

I found out about the program by my Aunt, who heard about it from a friend.

Volunteer Peru

1.- Whats was a daily schedule at the program, hours volunteered?

I study Spanish in a local school from 8:30-12:30 during the week. After classes, I have a break for two hours. After the break, I volunteer in an orphanage until 5:30. The rest of the evening is mine to spend as I wish.

2.- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

Host Family: The family was very welcoming and warm. They make me feel like part of the family. I was not expecting such kind people.

Program: I was surprised about how self-sufficient the girls in the orphanage are.

Country: It was shocking how quickly the weather conditions can change here. It can be warm and sunny one moment and then cold and rainy the next.

3.- What was the most challenging thing you experienced?

Host Family: In the house, the family speaks Spanish. Although I have studied the language a little in the past, it was very difficult for me to communicate and understand them at first, but I am improving at a rapid pace.

Program: Communication continues to be difficult. This is greatly due to the fact that much of the conversation is in a group and not directed at me. It is sometimes difficult to understand the language.

Country: I was not expecting to negotiate so much in Cusco. From taxis to local markets, there is often not a set price. For example, a taxi driver may say the taxi ride costs 6 soles, but you can and should argue for a fairer price when the drivers try to overcharge.

4.- Any tips for future volunteers… (clothing, travel, personal items, donations, money, internet)

Make sure to bring clothing for layering. The weather is very volatile.

Additionally, the altitude caused me small problems, but I believe the altitude sickness pills I took helped me greatly.

Volunteer in Peru

5.- Other things volunteers should know before coming here:

Host Family: It is important to understand that the food may be very different than what is typical in other countries. For example, the people here eat a lot more carbohydrates than in my country. It is important to understand that many of the differences that are experienced while abroad are not necessarily bad. They are just different.

Program: It is important to communicate with the local coordinator if any problems arise. They likely can help significantly. Communication is key.

Country: Cusco is at a very high altitude. It is important to take it easy for the first few days to avoid altitude sickness.

6.- Personal Paragraph about the experience (ABV Program Testimonial):

I have really enjoyed my time in Peru. Cusco is a beautiful city with many activities. The girls and workers in the orphanage are quite self-sufficient here. The most important thing the orphanage needs from volunteers are donations. These can range from clothing to school supplies to other necessary materials.

7.- How would you describe your accommodation: meals, security, friendliness, quality others:

Meals: They are normally very good. One should expect lighter breakfasts and dinners and larger lunches.

Security: The city feels very safe. Like any city, it is best not to be out alone during the night. This is simply practical.

friendliness: Everyone has been friendly here. There have been no problems for me.

Quality: The city is beautiful and has many fun activities for volunteers during time away from work.

8.- How was the local ABV Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country: Airport, orientation, introduction to the program, schedule of the program, friendliness, solving problems?

The local coordinator is excellent. She is very friendly and responds quickly to messages. She is willing to help volunteers with any problems or with scheduling travel.

9.- What was your favorite memory of this trip?:

Accommodation: I really enjoyed spending the 30th of August with the family. It was a holiday in Peru, and the entire family gathered and ate at a rustic restaurant. It was a beautiful day.

Program: I really enjoyed communicating with the girls from the orphanage. I remember my first successful conversation with them in Spanish. It felt very rewarding.

Country: I really enjoyed traveling on the weekends and would highly recommend this. Travel was surprisingly inexpensive. I am looking forward to visiting the Rainbow Mountains this weekend.

Gap Year Peru

10.- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling? Emails, chat online, calls, volunteer guide:

I found Sarah to be very helpful and friendly through emails. I primarily communicated with her.

11.- What do you think about the reservation system online?

It was very straight forward and easy to understand. I see no problems with it.

12.- Who did you find Abroaderview website
?

I traveled to Peru with my friend, Megan Lacombe, and she showed me the website for the first time.

13.- Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?

Yes, I am more than willing to communicate with them.

1.-How was the local ABV Coordinator and the support provided in-country?

Raphael was absolutely excellent. He was extremely accommodating making sure we are well taken care of throughout the entire duration of our stay. He set us up with pre-medical and medical students as well as dentists in training who hung out with us most of the time and took us to Fantastic places off the beaten path that you would never see as an average tourist. They went with us to Fantastic restaurants and we ate some of the best local food to be found in La Ceiba… maybe even all of Honduras. He made sure we had all needed meals breakfast, lunches, & dinners made for us at his house and ready when needed. Sometimes when we went out we didn’t need to eat at home and he was very understanding about that. He escorted us to and from the facilities where we worked and made sure that we had everything we needed at all times.

He put us up in his house and took care of us like we were his own relatives.

I can’t say enough great things about Raphael.

2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

At the program: The complete and total lack of good modern, operating equipment.

At the accommodation: If you’re used to United States standards it’s a slight adjustment but nothing you cannot adjust to or live comfortably with once you get used to it.

About the country. Things seem to break down and fall apart everywhere  and it appears that there is not enough money to fix them.Virtually every road is in need of significant and major repair. Because of this every car breaks down due to the constant shaking and rattling through the potholes.

3- What was most difficult to experience?

At the program: Lack of up-to-date functional modern equipment which makes your job so much easier to do. Therefore without this equipment you have to get very creative to get the job and the task accomplished.

At the accommodation: There was no air conditioning and no working shower.

The country: The driving here is literally insane.If you Drive-In most countries like USA Canada, Mexico or Europe you will not readily understand the rules of driving down here which seem to be anything goes. I would not recommend renting a car and trying to drive. That would be insanity. Instead take taxis they are everywhere and easily available almost anytime.

4- Any tips for future volunteers…

Clothing: If you are a doctor and have your doctor’s coat, you need pants. It’s very hot and you think you might be able to wear shorts but as we all know you must wear pants to the hospitals as well as the dental clinics. If you don’t have pants you will need to buy some.

Donations: Bring as much medical supplies as you possibly can of almost any variety. Dentists should bring full armamentarium of dental extraction instrumentation.  They’re in dire need of an ultrasonic and Root Planer. Any old equipment that you’re no longer using bring it. They are in dire need of sterilizers old autoclaves that may still function that you don’t use anymore, etc.

Any used instruments or tools that you have that you can part with, bring them then donate them.

Weather: It is very hot because there’s no air conditioning. Don’t worry about that you will sleep comfortably with the fan they provide. We were worried about mosquitoes before we came but we haven’t seen a single mosquito while we’ve been here in La Ceiba.

4.1- Other things volunteers should know:

a.- Bring lempiras in small denominations – 100 lempiras or less. Most places do not have change for $500 lempira bills.

b.- You need to carry small bills for taxis and you need 25 lempiras for each person that rides. Whether it’s two blocks or three miles it’s the same Fair.

c.- since you are donating equipment and supplies, you will have room in your luggage for souvenirs. They have really cool souvenirs here. And that’s a good way to pump some money into the local economy.

d.- everyone involved in this program is extremely willing to help and they’re awesome.

5- Personal Paragraph (ABV Program Testimonial):

Volunteering to provide medical and dental care here in La Ceiba Honduras was one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences of my life. The people here really need the care and the equipment that we donated. It was also rewarding being able to perform and teach some extremely useful Oral & Maxillofacial surgical procedures on the patients and doctors working here  (respectively). Other than the initial snag upon our arrival here in La Ceiba everything else was fantastic. I would highly recommend doing this program here in La Ceiba Honduras to anyone.

6- How would you describe your accommodation, meals and security:

In the United States we are used to a completely different way of living our day-to-day lives. Everything is in good repair, everything works well and everything is comfortable and easy. In most other parts of the world that is not always the case. That is true of Honduras. However, while accommodations may have been somewhat lacking to most people given the way they live in the US, once you get used to them everything is just fine.Not having a working shower is something you definitely have to, but do get used to. You simply use the bucket and dump water over your head, lather up and then dump water again to rinse it’s no big deal.

Meals were great – typical standard cultural Honduras cuisine. This is exactly what we wanted anyway I would not change a thing the meals were great. Security is excellent in fact probably the strong point of the accommodations here. There’s a locking gate out in front of the house which appears to be virtually impenetrable and that made us feel extremely safe.

7- What was your favorite memory of this trip?

Program: performing and teaching a little known surgical procedure for the temporomandibular joint on a patient who could not open his mouth without significant pain in his right jaw joint. I performed an arthrocentesis procedure and taught the dentist in the clinic how to do it for their patients in the future. The patient experienced immediate improvement and he was very appreciative.

Country: The beauty of the country as well as its people and their welcoming and accommodating spirit. They also are, without a doubt, very appreciative of the help we gave them the work we did and the equipment and supplies we donated.

8.- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?

Pretty good overall.  Good functional easy to navigate and had lots of good information.

9 – Can you tell us how did you find or know about A Broader View?  (You can also write on the back of the page…)

A friend of mine who is an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon  (such as myself) has a son who also wants to become an Oral & Maxillofacial surgeon. That requires volunteering at hospitals in the USA, doing community service, and joining programs like A Broader View. My son contacted his son, found out about the program and made the arrangements to do some volunteer work. Since he’s only 17 years old I took time out from my busy practice to come with him and assist the people in the community in La Ceiba Honduras.

She was perfect, she was the epitome of calm and support.  She completely stopped what she was doing to answer questions or give us direction.  Irma and Alan of the after-school program were also especially accommodating.  Everyone of them was also fun to be with.

Shelter program

2) What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

I was surprised by how much I wanted to completely uproot my life and move it to Xela.  I loved the people, the food and the language.

3) What was the most difficult to experience?

Leaving the children was definitely the most difficult experience, especially at the shelter.  The girls at the shelter had deep deep hurt.  They wore so much of it on their faces, I wanted to take them all home with me.

4) Any tips for future volunteers (clothing/travel/personal items)

Bring a full size towel for the home stay or buy one locally and leave it for your host family.  It is a nice gesture, but you will fall in love with your hosts and truly want to leave something.  An umbrella, a sweater and short sleeved shirt everyday, because everyday has extremes.  Oh, and wash the dishes for your hostess. It is the least one can do for the all that they do for you.

5) Other things volunteers should know?

Xelapan has tremendous pastries!

Did I mention a trip to Xelapan?

Xelapan cream filled anything?

Xelapan!

6) ABV Testimonial

This week was an amazing experience. On my first day at the shelter, I saw two girls separate themselves and cry huge shoulder heaving tears without sound.  One told me she had only been there two days.  I sat with them, held their hands, kept their hair out of their eyes.  Their hurt was so deep.  I told them how important they were. They clung to me when I saw them two days later, they ran to me.  On the last day she barely left my side and just kept hugging me.  Before I left, she told me she would never forget me.  I know I will never forget her.

7) How would you describe your accommodations meals/security

Jovita was more perfect than perfect.  She was so sweet and helpful.  She was also an excellent cook.  I loved the stories we told around the table (sobre mesa).  It drew us even closer together.  I could have moved in forever!

8) What was your favorite memory of this trip?

There are too many to choose from.  I loved all of the children’s arms around my waist, the warmth of the Xela people, the hot springs, the weaving opportunity, our hostess, our program heads, the food (Xelapan!) the fabrics, and how close we all became as a group.

9) How was the ABV USA support prior to traveling?

They were very helpful in answering questions and making certain we had all our paperwork in.  They were quick to get back to us.

10) Are you willing to speak to potential ABV volunteers?

Absolutely!  Any time.

Volunteer Chile

1.- Hi Tell us about you:
Full name (first and last): Ericka Bernard-Bedard
What do you do (study or work, where): J’étudie à l’Université d’Ottawa en Sciences de la santé et je travaille dans une résidence de personnes agées.
Where are you from (city and country): Ottawa, Canada

1.1.- Why did you choose to volunteer in Chile La Serena, what program(s) are you doing and why?
Why Chile: J’ai choisi le programme avant de choisir le pays. J’aime beaucoup voyager autour du monde et j’ai toujours voulu visiter  l’Amerique du Sud et decouvrir de nouvelles cultures. Ce pays m’offrait aussi la chance de pouvoir travailler avec mes quatre amies. C’est un très beau pays et je connais beaucoup de gens qui l’avait visité et qui me l’on recommandé. Le pays est quand même assez sécuritaire. De plus, venir au chili me donnait la chance de pouvoir pratiquer mon espagnol.

What program: orphanage assistance
Why this program: Travailler avec des jeunes enfants et bébés m’interesse beaucoup. J’adore les enfants. Savoir que j’aide à leurs développements et que je puisse faire une différence dans leurs vies me rend très heureuse. Je travail avec les personnes agées au Canada donc je voulais avoir l’expérience de travailler avec des enfants. Je savais que les enfants allaient apprécier ma présence et mon aide.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program?
Program: À quel point les employés (tías, infirmières, docteur, bénévoles) prennent bien soin des enfants. De plus, les employés étaient très contents d’avoir des bénévoles pour les aider et à quel point ils me faisaient confiance avec les enfants. Même si c’était difficile de communiquer parfois, je me sentais à l’aise et voulu.
Host Family: Ma famille était vraiment accueillante et extrêmement gentille. Je me sentais comme chez moi et ma famille s’occupait très bien de moi. J’étais surprise car même si ma famille ne parlait pas anglais nous avons quand-même pu très bien communiquer.
Country: Il n’y a pas beaucoup de gens qui parlent anglais ou français. C’était donc très difficile de me faire comprendre ou de comprendre les gens qui ne parlaient que l’espagnol. Malgré ce fait, les personnes sont très chaleureuses et acceptantes. De plus, le coût de la vie ici est très cher.

3. What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program?
Program: Le fait de ne pas être capable de bien communiquer en espagnol ou de me faire comprendre par les employés. De plus, être séparér de mes amies durant le bénévolat était difficile au début car j’ai du sortir de ma zone de comfort pour me rendre à l’aise.
Host Family: La planification des excursions et du transport pouvait parfois être difficile car c’était difficile de communiquer. En général, rester avec ma famille d’accueil était très agréable et une des meilleures expériences que j’ai jamais eu.
Country: La communication était la chose la plus difficile. Ne pas pouvoir bien parler espagnol pouvait m’empêcher de me faire comprendre. J’avais aussi parfois de la difficulté à comprendre les gens puisqu’ils parlent très vite. Ceci pouvait être un inconvénient lorsque j’avais besoin de demander des directions ou des questions.

4. Any tips for future volunteers….
Clothing: Durant l’hiver la température peut être très froide surtout la nuit. Il est important d’amener beaucoup de linge chaud (bas, pantalons, sweatshirt, manteau, tuque). Il n’y a pas de chauffage dans les maison donc la nuit ça devient très froid. J’ai dormi avec un hoodie et une tuque a chaque soir.
Sightseeing: Il y a beaucoup d’endroit à visiter et d’excursions à faire autour de La Serena (pisco elqui, phare de La serena, excursion en mer pour voir les dauphins, santiago…). Il est important d’écouter les conseils de ta famille d’accueil et de savoir dans quoi s’embarquer afin de rester en sécurité lors des visites. De plus, les excursions peuvent être assez couteuses donc il est important d’apporter assez d’argent pour pouvoir les faire car certaines compagnies ne prennent pas de cartes de crédits.
Donations: Il est important de s’informer pour savoir ce qui serait bon à apporter ou le plus en besoin dans le programme. Par exemple, j’ai apporté des jeux et des vêtements pour des jeunes enfants. Avant de décider ce que j’allait apporté je me suis informé auprès de l’organisation afin d’avoir des suggestions.
Laundry/internet: Dans ma famille d’accueil il y avait de l’internet et je pouvais faire du lavage. Je devais payer 5000 pesos (pas cher) pour deux semaines afin de pouvoir utiliser l’internet. L’internet fonctionnait très bien donc j’ai pu parler à ma famille et mes amis au Canada à chaque jour. Ma famille d’accueil m’a laisser faire mon lavage pour gratuit car j’avais apporter mon propre savon à linge.

5. Other things volunteers should know about:
a.- City/town: La Serena est une vraiment belle ville. Même si c’est une petite ville il y a beaucoup à visiter. Les plages et les montagnes sont ravisssantes et la place central contient un beau petit marché oú on peut acheter des souvenirs. Puisque c’est une petit ville il y a seulement une minorité de gens qui parlent anglais donc afin de pouvoir communiquer c’est important de connaître une base d’espagnol. La ville peut être achalandée surtout durant les heures de pointe donc il est important de se prendre d’avance afin de se rendre au travail.
b.- Weather: Durant les mois d’hiver (juin-aout) , il fait assez froid surtout le matin et la nuit (entre 2 et 20 degré), maid la température peut varier. Il est important d’emporter beaucoup de linge chaud et un manteau. Il n’y a pas de chauffage dans les maisons donc il peut faire très froid la nuit.
c.- Local People: Les chiliens sont très gentils, sympathiques,généreux et chaleureux. Les gens ne parlent que l’espagnol donc ça peut causer des problèmes de communication. Même s’ils ne parlent pas anglais, ils sont toujours prêts à essayer de comprendre et aider le plus que possible.
d.- Tours: Il y a plusieurs choses à faire et visiter autour de La Serena. Je recommende d’aller visiter pisco elqui qui est une petit village à 1h30 d’autobus de La Serena. Elqui valley a un paysage extraordinaire et il y a beaucoup d’activités à faire (observatoire d’étoiles, randonné en cheval…). Il y a plusieurs hostals autour de la région aussi. Il est important de bien organiser les tours afin d’être en sécurité. La croisière (eco tours) était aussi une très belle expérience. J’ai pu voir beaucoup d’animaux marins et observer des paysages extraordianaires.

Volunteering in Chile

6. Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial), detail as possible:
Ce voyage était absolument incroyable. J’ai adoré visité le chili. Les gens sont extrêmements chaleureux. Ma famille d’accueil était super gentille et très accueillante et je me sentais très confortable en restant chez eux. Être bénévole dans l’orphelinat était une expérience inoubliable. Les enfants étaient très adorables. Avoir l’experience de travailler avec eux était superbe. Les employés étaient super accueillantes et me faisait très confiance avec les enfants. Savoir que je mettais un sourire dans leurs visages en jouant et en prenant soin d’eux me rendait très heureuse.

7. How would you describe your:
Accommodation: La maison de notre famille d’accueil était très belle. Il y avait beaucoup de chambres. Ma chambre était dans un ajout et il fallait passé dehors afin de s’y rendre. J’ai partagé une chambre avec mon amie mais j’avais mon propre lit. Je me sentais très en sécurité dans la maison car elle était entourée d’une immense clôture. Il y avait un salon où on pouvait regarder la télévision et parler. Il y avait deux salles de toilettes dans la maison et il y avait de l’eau chaude pour les douches.
Meals (favorite): Les repas étaient délicieux. À chaque jour nous avions trois repas. Lorsque nous allions au travail Vilma nous préparait un dîner (sandwich, yogourt, fruit, barre granola). Nous avons mangé beaucoup de pain. À chaque matin on mangeait du pain et des céréales, confiture, fromage, fruits. Tous les soupers étaient différents et Vilma était un très bon chef.
Security: La serena est une ville très sécuritaire. Je me sentais très en sécurité dans la maison car elle était entourée d’une grande clôture avec des piques. Je ne me suis jamais senti en danger lors de mon séjour au chili.
Host family: Ma famille d’accueil était très accueillante et chaleureuse. Notre mère d’accueil nous traitait comme ses propres filles et prenait très bien soin de nous. Elle nous a fait visité plusieurs choses à La Serena et elle était toujours disponible si on avait besoin d’aide.

8. What was your memory of this trip?
Program: Les enfants sont mon meilleur souvenir. Ils étaient adorables. Chacun était différent et mignon de sa propre façon. Leurs personalités et comportements sont extrêmements mignons. Jouer avec eux et mettre un sourir dans leurs visages me rendait très heureuse. Je vais m’ennuyer de chacuns d’entre eux et j’espère pouvoir les revoir dans le futur.
Host Family Mon meilleur souvenir de ma famille d’accueil était les soupers et les conversations avec Vilma. Nous nous faisions rire et nous nous amusions. Cela nous a permis d’en apprendre d’avantage sur la culture chilienne et de pratiquer notre espagnol.
Country: Un de mes meilleurs souvenirs au chili était la plage et les gens chaleureux. La plage était super belle et malgré la temperature froide nous nous sommes quand même baigner. De plus les gens étaient tellements gentils et essayait le plus possible de nous aider malgré notre différence de language.

9. How was the local ABV Coordinator, the staff and the support provided in-country? Be as detailed as possible.
Airport: À l’aéroport de La serena c’etais très facile de trouver notre coordinateur de ABV car l’aéroport est très petite. Le coordinateur et vilma nous ont emporter de l’aéroport à chez elle en voiture.
Orientation day: Vilma nous a donner nous a fais visiter le centre de la Serena, la plage et les meilleurs restaurants. Elle nous a de plus montrer où prendre l’autobus afin de se rendre au travail et où on travaillait. Graca à cela nous nous sentioms beaucoup plus en sécurité et à l’aise à se promener seul dans la ville. Cela nous a aider a faire des plans aussi.
Daily Support: Nous avons eu extrêmement beaucoup d’aide de notre famille d’accueil. Elle repondait à tous nos questions et était toujours disponible pour nous aider. Elle prenait soin de nous, nous conduisait autour de la ville et a fait tout son possible afin de nous rendre le plus confortable possible.

10. How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers? 
Les informations reçues de ABV étaient très utiles. L’organisation répondait extrêmement vite aux couriels et donnait des réponses détaillés. La seule chose est que nous avons reçues les informations sur la famille d’accueil et les lieux exacts du projet et de la maison très dernières minutes ce qui me stressait un peu. Le guide d’orientation et les couriels afin de bien se préparer pour le voyage étaient très utiles et apréciés.

11. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience?
Oui

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Volunteer Chile

1.- Hi Tell us about you:

I am 19 years old, my mother language is french and I live in Ottawa, Canada.
What do you do (study or work, where): I study Public Relations at the University of Ottawa and I am a receptionist in an oral and maxillofacial surgery clinic in Ottawa.
Where are you from (city and country): Ottawa, Canada

1.1.- Why did you choose to volunteer in Chile La Serena, what program(s) are you doing and why?
Why Chile: J’ai décidé d’aller au Chili car ABV me l’a recommandé lorsque j’ai choisi le programme d’orphelinat. Nous voulions aller au Péru mais il n’y avait pas assez de place pour mes 4 amies et moi. Je voulais aussi vraiment voyager un pays dans l’Amérique du Sud vu que je vis dans l’Amérique du Nord. Un des mes plus grand but était d’acquérir de nouvelles connaissances au sujet d’une différente culture et j’envisagais faire cela au Chili.
What program: J’ai travaillé dans le programme d’oprhelinat dans la ville de La Serena, au Chili.
Why this program: J’ai choisi ce programme puisque je voulais travailler avec les bébés et les enfants. De plus, je voulais travailler dans un endroit qui me sensibilisais. Ceci dit, j’ai choisi ce programme car aider les enfants qui en ont le plus de besoin me tient à coeur.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program? 
Volunteer Abroad Program: Selon moi, la chose la plus surprenante du programme a été que il n’y avait pas beaucoup de bébé et qu’il y a fallu travailler dans une école aussi. Nous n’avions pas été prévenues qu’il n’y avait pas assez de bébés pour mes amies et moi et qu’il fallait se séparer donc, nous avions été prises par surprise.
Host Family: Selon moi, la chose la plus surprenante de ma famille d’acceuil était qu’il y avait emplement de place pour mes amies et moi (nous étions 5 en tout). Nous pouvions dormir et se préparer confortablement sans être dans nos propres jambes.
Country: Selon moi, la chose la plus surprenante du Chili était que presque personne ne parlais anglais. Il était dur pour moi de comprendre, pour une personne qui est complètement bilingue, que pas beaucoup de gens où que nous avons restez ne parlaient que l’espaniol.

3. What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program? 
Gap Year Program: La chose la plus difficile que j’ai experiencé durant le programme à l’oprhelinat était que j’ai été séparé de mes amies. Il est plus facile de s’adapter à de nouvelles culture et à une langue (qui est pour nous inconnue) en groupe.
Host Family: La chose la plus difficile que j’ai experiencé avec ma famille d’acceuil était la planification des excursions et du transport. Vu que nous n’avions qu’une base d’espaniol et que notre mère d’acceuil ne parle juste que l’espaniol, il peut y avoir beaucoup de confusion.
Country: La chose la plus difficile que j’ai experiencé au Chili était que mes amies et moi n’avions qu’une base de connaissance en espaniol. Il était très dur de communiquer avec la communauté vu que la plupart d’entre eux sont unilingues.

4. Any tips for future volunteers….
Clothing: Un de mes conseils pour les vêtements serait de ne pas pacter trop légèrement… Un autre serait de vraiment pacter en guise de la température; Nous avions froid la nuit vu qu’il n’y avait pas de chauffage dans la maison.
Sightseeing: Un conseil que je donnerais pour les excursions serait de faire ceux dont ta famille d’acceuil te recommande et de planifier d’avance. Il est important de savoir où tu vas et dans quoi tu t’embarques lorsque tes dans un autres pays que ton pays natal.
Donations: Un conseil que je donnerais pour les charités seraient de t’informer correctement des éléments de ton programme avant d’acheter quoi que ce soit. J’était avertie qu’il y avait beaucoup de bébés à l’orphelinat et non beaucoup de “toddlers”. Ceci dit, j’ai acheté pleins se suces et de linge de bébés et cela ne leurs étaient pas super avantageux.
Laundry/internet: Un conseil que je donnerais face à l’internet et au lavage est d’apporter de l’argent en guise de ceux-ci. Nous avons été chargées pour l’internet et le lavage (nous nous en attendions) mais, nous avions assez d’argent pour payer ceux-ci.

5. Other things volunteers should know about: 
a.- City/town: Quelque chose que les volontaires doivent garder en tête en pensant à la ville de La Serena est qu’il eat nécéssaire d’avoir une bonne base d’espaniol. La communauté de la Serena parle extrêmement vite et il est difficile de les comprendre.
b.- Weather: Quelque chose que les volontaires doivent garder en tête par rapport à la météologie est que il peut faire très froid dans les maison vu qu’il fait dans les alentours de 10°C et qu’il n’y a pas de chauffage dans les maisons.
c.- Local People: Quelque chose d’important à garder en tête par rapport au gens de la communauté de La Serena est qu’il y a beaucoup de gens dans les rues qui essait de vendre des choses mais, ils sont très chaleureux.
d.- Tours: Quelque chose d’important à garder en tête par rapport aux excursions est qu’il faut vraiment planifier d’avance et de prévoir un budget. Les excursions peuvent être plus chères que prévues.

Volunteering in Chile

6. Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial), detail as possible: 
J’ai fait mon bénévolat dans un orphelinat et j’ai travailler pendant deux semaine aux côté des éducatrices avec 9 “toddlers”. Il n’y avait pas le même nombre d’enfants à tous les jours mais il y avait quand même toujours quelque chose à faire. Au début la communication entre les educatrices et moi était vraiment difficile parce qu’elles parlaient très vite et elles n’étaient pas habituées en parler en guise de ma compréhension. Elles se fâchaient vite lorsqu’elles voulaient que je fasse une certaine tâche et que je ne les comprennaient pas. Il y a fallu utiliser google translate souvent ce que je trouvais une perte de temps. Cela c’est beaucoup améliorer après 2 jours. D’un autre côté, j’ai adoré travailler avec les enfants; j’étais contente d’apprendre qu’ils ont pleins d’appuis et qu’il y a beaucoup de gens qui prennent bien soins d’eux. J’ai adoré mes deux semaines dans l’orphelinat, les enfants était adorables!

7. How would you describe your: 
Accommodation: Mes amies et moi étions super bien accomodées par notre mère d’acceuil. Il y avait assez de place pour nous tous, elle était une excellante cuisinière et elle prenait soin de nous comme si nous étions ses propres filles.
Meals (favorite): Je suis une personne extrêmement difficile et j’ai adoré tout les mêts que notre mère d’acceuil nous a fait. Elle prenait en considérations tout les aspects différent des goûts de mes amies et moi.
Security: Je me considèrais en pleine sécurité dans la maison de ma famille d’acceuil, dans la ville et dans l’orphelinat en tant que tel. Je ne me suis jamais senti en danger et il y a des clôtures partout.
Host family: Ma famille d’acceuil était extrêmement chaleureuse et acceuillante. Notre mère d’acceuil a tout fait pour nous accomoder et elle prenait soins de nous comme nous étions ses propres filles. Depuis notre arrivée, elle a tout fait pour qu’on soit le plus confortable que possible. Je l’ai adorée!

8. What was your memory of this trip? 
Volunteer Program: Un de mes souvenirs de ce programme était les enfants en tant que tels! Ils étaient adorables! Ils se comportaient vraiment bien et cela me brisait le coeur de penser qu’ils étaient des oprhelins.
Host Family: Un des mes meilleurs souvenirs de ma famille d’acceuil était que nous avions toujours des fous rires avec notre mère d’acceuil. Cela nous rapprochait énormément et j’étais vraiment choyée de pouvoir la faire rire malgré notre différence de langue.
Country: Un de mes meilleurs souvenirs du Chili était que les gens sont super chaleureux malgré le fait que plusieurs d’entre eux ne parlent que l’espaniol et que je le parle pas. Ils essayaient quand même de m’aider le plus que possible.

9. How was the local ABV Coordinator, the staff and the support provided in-country? Be as detailed as possible.
Airport: When we got to the airport in La Serena, it was very easy for us to find our ABV coordinator. The only hickup was that we they didn’t have enough space in the car to fit all of us and our luggage so some of my friends had to wait for another ride. The house was just 5 minutes away.
Orientation day: On orientation day, we had gotten a tour from our host mom and it was perfect! She showed us the best restaurants, the beach and the safest spots around the centre of the town! It really helped us coordinate our plans better.
Daily Support: In the past two weeks, we have gotten a lot of support from our host mom. She helped us with literally anything! She gave us medication when we got sick, she gave us a lot of rides and she was always optimistic!

10. How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?  

Je crois que ABV nous a vraiment aidé à organiser notre voyage, tout était préparé pour nous (logement, organisation, programme, etc.); Cela était merveilleux et je n’ai rien à recommander! Il a été facile de voyager.

11. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience? 
Oui, je suis prête à parler à des bénévoles d’ABV potentiels à propos de mon expérience au Chili avec ma famille d’acceuil, le programme, la sécurité, la nourriture, les transports, etc. …

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Volunteer Ecuador

1- How was the local ABV Coordinator and the support provided in-country?
Both coordinators were knowledgeable, professional, responsible and very kind. The girls felt that they understood how to connect to them as teens.

2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?
It was impressive how nice and helpful everyone was across the board.

3- What was most difficult to experience?
I would have to say stomach sickness due to change of food and water. This was very uncomfortable.

4- Any tips for future volunteers… (Clothing, travel, personal items, donations)
Pack light versatile clothing and should include waterproof shoes and jacket. Bring items you need like sunscreen, insect repellant, toiletries, anything else you may need from the states. The brands we are use to are not available in Ecuador.

I would ask to communicate with someone where you are volunteering to find out what donations they may need in advance.

5- Other things volunteers should know:
a. Bring a small laundry detergent so you can hand wash clothes. Clothing gets damp this time of year, so this will keep everything fresh

b. If your stomach does not feel well go right to pharmacy to get medications. They are pretty effective.

Volunteering in Ecuador

6- Personal Paragraph (ABV Program Testimonial):

I would recommend volunteering with A Broader View because they offer a broad range of volunteering opportunities not just all over Ecuador but all over the world. The staff are all very knowledgeable and accommodating. They were very willing to work with up in constructing a program that worked for us given our tight timeframe. Most of all we felt taken care of which is important when you are so far away from home is a foreign environment.

7- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e: host family, on-site, shared)

The accommodations were safe, comfortable and meals were well balanced and nutritious.

8- What was your favorite memory of this trip?
The children were adorable and eager to work with us. We brought many English books translated into Spanish which they could not wait to get their hands on. Their enthusiasm was priceless.

9- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?

The support was very good in preparation for travel.

10 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?

Yes anytime!