Kristine Colyar is an ELAP Program Manager. Kristine works with students in Brazil, South Korea, Morocco and Cusco, Peru.
Looking for a way to give back to your global community this summer? Then take part in one of ELAP’s Summer Group Projects for two weeks during your break. Whether you choose Brazil, Costa Rica, or the Dominican Republic, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself into the local culture, practice your language skills, and contribute to a high-impact project within the local community. Volunteers will gain valuable experience abroad while meeting other globally-minded citizens. Adults of all ages and language backgrounds are welcome to apply. So what are you waiting for? Apply now to participate in the experience of a lifetime!
Project options:
Suspension Garden Construction Project: Florianópolis, Brazil
Dates Available: June 14- June 28
Volunteers will collaborate with locals to renovate and create a better environment for individuals residing in a nursing home by beautifying the grounds and building a garden that will provide sustainable food. Once completed, the residents will be able to care for the garden daily. Volunteers will also interact with the residents of the local nursing home and the children who live in the orphanage nearby.
Rainforest Conservation Project: Veragua, Costa Rica
Dates Available: June 23 – July 6
This action-packed program includes a variety of hands-on conservation projects as well as a multitude of excursions and tours to learn about the delicate, vibrant ecosystem of the rainforest. The goal of this conservation organization is to promote education, research and respect for the environment while supporting the sustainable development of local communities.
Children’s Recreational Center Playground Construction: Santiago, Dominican Republic
Dates Available:
Summer 1 July 7 – July 20
Summer 2 July 21- Aug 3
Make a positive living and learning environment for at-risk children living in one of the most underserved neighborhoods in Santiago. Children from 5-10 years old, including some who are Haitian immigrants, come to this center for meals, classes and extra curricular activities. ELAP’s project is to build a playground and garden that will help these children live a more active and healthy lifestyle. Vegetables produced in the garden will later be used as ingredients for meals served in the comedor. Volunteers will also interact with the children on a daily basis by playing games, organizing arts and crafts activities and teaching English.
Application deadlines for all 2-week Summer Group Projects have been extended to April 1st. Don’t miss out on this experience with purpose!
**Open-mindedness and a willingness to serve are essential requirements for all participants. All projects are subject to change.**
