Volunteering On A Work Group
Traveling with Seeds of Learning was something I know I will never forget. It was the most eye-opening, educational, and enriching experience of my life.
I know I will never look at the world in the same way again. Being a teenager in a small town, it is sometimes difficult to imagine that there is an outside world, but my scope has been significantly broadened. Many people have commented to me about how lucky I am to have had such a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
SOL’s Work Group Program is an opportunity for US volunteers to learn about and participate with local community members in El Salvador and/ or Nicaragua. They work alongside of community members to build classrooms and schools in a community where a school is lacking or inadequate. Participants form bonds with community members and develop relationships that are as significant as the physical building accomplishments.
Typically, volunteers work under the direction of a construction supervisor to build masonry walls, often in direct sun. Mixing cement, moving dirt, carrying water and tying rebar are part of the job. This is physically demanding work. SOL schools are built of brick or cement block, with cement floors and rebar-reinforced posts and bond beams. They are bright and airy, taking advantage of the temperate climate.
There are other tasks for those unable to perform strenuous activity or for those who want a break. Some volunteers help teach or entertain children instead of doing construction work, either for a single day or for their primary activity. Visits to homes, games with children, sharing pictures and pumping water from a well help to bond volunteers with the community. Spanish proficiency is not required, although those who learn at least some Spanish before going find their experience enriched.
In the evenings, participants often meet to discuss the day, explore social and cultural questions or visit with new friends. Some Work Groups travel on field trips to learn about cultural history, visit other development organizations, or learn about agricultural and humanitarian focused projects in the countries they visit.
Fees
The base fee is $1200. This fee covers all expenses in country (including food, transportation and accommodations) except for personal items, tourist cards and airport exit fees. It includes the funds for building materials. Group airfare costs may vary between $450 and $770. SOL will arrange all group travel and airfare.
Accommodations
2007 SOL work groups will stay in Ciudad Darío, Nicaragua and in a rural town in El Salvador (to be determined based on need in country). Building sites are located between 5 and 45 minutes away in rural areas. SOL provides rustic yet comfortable accommodations. Volunteers have meals catered by local families and restaurants and also have the opportunity to prepare some meals for themselves.
