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  Ecuador

• All Other Regions of Ecuador: 
Guayaquil

Term: Throughout the year 
Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: throughout the year

Description: Straddling the equator and bordered by Colombia and Peru, Ecuador is a country abundant with rich culture and natural beauty. Tropical coasts, temperate highlands and rain forests provide plenty of scope for any traveler, while carnivals and festivals provide visitors with colorful entertainment. Participants will enjoy shopping at the local markets, taking an evening cruise down the Guayas River, walking along the Malecon (riverwalk) and up to Las Peñas, or sampling some local dishes. Whether enjoying the breath taking vistas of the Andes Mountains, the serenity of the Guayas river, or the laughter of child in need, Ecuador is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Highlights:
* Experience first hand the Ecuadorian culture by living with host families.
* Help local organizations improve the quality of life for many Ecuadrian families and children.
* Experience the rich culture and geographic diversity Ecuador has to offer.
* Gain a valuable experience in giving back to Ecuadorian communities while learning marketable skills.

Ecuador is one of those rare destinations in the world that seems to have the right combination of natural beauty, intriguing history, and vibrant culture. Nestled along the Equator in the northwest corner of the South American continent, much of the country still remains wild and uncharted. It is home to the highest active volcano in the world, pristine Pacific beaches, and virgin tropical rainforests as well as ancient Incan history now echoed through the lively Ecuadorian culture.

"Volunteering in Guayaquil, Ecuador was a life-changing experience for me. I made a difference and it was fun and educational too. The best trip ever!" - Sashanna Saunches

Housing
Students will be housed with local families in Guayaquil. Students may have a single or shared room (with the same gender). Homestay families will provide most meals. Items such as linens will be available for students to use, free of charge. Each home is equipped with running water, electricity and indoor plumbing.

Minimum Education: High School

Intern Types: Admin (Recreation, Parks), Development, Education, Field-Study, History, Interdisciplinary, Occupational, Envir. Health, Social Sciences and Social Work

Languages: English and Spanish

Cost in US$: $1,175 (2 weeks); $1,875 (1 month); $2,475 (2 months); $3,475 (3 months) Longer Placements Available *cost may change at any time due to the currency exchange

Cost Includes: Emergency evacuation services, Food, Housing, In-country orientation/Training, International travel, Language instruction and Pre-departure orientation/Training

Included: Placement and support, housing, most meals, travel insurance, airport pickup. Not Included: Round-trip airfare, personal expenses, some meals, airport taxes, visa expenses, daily transportation expenses.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer Projects: community centers, culture, education, health education, orphans, popular education, street kids and volunteering

Age Range: 16+ years old

This Program is open to World Wide Participants. .

Typical Living Arrangement: Home-stays

Participants Travel to Ecuador Independently Or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups of different sizes

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time Is 2-3 Months

International Education Programs at Jacksonville University's Mission Statement: International Education Programs (IEP) at Jacksonville University promotes global experiences by engaging students and faculty in study, internship and volunteer programs that will expose them to other countries, cultures, languages and people. International Education Programs (IEP) at Jacksonville University promotes cultural immersion through challenging study programs, relevant internship placements, and life-changing service learning opportunities in 19 different countries around the world. Our number one priority is to consistently offer the support services and resources that enable participants to immerse in the local culture, contribute to the local community, and learn more about themselves and the world through their travel experiences. IEP programs cater to individual needs based on desired length of stay, language competency, location, and academic discipline.

Year Founded: 2000