Costarica Projects
- Costarica Home
- Working with Underprivileged Children
- School/Orphanage Construction
- Healthcare Project
- Dental Project
- Teaching English
- Eco-Agriculture
- Turtle Conservation
- Animal Care
- Beach Conservation
- Butterfly Garden Rainforest
- Community Outreach
- Medical Volunteering
- Turtle & Mangrove Conservation
- Volunteer Vacation
- Volunteers' Reviews
- Volunteers' Pictures
Community Outreach Volunteer Program in Costa Rica
Are you considering volunteering in Costa Rica? Do you have a desire to collaborate with local communities to improve their quality of life? Are you passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of underprivileged Costa Ricans? If you answered yes, our Community Outreach Volunteer Program is perfect for you!
Costa Rica, nestled in Central America, showcases stunning natural landscapes despite its compact size.
From lush cloud forests to pristine beaches and quaint rural villages, the country is a treasure trove of diversity. However, despite the thriving tourism industry, many communities in Costa Rica continue to face poverty.
Join us to work directly with local communities, immersing yourself in their culture and language while making a meaningful impact. Our ongoing community outreach program evolves with new initiatives to address the current needs of the community.
At our on-site community center, volunteers assist with various workshops, English classes, and after-school activities for children. Tasks include improving the center, preparing materials, and teaching English classes at both the community center and local elementary schools.
Additionally, volunteers participate in community development projects, focusing on environmental advocacy and education. Activities include creating educational signs, organizing recycling projects, conducting beach cleanups, painting buildings, and maintaining public spaces like libraries and parks. Join us in Costa Rica to be a part of these transformative projects!
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Volunteer Responsibilities & Impact
Volunteers in our Community Outreach Volunteer Program in Costa Rica have the opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of local communities while gaining valuable experience and insights. Here are some key responsibilities and the impact they have:
Assisting at the Community Center: Volunteers support our community center by helping with improvements, preparing materials for workshops and classes, and teaching English classes. By contributing to the center's activities, volunteers provide valuable educational opportunities and a safe space for children to learn and grow.
Community Development Projects: Volunteers participate in various community development projects focused on environmental advocacy and education. This may include creating educational signs, organizing recycling projects, conducting clean-up efforts, painting buildings, and maintaining public spaces. Through these initiatives, volunteers raise awareness about environmental issues and contribute to the overall improvement of the community's quality of life.
Cultural Exchange and Language Learning: Volunteers engage with local communities, immersing themselves in the culture and Spanish language. By interacting directly with community members, volunteers gain a deeper understanding of local customs and traditions while also sharing their own experiences and knowledge.
Positive Impact on Communities: The efforts of volunteers have a direct and positive impact on the communities they serve. By providing support at the community center and participating in development projects, volunteers help uplift underprivileged communities, empower individuals, and foster sustainable development.
Skills and Qualifications:
No special skills or qualifications are required to participate in our Community Outreach Volunteer Program in Costa Rica. Volunteers should be at least 18 years old and possess a passion for making a difference and enthusiasm for community engagement. A willingness to learn, adapt, and contribute to meaningful projects is all that's needed to join us in making a positive impact on local communities in Costa Rica.
This project is a greatly rewarding experience as each day will be filled with fun and learning.
Your actual daily schedule will vary based on what’s going on at the project at the time you are there, and you will receive more details on the actual hours you’ll be working in your orientation.
Keep an open mind when it comes to scheduling and know that in Costa Rica things tend to unfold in their own time, and probably not at the hurried pace you are used to back at home. The locals refer to it as “Tico Time” and it should be taken with patience, good humor, and a smile.
First Day : Our in-country coordinator will bring you to the project. You’ll meet the great local project staff and have an orientation. You’ll learn all about your service, your daily schedule, safety measures to follow, and the customs and culture of Costa Rica.
Weekdays : Your work begins on the second day, and your schedule is going to vary. A typical day might look something like this:
7.00 to 7.30 AM : Have a delicious local breakfast with your fellow volunteers.
7.45 AM: Get ready for a fun day of volunteering.
12.00 PM: Take a break for lunch. This is a great chance to bond with fellow Costa Rica volunteers or make friends with the local project staff.
3.00 PM: After a hard day’s work, you’ll be ready to relax and take in your beautiful surroundings.
Costa Rica Volunteer Trips: Dates and Fees
Program Dates
IFRE programs begin every Monday year-round. If you have travel constraints, you can still start your chosen program on any day of the year.
Volunteers can participate in our program from 1 week up to 12 weeks
Our Fees
Since 2006, IFRE has been the most trusted and respected volunteer abroad organization in the world, and also the most affordable. We’re dedicated to providing the highest quality volunteer programs at the lowest fees, which make it possible for everyone, especially students, to volunteer internationally and make a positive impact on the lives of others.
We believe in 100% transparency. Rest assured, we never use middlemen. Your one-time registration fee of $299 covers our administrative costs. The low weekly fee is paid in the host country directly to your host family and project (via country coordinator), and includes housing, food, and minor expenses. IFRE is a non-profit organization, so your program fees are tax deductible.
Volunteer Program Fees (US$)
| Duration | Project Fee |
|---|---|
| 1 Week | 320 |
| 2 Weeks | $640 |
| 3 Weeks | $960 |
| 4 Weeks | $1280 |
| 5 Weeks | $1600 |
| 6 Weeks | $1920 |
| 7 Weeks | $2,240 |
| 8 Weeks | $2,560 |
| 9 Weeks | $ 2,880 |
| 10 Weeks | $ 3,200 |
| 11 Weeks | $ 3,520 |
| 12 Weeks | $ 3,840 |
Comprehensive Travel Insurance $3.49/day ( below 28 years) and $4.49/day ( above 28 years) »
Spanish Immersion Classes
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica - $150/week
San Jose, Costa Rica - $125/week
Program Fees Cover:
- Shared Accommodation with host family
- 2 meals per day (Breakfast & Dinner)
- Airport Pick up
- In-country support
- Program Orientation
- Project Management
- Volunteer Certificate
- Discount for returning volunteers
Program Fees Exclude:
- Visas
- Airfare
- Personal expenses on soft drinks and foods
- Daily transportation
- Airport return transfer
The volunteering in Costa Rica program fees will cover expenses that will begin on the first day of the program to the last day of the program. If you arrive before the first day of the program or you decide you stay beyond your program’s last day, you will be responsible for any additional expenses.
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Accommodation and Meal
On project days, volunteers will be provided with two daily meals, served in shared group housing. For those seeking more privacy, private room upgrades are available at an extra charge. Accommodation choices range from dormitory-style living to upgraded private accommodations. Additionally, volunteers will have the opportunity to attend educational presentations and practical training sessions to familiarize themselves with their assigned tasks.
Learn more about IFRE’s accommodations and meals in Cost Rica.
Free Time and Weekend Exploration
You'll be engaged in volunteering for 4-5 hours a day, five days a week, allowing you ample time in the mornings, evenings, and weekends to explore the wonders of Costa Rica. Costa Rica provides an enriching cultural journey with an abundance of attractions, encompassing museums, theaters, live music venues, and a variety of dining experiences. Its historic downtown shopping district offers a picturesque setting to delve into the local culture and heritage.
Safety and in Country Support
IFRE prioritizes your safety above all else to ensure a successful and secure volunteer abroad experience. We guarantee safe housing and a warm host family to assist you in navigating the local area. Additionally, we collaborate with reputable organizations, provide health coverage, and offer the support of our dedicated in-country team, available to you at all times. Your well-being is our top concern throughout your volunteer journey.
Learn more about IFRE’s safety and support while volunteering in Costa Rica.
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FAQs
IFRE takes care of all the necessary arrangements for your volunteer trip to Costa Rica. Here are some important details to keep in mind when traveling abroad with us:
Arrival and Departure:
When you arrive, you'll land at Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose, Costa Rica. Please provide us with your flight details so we can arrange for your pickup. Our airport representative will meet you at the airport and take you to your placement. Please note that IFRE does not provide transportation for departure.
Visa:
It's important to apply for a tourist visa before your trip. Make sure to research the specific requirements for your home country, as some volunteers may qualify for an on-arrival visa depending on nationality. Additionally, Costa Rica offers a 90-day visa extension option. For more detailed information, please visit the Immigration website of Costa Rica.
Vaccination:
To protect yourself while traveling abroad, make sure your vaccinations are up to date. We recommend consulting a travel doctor who is familiar with health issues and epidemics in Costa Rica. You can also find vaccination requirements from reputable sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Global Health Canada, or Travelers' Health United Kingdom. It's highly recommended to get all necessary vaccinations before volunteering in our program in Costa Rica. Ensure you're up to date on routine vaccines, as well as Hepatitis A & B and Typhoid vaccinations.
Take a minute to complete the form and we will be in touch.