As a volunteer on this project, you will be able to create your own
workshops to teach children. This could be an English workshop or any
other skill you’d like to teach. You can also help with an existing
environmental education program called “Educa Osa”. Additionally, you
will help as a volunteer at the public library in Puerto Jiménez, the
biggest town on the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica. The Osa Peninsula is an
economically challenged area with few employment opportunities and
education in this area of Costa Rica isn’t up to the same standards as
in the rest of the country. However, kids are often very eager to learn
more, and workshops and classes outside of school are very popular in
this community. The parents are extremely grateful for your help because
they want their children to have the best education possible.
During your volunteer time, you will have the freedom to think of all
kinds of different workshops and classes to start, or you can help with
existing workshops already developed by other volunteers and employees
at the library. There is a team of people at the library who will be
able to help you with your workshop plans, and with whom you can discuss
your ideas. They are also there to help if you struggle with the
language, or with anything personal. You will quickly feel like a part
of this beautiful community in one of the most rural and remote areas of
Costa Rica.
This project can be divided into two parts:
1. Workshops at the community center and library.
You
will be able to create classes and workshops. Examples of workshops
that have been given at the library in previous years are English
classes, dance classes, jewelry making, Spanish classes, and private
tutoring. You can make this entirely your own; think of something you’re
good at and teach the local kids (or adults). Language classes –
specifically English – are especially welcome and are greatly
appreciated in this community. However, any fun class you come up with
that the kids can do together outside of school is great!
2. Library and community center help:
The
library always needs help with different things as well. The library
front desk needs manning – the number of days is something that can be
discussed with the team there – and you may also need to help with
organizing, painting, and doing other tasks to keep the space up and
running. However, these are often small tasks, which leaves enough time
to prepare for your classes! There is also time to increase your
language skills by reading and speaking – seeing as there are many great
books in the library, and every day you will encounter Spanish- and
English-speaking customers!
The kids and adults will instantly take you into their hearts – and
you will not only be a teacher but a role model and friend. You will
make a positive difference in people’s lives while having fun, making
lots of friends, learning about Costa Rican customs and culture, and
gaining invaluable teaching experiences!
