Involvement Volunteers International WHY we need you in Mexico
- Poverty is more prevalent in rural areas than in urban areas, with rural poverty rates nearly double those of urban areas.
- Indigenous communities in Mexico have some of the highest poverty rates in the country, with almost 75% of the indigenous population living in poverty.
- Poverty disproportionately affects women in Mexico, with higher rates of poverty and lower rates of employment and access to education compared to men.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on poverty in Mexico, with estimates suggesting that the poverty rate increased by around 10 percentage points in 2020 due to job losses and reduced economic activity.
- Despite the existence of a universal healthcare system, access to healthcare remains a significant issue in Mexico.
HOW can you help?
- Help improve the learning conditions of local students
- You will have the opportunity to revamp school inner and outer class rooms
- Our program also extends its embrace to local animal shelters
- Embrace the culture, connect with fellow participants
WHAT you can do?
- Renovating schools, libraries, and playgrounds
- Commit to a minimum of 5 hours a day
- Work on school infrastructure, classroom, playgrounds, or assisting at animal shelter construction and renovation
- Help out in the team of locals and fellow volunteers!
Why Involvement Volunteers International?
- Non Profit Org & Charity with 35+ Years Experience
- Impactful Projects to Choose From in Mexico
- Social Experiences - Sharing with International Volunteers
- Excellent Safety Record, In-Country 24/7 Support & Emergency Assistance
- 1 Application Fee - Multiple Countries
PROJECT NAME: CONSTRUCTION & RENOVATION
LOCATION: PUERTO ESCONDIDO
START DATES: WEEKLY (SAT/SUN ARRIVALS)
ACCOMMODATION: HOSTEL
MIN DURATION: ONE WEEK
MIN AGE: 16+
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Criminal background check required
Overview
Our construction program gives you the chance to make a big difference in this beautiful part of the world. We’re not just about building things; we’re about creating better futures. We work with local animal shelters and village schools to make things better for both students and animals.
As you join us in Puerto Escondido, you become a vital part of making change happen. Our main focus is fixing up and improving school buildings. Together, we make local schools better places to learn, creating inspiring spaces for students to dream big. This includes making colourful libraries, fixing up playgrounds, improving classrooms, and repairing school furniture. Your hands-on help ensures that students have a great environment to learn in.
In addition to our work in education, we also lend a hand to local animal shelters. You’ll help care for abandoned and needy animals, giving them the love, shelter, and hope they need.
Helping Students:
Your main job is to make things better for local students. This means getting involved in various projects to fix up and build things at village schools. You’ll work on improving both the inside and outside of classrooms, making playgrounds more fun, and fixing school furniture to create great places for students to learn and dream.
Taking Care of Animals:
Our program also includes helping out at local animal shelters. You might be feeding, cleaning, and spending time with animals that need care. Your kindness will make a big difference in their lives, giving them a better home.
Building a Community:
Being part of our program isn’t just about working on projects. You’ll also have the chance to get to know the local community in Puerto Escondido. Learn about the culture, connect with other participants, and add to the friendly atmosphere of the region.
Making a Lasting Impact:
Your role goes beyond just doing tasks; it’s about leaving a mark. Your hard work and caring for students and animals will bring hope, inspiration, and a brighter future to Puerto Escondido. Your actions will bring smiles to students, wagging tails to animals, and happiness to the local community.
You’ll be actively involved in program activities for at least 5 hours a day, with some adjustments on local holidays. This commitment ensures that your efforts have a real and lasting impact on the community and our projects.
Location
Puerto Escondido, situated on the Pacific coast of Mexico in the state of Oaxaca, is a picturesque seaside town celebrated for its world-class surfing beaches, such as Zicatela Beach, and its laid-back, bohemian atmosphere. This hidden gem offers visitors a taste of authentic Mexican culture, delightful cuisine, and breathtaking sunsets, making it a beloved destination for those seeking a tranquil coastal retreat with a touch of adventure.
Project Tasks
- Improve the learning conditions for students in the area by renovating schools, libraries, and playgrounds, creating environments that inspire education.
- Engage in the local culture, and contribute to the lively Puerto Escondido community.
- Creating a lasting impact on the students, animals, and the local community.
Food & Accommodation
You will stay in single gender rooms in a typical hostel setting in Puerto Escondido, with 1-8 people per room. Our local hostel host is enthusiastic about facilitating family-style interactions and cultural exchanges.
You will have a hot shower, fans, western toilet. Wi-Fi is not included by you may find this in nearby restaurants, etc. Laundry can be done by hand or at an extra fee.
You’ll stay in one of two hostels in the downtown area, conveniently located near the heart of Puerto Escondido, a charming beach town known for its friendly local community. While it has gained popularity over the years, it has retained its untouched, rustic charm and is part of one of the more affordable and underrated states in Mexico. Oaxaca is renowned for its exquisite beaches and capital city, making it a favoured destination for eco-tourist backpackers seeking an authentic Mexican experience away from the modern world’s influence.
In Puerto Escondido, there are plenty of beach-related activities to enjoy, with surfing being a major draw that attracts tourists from all over the world during the surf season.
You will get 3 meals a day on weekdays, and 2 on weekends. The food will be traditional Mexican, with plenty of corn tortillas, beans, rice, chili peppers, potatoes, wheat and other grains, and chicken, all of which are vegetarian-friendly. Keep in mind that some local dishes may be spicy!
All meals will be provided at the mentioned accommodation. Every day of the program, three full meals will be provided, beginning with breakfast at 8am, lunch at 12pm, and dinner at 6 p.m. On weekends, there are two meals available: brunch at 10 a.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. Food consists primarily of traditional local dishes prepared and served at the accommodation or in the surrounding area. Meals will be served based on your dietary requirements, but you must notify us in advance.
Mexico
Projects - Adventure
- Construction & Renovation
- Adventure Week
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1 Week - $680
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2 Weeks - $1160
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3 Weeks - $1740
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1 Month - $2320
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2 Months - $4640
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3 Months - $6960
What's Included
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Accommodation
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Meals
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Airport Pickup
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Local Transportation
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1 Day Orientation
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24/7 In-Country Support
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Project Materials & Equipment
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Pre-departure Expert Advice
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Preperation Tools & Checklists
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Certificate of Completion
- Application fee is one off per person (unlimited placements)
- Click Here to convert the below prices to your local currency
- Discounts may apply if travelling in a pair or group!
- All credit card /international fees included in below pricing! 🙂
FAQ
This program has a mix of tasks, so for those who love working in a team, and do not mind mucking in, this program will suit you 🙂
- Accommodation
- 3 meals p/day & 2 p/day at weekends
- Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
- Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
- 1 day orientation
- Daily transportation to project
- In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
- Fundraising support
- University course credits (where applicable)
- Certificate of Completion
- Airfares
- Travel Insurance
- Tours, Souvenirs & spending money
Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees.
A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM) on Sunday from 8am to 5pm.
If you arrive outside the pickup times, you can book a private transfer for an extra fee.
If you want to book any extra nights before or after your program, you can do this for an extra fee.
Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).
From the airport to your accommodation it takes around 10 mins by taxi.
Monday
- After enjoying breakfast, you will receive a comprehensive introduction to the local team and the projects.
- You’ll become acquainted with the center, including an overview of the dos and don’ts, the Code of Conduct, the Child Protection Policy, and Media Consent guidelines.
- The morning will also feature an insightful presentation on the culture of Puerto Escondido and a basic lesson in Spanish, the local language.
- Following lunch, you will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant town of Puerto Escondido.
- Visit will allow you to arrange mobile phone connections, access currency exchange services, and utilize nearby ATM facilities for your convenience.
Tuesday to Friday
- Enjoy a hearty breakfast to energize for the day and depart to the project site.
- Engage in renovation and construction activities aligned with your role, such as working on school infrastructure, classroom, playgrounds, or assisting at animal shelter construction and renovation activities as directed by the coordinator.
- Savor a delicious lunch to recharge and relax.
- Continue with your dedicated efforts on the projects, making a positive impact on the community and animals.
**This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions & holidays and unforeseen circumstances.***
Explore the ancient ruins: Mexico is home to many ancient ruins, including the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and the Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan. These sites offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture.
Relax on the beaches: Mexico has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including the popular resort towns of Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta.
Experience the local cuisine: Mexican cuisine is world-renowned, and there’s no better place to experience it than in Mexico. From street tacos to fine dining, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Visit colonial cities: Mexico has many charming colonial cities, such as San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato, that offer a glimpse into the country’s Spanish colonial past.
Attend cultural festivals: Mexico has many vibrant cultural festivals throughout the year, such as Dia de los Muertos, which celebrate the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Explore natural wonders: Mexico has many natural wonders, such as the Copper Canyon and the Cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula, that are worth exploring.
Take a boat tour to see whales and dolphins: Mexico’s coastlines are home to a variety of marine life, including whales and dolphins. Take a boat tour to see these majestic creatures up close.
Go on a hot air balloon ride: See the stunning landscape of Mexico from a new perspective by taking a hot air balloon ride over the countryside. This is a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Mexico.
Explore the art scene: Mexico has a thriving art scene, with many museums and galleries showcasing both traditional and contemporary Mexican art. The Frida Kahlo Museum and the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City are must-sees for art lovers.
Visit the monarch butterfly sanctuaries: Every winter, millions of monarch butterflies migrate to Mexico’s forests to escape the colder climate up north. Visit the sanctuaries in Michoacán to witness this incredible natural phenomenon.
Go on a jungle adventure: Mexico is home to some of the most biodiverse jungles in the world, offering opportunities for hiking, zip-lining, and wildlife spotting. The jungles of Chiapas and the Yucatan Peninsula are particularly popular for outdoor activities.
- Work Gloves: Sturdy work gloves for safety and comfort during construction and renovation tasks.
- Safety Goggles: Protect your eyes from dust, debris, and potential hazards while working on projects.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun’s rays during outdoor activities.
- Comfortable Work Attire: Dress in comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for physical work, and consider bringing a change of clothes for after-work activities. (Please note that attire must adhere to local cultural norms, covering shoulders and legs when at school sites.)
- Closed-Toe Shoes: Durable, closed-toe footwear with good grip for safety and comfort on the work site.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day by carrying a refillable water bottle.
- Backpack or Bag: A small backpack or bag to carry personal items, essentials, and snacks.
- Notebook and Pen: Keep a journal to document your experiences and jot down important information or insights.
- Wet Wipes: Handy for quick clean-ups and refreshing during breaks.
- Hand Sanitizer and Mask: Essential for maintaining hygiene and adhering to safety protocols.
- Personal Medication & First Aid Kit: Bring any personal medications and a basic first aid kit to address minor health concerns.
- Personal Toiletries: Include personal hygiene items like soap and tissues for use during breaks and towel and swim wear when going to the beach in the evening for relaxation.
- Bug & Mosquito Repellent: Stay protected from insects during outdoor activities.
For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link: MX – Holidays – All Programs
Mexico is a fascinating country located in the southern part of North America. It has a rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and a vibrant and diverse population. Mexico is known for its iconic landmarks such as the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan, the beautiful beaches of Cancun, and the impressive Mayan and Aztec architecture found throughout the country.
Mexico’s culture is a unique blend of indigenous, European, and African influences, making it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in history, art, and culture. The country is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, including dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, and guacamole. Visitors can explore the vibrant cities, picturesque towns, and natural wonders that Mexico has to offer, from the bustling streets of Mexico City to the tranquil beaches of Tulum. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, Mexico is a destination that has something to offer for everyone.
Mexico has a diverse climate due to its large size and varied topography. The climate in Mexico ranges from tropical to desert, with the temperature and rainfall patterns varying depending on the region.
In general, Mexico’s climate is characterized by two seasons: a wet season and a dry season. The wet season typically runs from May to October and brings heavy rainfall, particularly in the southern and eastern regions of the country. The dry season runs from November to April and is characterized by sunny and dry weather, with cooler temperatures in the northern regions of the country.
The coastal areas of Mexico, particularly on the Pacific side, are known for their hot and humid climate, with temperatures averaging between 25-30°C (77-86°F) year-round. Inland areas are generally cooler, with the central highlands experiencing a temperate climate with cooler temperatures and occasional frosts during the winter months. The northern regions of Mexico, including the Baja California peninsula and the Sonoran Desert, have a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters.
The country’s culture is famous for its colourful art, music, and cuisine, as well as its vibrant traditions and festivals.
One of the most significant aspects of Mexican culture is its art. From the ancient Mayan and Aztec art to the contemporary works of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, Mexican art is renowned for its vibrant colours, bold designs, and powerful symbolism. Mexican music is also an essential part of the country’s cultural identity, with styles ranging from mariachi and ranchera to salsa and cumbia. The country’s rich cultural heritage is celebrated through its festivals and traditions, such as Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a holiday that honours deceased loved ones through colourful altars, food, and music.
30 Years Non Profit Experience
IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.
Affordable Volunteer Travel
We’re not motivated by shareholder profits. Our fees are fully transparent to ensure maximum benefit where it is most needed.
Safe & Responsible Projects
All projects include a dedicated 24/7 in-country management team, operational & risk assessment & overseas support contact. All projects are personally inspected to ensure very high quality.
Work Experience & University Credits
We place thousands of Uni students and can assist you with course credits and in-field experience points. Many of our project coordinators are qualified practitioners in their respective fields allowing unique in-field supervision and Uni accreditation options
Check out this amazing blog with step by step info on how to raise funds for your overseas volunteer experience to help maximize your impact abroad. Guide to Fundraising
Weekends & Extra Tours
