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Volunteering Projects in Panama
You can become involved in a variety of community aid projects in Panama. With such a range of interesting projects there's one to suit everyone!
You have the opportunity to contribute to orphanage, school, wildlife, and environmental projects, working with the elderly, or handicapped, literacy projects, jewellery making, and much more!
The Panama projects are based in the small mountain village of Boquete. It is a picturesque tropical rainforest tucked away on the eastern slopes of Volcan Baru.
The Projects
Childrens Program
As a volunteer you have the opportunity to help children in need and aid in developing and inspiring their minds and hearts. These children seek love, attention, knowledge and education to empower them to have successful futures, free from poverty and filled with opportunities. This program works to create growth and development opportunities for children and teenagers with a focus on children living in orphanages, and those who come from low income families. Volunteer opportunities may include: working in orphanages assisting with daily activities and childcare duties, helping with homework, running Saturday morning soccer & music classes. It is important to help in the way they need it. This could mean you will be helping with mentoring and playing with the kids, teaching in a classroom, working in the laundry, cooking meals, or feeding and bathing the children. As some of these projects are not full-time, volunteers must be able to join 2 to 3 projects to build a full-time schedule. This program is suitable for a positive, caring, motivated, and self-directed people who have a love for children.
Literacy Program
The ability to read, write and speak English are increasingly important for many Panamanians in the workforce or those planning to enter the workforce. Volunteers have the opportunity to work as English teachers with the community of Boquete with both adults and younger students. The classes are offered one-on-one or in small groups. This role is suitable for an organized, patient, and self-motivated individual. A teaching qualification is not required, but volunteers need to be confident teaching English and preferably have or are studying towards a university degree.
Community Outreach Programs
Our partner works with a number of small community based organizations which provide development services to enhance the local community. Volunteers have the opportunity to work with the disabled, animal & wildlife programs, medical and community recycling. As some of the projects are not full-time, volunteers may take part in a flexible schedule, which includes a combination of projects.
Disabled Centre for Children and Adults:
Volunteers with relevant qualifications and experience have the opportunity to work in the centre for the disabled giving physical or speech therapy to both children and adults, and act as a mentor. Volunteers without such qualifications are welcome to participate here in a range of other activities, including playing games, pushing someone in a wheelchair, reading a book, helping with handicrafts, or just being available to lend a helping hand where needed. Basic Spanish is useful, but many of the staff members speak both English & Spanish. Long-term volunteers are encouraged to apply. Unless volunteers are suitably qualified, this is a part time placement (meeting as a group once per week) and volunteers will need to participate in other projects to complete their volunteering schedule.
Animal and Wildlife Project:
Volunteers willeither work with an animal refuge and educational centre that saves and provides a home for unwanted, abused, and abandoned animals, and also provides a long-term home for macaw parrots. Volunteers are needed to assist in caring for the animals, maintaining the center, increasing awareness, and providing valuable information to guests of the center. Volunteers with veterinary background can also help in a spay and neuter clinic.
Recycle it:
This is the perfect placement for all you environmentalists! Volunteers will work with an organization which is dedicated to educate school children about the environment & organize community activities & events. Volunteers are needed to assist with the school-based program and also with the collecting, sorting and distribution of materials.
The GEM Project
The GEM Project iss a multifaceted international jewelry-making empowerment program that inspires positive thinking, global giving and creative power for positive individual and social change. The GEM Project is currently working with mothers with children with disabilities and young pregnant teens who are struggling to care for themselves and their babies. The ladies join together on a weekly basis. Volunteers at this project will work with various aspects, including: program development, training, incorporating new jewelry designs, marketing of jewelry, fundraising and program administration. Volunteers do not have to have experience making jewelry to participate in the project, but experience is greatly appreciated. This project is for dedicated, creative volunteers who are innovative and positive thinkers.
Entrepreneurship Development Project
Do you have a project or idea you would like to implement into the community of Panama? We want to hear your ideas!
The Entrepreneurship Project is designed for those who know what they are passionate about and have the desire and determination to move forward with their ideas. This project aims at giving you the connections needed to implement your ideas into serving the community. It is self driven, but UMMP is there to support you along the way.
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About Panama
Panama is bordered by the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, and met by Colombia and Costa Rica at each end of it's S shaped body.
The valley of Boquete is located in the western highlands of Panama at 1,200 meters above the sea level. Nestled amongst the country's most mountainous region, this peaceful town is situated between the Caldera River and Baru Volcano.
Boquete is safe, beautiful, inexpensive and exciting. It can be easily accessed by 1 hour daily flights from Panama City to David (the country's second largest city), and then a 30-40 minute car / 1 hour bus journey from here.
Development in Panama
Strong economic performance has reduced the national poverty level to 29% in 2008; however, Panama has the second most unequal income distribution in Latin America. Panama has extremes of wealth and poverty with the wealthiest 20 percent of Panamanians controlling more than 50 percent of the country's wealth, while the poorest 40 percent only control 12 percent.
Despite Panama's relatively high-income per capita (US$3,080 in 1997), poverty remains pervasive. Over one million people (37 percent of the population) live below the poverty line. Of these, over half a million (19 percent) live in extreme poverty. One-half of all Panamanian children are poor.
Volunteer Impact
Volunteers provide assistance to disadvantaged socio-economic groups within Panamanian communities, focusing primarily on orphaned children, animals, environmental projects and school children.
As a volunteer in Panama you can provide love, affection, education and support to orphaned children. You will help to improve education in schools ensuring children learn and flourish. Depending on your interests you can also contribute to recycling projects, working with the elderly, or handicapped and jewellery making. You will also provide education, inter-cultural exchange and understanding in Panamanian communities.
What else can I do in Panama?
Free from large crowds of tourists, visitors to Panama will enjoy discovering this beautiful country.
Panama has no shortage of stunning beaches, mountains and rain forests to explore, along with it's smattering of colonial towns home to exquisite handicrafts and the country's friendliest people.
Those looking to get further out and explore will enjoy trekking in the Parque Nacional Volcán Barú, home to Panama's only volcano.
Spanish Lessons
All volunteers will have the option of adding Spanish classes to enhance their volunteer experience for an additional fee with our partner school.
Also, Global Volunteer Network has established a partnership with the Spanish school Instituto Exclusivo, which offers GVN volunteers a 5% discount off their online Spanish lessons. This is not like other courses which give you pages of web material or recordings of various phrases to repeat. You will speak to, and see your instructor as he/she is giving you a private lesson, tailored to your level of Spanish. Learn spanish before you go
Costs
Application Fee – US $97
Your application fee is fully transferable and will secure your place on the Panama program, (or any other GVN program of your choice), at a placement date that is suitable to you.*
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*Your application fee provides you with access to any of GVN's volunteer programs over the next 5 years, as many times as you like without having to pay another application fee! |
Children under 18 are not required to pay the application fee when volunteering together with a parent/guardian. (Except for participants in our Youth Tour program who are required to pay a US$97 application fee.)
Program Fee – from US $45 a day*
- 1 week: US $1547
- 2 weeks: US $1747
- 3 weeks: US $1947
- 4 weeks: US $2147
- 5 weeks: US $2247
- 6 weeks: US $2347
- 7 weeks: US $2447
- 8 weeks: US $2497
*Placements longer than 8 weeks are available, please contact us or apply online for details.
*Based on an 8 week placement
What’s included:
| Accommodation: | Volunteer House (Home stays & several other lodging options can be arranged for an additional fee.) |
| Meals: | Breakfast daily. |
| Project Donation: | Included to empower local organizations. |
| Airport pickup: | On arrival date. |
| Training: | In-country Orientation & training covering placement logistics & also a very personal exploration into your life goals & aspirations. |
| Supervision: | In-country staff supervision. |
| Support: | Pre-departure personal support from your volunteer coordinator, 24/7 in-country support from partner, and 24hr emergency line. |
| Extra: | Spanish Crash Course, Weekly Volunteer Dinners & Outings, Free reliable Wi-Fi Internet at Volunteer House with access to volunteer computer, Weekly Volunteer Reflections, Certificate of Completion & Reference Letter upon request. |
Additional Benefits:
- A Quality Volunteer Placement
Dedicated staff with the sole focus of facilitating the placement of volunteers, reviewing and improving programs and supporting the work of our partners. -
Program Guide
Your online resource guide that covers topics such as country information, details on your placement, travel links, visa application process, and much more! - Fundraising guide
Your Fundraising Guide and Software which provides you with proven fundraising strategies, letter generating software and other resources to help you raise up to 100% of the cost of your trip. - Personal online journal
Which help you to communicate effectively and easily with your family and friends back home. - Access to a non-profit:
Contribute to the ongoing support of the charitable + educational work of community organisations.
What’s not included:
Flights, insurance, visas, vaccinations, project transportation, departure from the program.
We recommend you allow a weekly budget of US $35 for your other expenses such as bottled water, personal items, beverages, transportation and entertainment.
Schedule
Program Schedule
Start Date: 1st Monday or 3rd Monday of every month
Volunteers are encouraged to arrive on the Friday before their placement to have the weekend to explore the area and gain comfort with the culture.
Length: 1 week to 24 weeks. Your stay can be extended beyond twelve weeks on a case-by-case basis (depending upon visa and our partner's requirements).
Please note:
Schools are closed during the summer months, January to March each year. During this time school programs will be closed.
FAQ
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions which we receive at the GVN inbox. This is a great place to start if you have questions about Global Volunteer Network and our placement process. This information should answer the majority of questions you may have.
Tell me more about Boquete, Panama?
What is the climate like in Boquete, Panama?
Boquete enjoys a sunny, cool mountain climate, with temperatures ranging between 60° - 80°F (16° - 28°C).
Where will I be located?
The projects will be predominantly located in Boquete and surrounding areas. However some volunteers will be based in David
What kind of volunteer work is available?
Do I have to be from New Zealand?
What age do I have to be to volunteer?
You must be at least 18 years of age. There is no upper limit, you just have to be in good health.
Do I need to speak English to volunteer?
Many of the programs are run in both English and Spanish. If you are a native English speaker and have no Spanish speaking skills, we do recommend that you learn a basic level of Spanish before you start volunteering, as this will enhance your overall experience. The staff at our partner organization speaks English, but the locals at your specific project may have very limited English. All volunteers participate in a Spanish language crash course included with orientation. Volunteers will have access to our partnering language school for additional lessons during their stay for an additional fee.
When do I need to arrive in Panama?
Volunteers are encouraged to arrive on the Friday before the 1st or 3rd Monday of each month, this will give you time to settle in and explore the area before starting your placement on Monday. Please note airport pick-ups cannot be arranged for those arriving on a Sunday. Volunteers will need to cover the costs of additional accommodation. Special arrangements can be made to start anytime throughout the month if needed.
Is the program available year round?
Most projects are closed during special holidays such as Easter Week, Christmas and Carnival. Some of the teaching projects are not available during the summer months of January-March; however there are alternate placements available during this time.
When will I know specific details on the placement?
How safe is it to volunteer in Panama?
Tell me more about flying into Panama?
May I choose which project to volunteer in?
Our partner works with many organizations and we work diligently to place our volunteers with the project most suited to the volunteer's knowledge, skills and talents.
May I volunteer in a combination of projects?
How do I get to the project?
Many of the projects are within walking distance from the volunteer house, however for those further away, you will be able catch a bus or taxi to your project each day. The cost for the bus is around US $.50 - $2 each day, or for a private or a shared taxi the cost is around US $.50 - $3 per day.
What immunizations/vaccinations will I need?
This is a suggestion of what may be needed - please consult with your medical professional or travel specialist for more details.
- Hepatitis A & B
- Polio
- Typhoid
- Yellow Fever
- Diphtheria and tetanus
- Rabies
- Meningococcal (meningitis)
- Cholera
- Malaria (see notes below)
- Tuberculosis
Malaria is not needed for Boquete or David. Discuss closely with your doctor if you plan to travel through the rest of Panama.
Some of these can be taken in oral form so please discuss with your doctor to see what is best for you. Some people can be affected quite differently to others by medication.
What are the living arrangements when volunteering?
The majority of volunteers will live in either shared gender dorm rooms in a volunteer house, or more traditional home stays are available in certain areas. The volunteer house is equipped with basic western style amenities. There is a male and female dorm and one private room in the volunteer house. The home stay accommodation is more rustic than for those in Boquete. The Boquete Volunteer House can accommodate up to 13 volunteers. There is a male and female dorm and one private room.
A homestay offers volunteers an amazing opportunity to practice Spanish in a natural, relaxed and authentic atmosphere as well as being in a unique and privileged position to get immersed in the Latin American culture, cuisine, customs and daily way of life.
Can I bring my family/children to this program with me?
Can you accommodate specific dietary requirements?
How does GVN choose volunteers for this program?
Each GVN program has different criteria depending on our partner's requirements. Every application is reviewed to ensure that the minimum requirements (as set out on the program page) are met. Next we look to see what skills or experience you have that relate specifically to the program. We are also interested in any previous volunteer experience you may have (either local or international), travel experience, and your particular interest in the program.
After reviewing your application, should we require any further information from you, we will email you to request this.
What hours am I expected to take part in the program?
What resources will be available?
Each project will provide you with the resources you need. However, for the teaching and childcare projects we encourage our volunteers to bring additional resources such as: teaching resources, craft materials, sports equipment, toys or games to assist you. Our partner organization also has a selection of resources including games, books, pens and paper etc.
Can groups participate in this program?
Are there holidays or festival I should be aware of when traveling?
There are many festivals in Panama however this will not hinder your volunteering as when they are on you will most likely be invited to celebrate with everyone. During Christmas & Carnaval many organizations are closed for more extended periods of time.
Is there opportunity to take classes such as language or cultural activities while on the program?
Are we able to do any sightseeing while volunteering?
Yes. Volunteers have their weekends free for traveling and we recommend you take advantage of being in Panama to see places of interest. Our partner organization is able to assist you in booking tours of Boquete, Bocas Del Toro Archipelago, Panama City, and the Panama Canal.
What clothing is appropriate for the program?
Generally speaking, what you wear at home, you can wear in Panama. With that being said, as many variations of style differ, volunteers should dress appropriately at all times, according to the customs in Panama. Volunteers need warmer clothing for the nights (light long-sleeved shirts and sweaters, pants/jeans), and light/loose clothing for the day (t-shirts, shorts).
Are there more expenses once I arrive?
The program costs cover accommodation, airport pick-up and breakfast daily. If you plan on arriving early or staying on, then you will need to have spare money for this time. You may also require extra money for your days off depending on what you intend on doing. Other costs include food, bottled water (if you desire), visa (only required if staying longer than 90 days), travel, and any shopping you will do personally. Volunteers need to pay for the bus to their project each day - approximately US $.50 - $2 per day. All visitors to Panama are required to pay approximately US $5 for a tourist card at their departure airport; your airline will provide these prior to your flight to Panama.
What happens if I get sick or have an accident while I’m in Panama?
How many volunteers are there on site at the same time?
Can you tell me more about your partner in Panama?
What is the course content of the training?
Orientation takes place on the first or Third Monday of the month. Volunteers are given a general introduction to the language, projects, and a cultural orientation.
Who organizes my visa for my volunteer placement?
Do I need travel insurance?
All GVN Volunteers must have insurance. You are free to take out insurance cover through any provider of your choice. However, as some policies do not cover volunteering, we recommend you check you are covered during your volunteer placement.
For your convenience we have arranged a comprehensive package specially designed for volunteering. It includes excellent medical and accident coverage as well as “loss of deposits” cover which covers fees paid to GVN, airlines etc. If you would like to learn more just follow this link: http://www.globalvolunteernetwork.org/insurance/
How do I pay my fees?
Your application fee secures your place on the program (remember this is fully transferable to a later date or different program if you decide not to take part in the program, subject to the terms of service). Your program fee is payable to Global Volunteer Network 12 weeks prior to the 1st of the month you wish to volunteer. Please note that all charges incurred by the payment of the program fee are at the volunteer’s expense, e.g. if a bank transfer incurs a bank fee at the point of origin, that is at the expense of the volunteer. Eighty percent (80%) of your program fee is refundable until one calendar month before the 1st of the month you are due to begin your program. Refer to GVN's legal terms of service for full details.
Will I need a police check?
As volunteering in Panama involves working closely with children and other vulnerable individuals, volunteers need to provide a police clearance document before volunteering commences. There are different types of police clearance but at minimum the check must include your full name and date of birth. Note, minor offences such as traffic infringements will not be taken into account. If you come from a country that does not issue police clearances for volunteer work, three character references from reputable sources (employer, justice of the peace, landlord, the minister of your local church, teacher, etc) may be substituted. Your character referees should know you well enough to vouch for your character.
Tell me more about David, Panama?
David is situated on gently rolling plains about half way between the Pacific Ocean to the south and the Cordillera Talamanca Highlands to the North. On the ocean, a short drive away, you will find the city of Puerto Armuelles and the beaches of Lar Barqueta, Las Lajas and Playa Hermosa. David is the second most populous city in Panama. In David you can encounter several museums and cinemas where you can go to the movies, shopping malls and plenty of more dance clubs, bars, and restaurants. It is the capital of the Chiriqui Province and the center of a rich farming region. The city’s heart is its fine central plaza, the Parque de Cervantes and is located 1.5km southwest of the highway.
David is located 38 kilometers (23 miles) away from Boquete. You can arrive in car between 30-40 minutes and by bus in one hour. It is also the halfway point between Panama City and San Jose, Costa Rica.
What is the climate like in David, Panama?
For those seeking warmer weather, David, which is close to sea level, is the place for you! David is hot year round with less rainfall than Boquete, with average temperatures usually between 78F and 82F (25C – 28C).
Volunteer Diaries
day 3 Panama
Sunday, June 19th, 2011
A great little trip yesterday to discover the area, Kaytee and Oscar took us to a gorge in the middle of a rain forest just outside Boquette. It was truly magical, I have seen a lot of falls and swimming holes but nothing quit like this. The hike down was about half a mile through [click here to read more]
Panama Volunteer
Saturday, June 18th, 2011
We awoke to sounds unknown to my ears except the fact I knew they were birds. Birds I had never heard before. I am 62 years old, I am here in Botique, Panama with my 17 year old son KC. I came here for one major reason, I am losing my son to drugs. I [click here to read more]
Christmas!
Wednesday, December 29th, 2010
Day 7 ? Christmas Eve We got up early and headed over the house Kaytee and Oscar are currently house sitting for a birthday breakfast… champagne, orange juice, American blueberry pancakes with syrup, bacon and fried tomatoes, mmmmmmmm :) The house was really beautiful and had an amazing view from the balcony of a stream and [click here to read more]
Please visit journals.globalvolunteernetwork.org for more journals and feedback from past volunteers
How to Apply
Program Requirements
As a volunteer in Panama you must:
- be 18 years or older
- be physically fit
- a basic level of Spanish required for certain projects
The Application Process
Your application process is free and seamless, and if you are successful we will provide you with a choice of application fee payment options that include a secure online service. We also are one of the few organisations that allow you to transfer your application fee to another program at no extra cost.
Communication & Support:
Throughout the process, we are committed to working with you to answer any of your questions or concerns. During your placement we are also available as a form of support to you as a volunteer and will email you while in country to discuss how the program is going.
Volunteer Feedback
In the short week I was there, I fell in love with Boquete, the kids, and I enjoyed all the volunteers I met, and of course Kaytee & Oscar. I've never felt more inspired and encouraged in my life. I am already planning my trip back for Spring Break, I can not wait! Katyee and Oscar make you feel so special, welcomed, and a part of their family. It's truly amazing! - Kelsey
The 4 weeks I spent in Boquete were life changing. The experience was more incredible then I could have ever imagined. I left a part of my heart in Boquete. I have been home less then two weeks and I am already planning my trip back. What Kaytee & Oscar have established [...] is inspirational! - Lauren
Such a great organization!!! This was the best volunteer experience of my life. GVN's partner organisation is doing such great things for the community. I think that everyone should be given the same opportunity that I had because it was life-changing. Keep up the good work! - Meg
Articles
News From Panama
Application Form
Why Volunteer
At GVN we align with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', so we work with local community organisations in each country. What this means for our volunteers is that they receive a unique and genuine cultural experience whilst being immersed in a local community.
If you're
- Graduating from school and not sure which direction to take, or you're not ready to jump into full-time employment just yet;
- Ready for a Career Break;
- An 'empty nester';
- Retired;
- Or ready for a change or new adventure
Volunteering abroad could be the very thing for YOU!
If you're looking for something worthwhile to do volunteering will give you the opportunity to travel whilst making a difference in the community you are based in.
Did you know taking a Gap Year can improve your college admission chances and success rate during your studies?
"Harvard College encourages admitted students to defer enrolment for one year to travel, pursue a special project or activity, work, or spend time in another meaningful way" – Harvard College Office of Admissions, 2010.
International volunteering is a great way to gain experience living in a developing country, learning about another culture and experiencing a different way of life. It is a fantastic way to grow as a person, to develop life skills, self-confidence and self-esteem, and is a tool for self discovery and identity formation.
Other personal benefits include, developing international friendships and networks, social awareness, and building independence.
Volunteering can increase your employability, help you to gain valuable work experience and enhance your CV/resume.
"Going to a foreign country for a volunteer experience is a huge boost on a resume. Employers love to see a person that can think outside the box and work past their comfort zone. The added benefits of teamwork, foreign language knowledge, and plain old hard work also add polish to the volunteer candidate. Since business now happens on a global scale, the volunteer is armed with useful, and potentially actionable, information." – USA Today, 2010.
Reputable Charity
The Global Volunteer Network (GVN) is a New Zealand Charitable Trust (non-profit NGO) based in Wellington, New Zealand. Our Charitable incorporation number is: CC46460. GVN has been verified and approved by Idealist (the largest volunteer portal on the internet. GVN is also a member of the World Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (WANGO), and our ‘sister’ organization the GVN Foundation has been granted special consultative status on the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Prestigious web sites such as Lonely Planet and Goabroad.com have placed web links to us. Additionally, when you apply, we can provide you with contact information for previous volunteers if you wish. GVN is also an approved member of the Site Trust Network and you can view our verification page.
Recommended by Bill Gates
Bill Gates personally recommended GVN by stating "I'd love to see more young people taking action to help the poor and disadvantaged. Two places to get started are Network for Good and Global Volunteer Network." Newsweek Web
Proven Track Record
To give you peace of mind, GVN has over eight years experience and has placed 13,500+ volunteers since 2002. Read volunteer's journals and testimonials or speak to a returned volunteer directly about their experience abroad through GVN.
Volunteer Support
GVN’s specialist staff provide personal support to volunteers, assisting not only with preparation for your placement, but whilst in-country, and follow-up on return home. GVN provides comprehensive Program Guides, project resources (eg teaching resources).
Community Focussed
GVN aligns with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', therefore we work with local community organisations in each country. We believe that local communities are in the best position to determine their needs, and we provide volunteers to help them achieve their goals.
Recommended by CNN
CNN listed the Global Volunteer Network as one of 10 organizations that can help you to make a positive impact on the world around you. CNN encourages you to visit our website to get more details on how you too can Be The Change.
Personal Security
GVN offer an insurance package tailored specifically for volunteers. Partner’s staff are always available (24hr/7days), along with this GVN also has a 24hr/7day emergency hotline.
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Peru. 
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