When I was looking for a volunteer project in Latin America, I wanted to go with a grassroots organization instead of a larger and more institutionalized one. Deciding to concentrate on small organizations meant that it might be harder to find information about them and to find feedback from prior volunteers. This blog entry describes a small organization that deserves your attention if you found this entry by searching for something like "latin america volunteer."
The organization is called Asociación MAPU and most of its activities take place in or near Esquel, Argentina, in the province of Chubut, in northern Patagonia. It offers various volunteer projects on its Patagonia Volunteer Web site.
I found little independent information on the Web about MAPU, other than that it had won a UN award for virtual volunteering. So although I found no reports from prior volunteers, I decided to go for it. And I have no regrets.
MAPU is a lean organization and the fees you pay (see below) go a long way. The staff earn their salaries elsewhere and are also volunteering their time to MAPU projects.
Not only does MAPU dedicate its energies to its volunteer projects, but it also takes care of its volunteers. MAPU organizes a language intercambio, where you meet someone from the community who wants to practice your mother tongue while you practice your Spanish. You are encouraged to get involved in community life, and some community events are organized by MAPU.
What does it cost? Unlike some volunteer organizations that can charge thousands of US dollars, MAPU is lean. It currently charges EUR 50 to become an association member, and an additional EUR 200 for general administrative costs for your volunteer placement. I stayed with a host family in Esquel, which cost 450 pesos (around EUR 100) per month. Meals were not included in my homestay, but that option is available for an additional 150 pesos (around EUR 40) per month.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time living and volunteering in Esquel. If you're interested in volunteering in Patagonia then I can strongly recommend MAPU as a way to help you realize your wish.
