The barrios of Lima, Peru’s capital city, are a difficult place to grow up, especially when you have to walk long distances to get to school. DWC works with Peruvian partner IFEJANT to build schools that will help children improve their futures. To do this, we need people like you to volunteer in Peru.
About The Trip:
The poverty rate in Peru is at about 30% and more than 55% in rural areas. Poverty in Peru has roots in high rates of illiteracy, lack of essential services and training. Many children leave school early to help support their families. About one quarter to one third of Peruvian children ages 6 to 14 work.
Education is one of the most important things that a child can have. DWC’s in-country partner, IFEJANT, recognizes this and strives to improve education opportunities along with human rights in and around Lima. IFEJANT is a non-profit organization that serves as a leader and supporter of an organized network of grassroots organizations serving women and working children.
DWC and IFEJANT have had a long relationship working together to build better options for the children of the barrios. Teams of volunteers in Peru have done what you’ll be doing on this trip: hauling concrete, building walls or other parts of schools and meeting the children who study in the school.
Read day-to-day experiences from our volunteers on the Peru Blog »
It’s Not All Work:
Temperatures will vary with averages around 18C, decreasing as you ascend into the mountains. Lighter, breathable clothing is appropriate but prepare for showers, fog and overcast skies during the day with some lightweight rain gear. Packing warmer clothes for chilly nights is suggested. Because Peru has climates that range from jungle/rainforest to arid drylands, weather conditions can change dramatically when you travel throughout the country. And since weather can be unpredictable, it’s best to be prepared for a bit of everything, especially if you plan side trips to the mountains or jungle.
Outside of your work volunteer work, you’ll probably want to get out to Machu Picchu, an attraction that’s pretty much a must-do for any travellers to Peru. Lima itself is full of historic buildings, churches, museums and sites and, for those in search of the sun rays that escape the cloud cover, an oceanside beach. Top-notch restaurants, parasailing and a litany of other activities and options are waiting for you.
Learn more about the Peru »
The Project:
As a volunteer in Peru, you’ll be serving the working children by building educational and community facilities. This can mean anything from digging foundations to mixing cement to installing windows and doors, painting, etc. IFEJANT chooses the projects depending on the most current need of the community. It could be finishing up a second storey of a school or building a community centre/meeting space. Whatever you do will be meaningful and needed.
When / Itinerary:
- Saturday, October 24 to Sunday, October 25 – Arrive in Lima and check in to hotel.
- Monday, October 26 to Friday, October 30 – PROJECT WORK in Lima
- Saturday, October 31 to Sunday, November 1 – Free days for some R and R
- Monday, November 2 to Friday, November 6 – PROJECT WORK in Lima
- Saturday, November 7: Transport to airport in Lima and fly home
FAQs:
DWC Team Leader:
Terry-Lynn Stone
Terry-Lynn lives by the motto, “You cannot change the world—but you can help change someone’s world.” Whether it is volunteering with her local Rotary Club, traveling with DWC, or following her passion making and delivering menstrual kits to girls so they can go to school, Terry-Lynn delights in helping others. Any trip with DWC and Terry-Lynn will be one part work, one part passion and a huge helping of humour and fun!
Find out how to become a team leader with Developing World Connections
Are You Ready To Go?
Got questions? Email us at info@developingworldconnections.org.
Ready to apply? Fill out our online application. You can secure your place on this trip with a $500, non-refundable deposit that goes toward your total trip cost. After you’ve submitted your forms and deposit, our office will contact you and send you a welcome package.
We’re glad to have you join us.
Still have some questions? We’re here to help, please feel free to contact us now, or fill out the form.