VENUSA offers many diverse volunteer projects to choose from in and around Merida, Venezuela.  Whether you want to assist in a local hospital or clinic, help orphans, teach English, take care of animals at the local zoo, or assist the elderly, you are sure to have an amazing, fulfilling and memorable experience in Venezuela.   
While on the program you will live with a Venezuelan host family.  Sharing your daily life with them will provide you with experience and insight into the culture, something you cannot do as a tourist. Soon you will become immersed in “La vida chevere”. 

Eligibility:
Volunteer must be at least 18 years old  
Flexible, open-minded, in good health and have a desire to contribute, learn & share experiences

Location:
Volunteer positions and/or Spanish classes are in Merida, Venezuela.

Length of program:
Most programs run from 2–30 weeks, though longer programs may be available.  Positions are also available over spring break and winter holidays.

Start dates:
Year-round

Accommodations:
During your Volunteer project and/or Spanish lessons, you will live with a Venezuelan family. You will be provided with airport pick-up, 3 daily meals, private room, and an invaluable insight into the culture. 

Visa Documentation:
Tourist visas are valid for up to 3 months.  If you are interested in a longer program, we can assist you in applying for a student visa.  We recommend that you check up to date visa information with the Venezuelan Consulate of your jurisdiction.     

Language Classes:
Optional language classes are available in Merida.  Language classes are a great way to be introduced to a new country & culture, meet new friends, and improve your Spanish skills.  20 hours per week (4 hours/day) of private language instruction.  Classes, homestay, all meals, and cultural activities are provided (cost shown below).      

Volunteer Projects:
VENUSA offers placement in diverse volunteer projects throughout Merida.  Below are brief samples of the kinds of projects and locations offered.

Working with Children
Working with at-risk children in an orphanage.

Teachers’ Assistants
Teaching English to primary school, high school, college students and adults.

Health Projects
Take care of patients, make beds, check blood pressure, distribute food and medicine, weigh babies, and help with other first aid procedures.

Ecological Projects
Volunteering at an ecological project and contribution to the environment through cleanup, development of eco-tourism, and environmental education.

Working with Animals
Work in a zoo helping with daily tasks such as preparing food, feeding animals, cleaning cages, and much more.

Organic Farm
Help with the day to day workings of the farm, planting, weeding, harvesting, and possibly serve as a guide to tourists learning about their methods.

Museum and Artistic Opportunities
Prepare art exhibitions,help with fundraising, archiving, and teach children.

Elderly Care Center
Lead residents at an elderly care center in various activities, help them cook, distribute food, teach English, and help them garden.

Medical / Health     
Law Enforcement
Anti-Drug Coalition
Church  
Botanical Gardens
Tourism / Hotel
Women’s Center
Chemical Dependency
Fire Department
Governmental
Business                  

Important Note:  VENUSA’s volunteer placements are taken very seriously and the relationships and trust with our volunteer partners have taken years to develop.  VENUSA will only award placements to applicants that are dedicated to their cause and committed to the position.  Specific details, such as exact work hours and the type of work, can only be determined by expertise, skills, attitude, and Spanish fluency.  In addition, some programs have special requirements that are needed prior to being accepted.

Summary of Volunteer program inclusions:

 University Study Abroad students on semester or summer programs:

Non-Study Abroad Student / Volunteer Program & Housing Fee

Summary of Private Language Classes:

Additional Spanish instruction and group are rates available upon request.

Click here to view the VOLUNTEER FORM