In
1994 we at first hand moved to Costa Rica and everything started when my son went
to a little elementary school near Sámara: 11 children, 6 degrees,
one classroom and one teacher. We started bringing volunteers to this
little school and 'poco a poco' other schools addressed us with
interest of having volunteers and families offered themselves for
having volunteers in their house.
Since
then a lot has changed and developed at first hand – we started many new teaching
programs and conservation projects all over the country – but one
thing is still the same: we have a very personal and very close
contact to all of our schools, guestfamilies and projects. We live in
Costa Rica and we will be there when you need us!
First hand offers volunteer opportunities in schools, kindergarten, music
schools, turtle camps, animal reserves, macaw stations, farms and in
the rainforest.
We, the agency for volunteer work first hand, are in direct contact with schools and environmental conservation projects planning, organizing and joining our volunteers during this unforgettable and worthy experience!
We have 20 years experience of living in Costa Rica and feel commited to the people, comunitary help and sustainable ecological development. Through the 'Asociación Intercambio Cultural ALEGRIA - AICA', a non-profit organization, we have been promoting intercultural exchange in all areas of artistic expression and organizing festivals and benefit events.
First hand offers projects almost everywhere in Costa Rica. San Jose, Islita, Buena Vista, Manzanillo, Drake Bay, Mata Palo...just to name a few!
Our Vision
first
hand wants to contribute to a sustainable development and mutual
respect by intercultural exchange and learning from each other.
Why volunteering with first hand?
Your
contribution makes the difference in educating children, preserving
marine turtles or other animals and protecting the rainforests of
Costa Rica. You live and work with locals and you get to learn the
real life of Costaricans. Every day you deal directly with opinions,
lifestyles and routines of a different culture. These new found
knowledges teach you more about yourself! You learn or improve your
spanish skills. Language is the key to understanding the values of a
different culture. Work experiences in foreign countries are
indispensable in times of globalization. A volunteer based commitment
will open many doors for you.
About Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a little tropical paradise between two oceans. Hardly any other country has such an abundance of plants and animals on such a small terrain. 25% of it's area is protected by national parks. Active volcanos, hot springs, rain and cloud forests, mountain rivers, spectacular waterfalls, subterranean caves, coral reefs, mangroves, amazing caribbean and pacific beaches and a fascinating animal world invite you to discover and enjoy.
Costa Rica has the oldest democracy in Latin America, a working social system, responsable environmental laws and is the only country in the world that has no army. The relaxed 'pura vida' lifestyle of the 'ticos' and their hospitality towards visitors make it one of the safest top destinations in Latin America.
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