Did you know Costa Rica was the first country in the world to constitutionally abolish its army? With many opportunities for volunteering , helping local NGOs, care centers for elderly, schools, or even working in a zoo, you could bring your help to people in need, while discovering this incredible country of Central America. Costa Rica, Spanish for "Rich Coast" is seen as an example of political stability in the region.
As a long-term United Planet volunteer in Costa Rica, you will provide vital support to communities in need, immerse and learn about diverse cultures, and explore fascinating areas of the country visited.
Long-term volunteers have an exciting opportunity to gain an even deeper understanding and appreciation of a foreign land and culture through humanitarian service, language and intercultural training, cultural learning activities, and exploration. By working closely with the local people, you will make a positive difference in a range of areas, such as orphan care, education, healthcare, environmental conservation, housing for the poor, and so much more. You will gain as much as you give through a new understanding, new friendships, and a heightened love for your world.
United Planet is the proud US and Canadian partner within the International Cultural Youth Exchange (ICYE) Federation, the oldest long-term volunteering federation in the world. With over 50 years of experience, the ICYE Federation has a proven track record and upholds the highest standards for excellence in serving both the volunteers and the communities involved.
Long-term Quests are available for 6 months and 1 year. Volunteers take part in intensive orientations, mid-year, and final year camps with other volunteer exchangees from all over the world. You do not need any specific skills or language abilities to take part. You will attain new skills, competencies, and broadened global perspectives through your involvement in the long-term quest program!
There are many interesting destinations both in developed and developing countries. You can support children and the disabled in communties throughout France and Italy. You can assist in agricultural, environmental, and community projects in New Zealand, Nepal, and India. You can help with AIDS/HIV programs in Uganda, Russia, Nigeria, and more. You can assist in human rights issues in Brazil, Bolivia, Mozambique, and Lithuania.
United Planet and the ICYE Federation, as non-profit organizations, are committed to the accessibility of these programs for all. For less than the cost of living independently in many of our program countries, you can participate in a fully supported and well-structured international voluntary exchange program with years of experience. We hope that you will recognize and take advantage of this special opportunity.
Imagine yourself as a United Planet Volunteer!
The men and women who join United Planet long-term Quests come from all walks of life and reflect a diverse range of personal, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. UP Volunteers share a deep concern for our world, a true desire to make a difference, and a passion for cultural discovery and exploration.
United Planet Long-term Volunteers do not need:
• Specialized knowledge or work experience
• Existing foreign language skills
• Experience of international travel
(You attain all this and more on your Long-term Quest!)
What is covered in the long-term Quest?
• Food & Lodging in your host country (Host Family or Residential Live-in at Project)
• Local Transportation to the Volunteer Site
• Health, Accident, and Third Party Liability Insurance
• Preparation before departure/ Evaluation on return
• In-country Orientation, Language Course, Mid-year Camp, and Final Evaluation
• Intensive Support and Supervision during your year
• Monthly Stipend for incidental expenses
What is the tax-deductible program fee?
12 months abroad $7.895
6 monts abroad $4,965
Please do not hesitate to contact us with further questions at
quest@unitedplanet.org, 1-800-292-2316, or 1-617-267-7763.
