We are looking for motivated, enthusiastic and adventurous interns to join us in the Amazon jungle and help support the growth of this budding social enterprise. Interns with Fundación Runa will have the chance to take on ground-breaking research in a range of areas which are essential for the growth and development of Guayusa and the communities Runa works with. Interns will work alongside our experienced technicians and engineers in the field, and also have the chance to participate in cultural exchange events and guayusa ceremonies.
Description
Interns and researchers on our community development team will work with Runa Foundation to facilitate the development of the farmers association. Over the past year, Fundación Runa has been facilitating this development; holding training workshops, managing administration and coordinating with Fair Trade USA. The farmer's association is in charge of managing the Social Premium Fund under the requisites of Fair Trade USA. This is a unique opportunity to get first hand experience working with a new farmer's association and cooperative.
Project Objectives
To facilitate the development of a farmer's association or cooperative for guayusa
To train the association's members in essential skills such as administration and finance.
To facilitate the creation of work and business plans with the association regarding the management of the Social Premium Fund
Qualifications
This internship is geared towards industry professionals and graduate students majoring in international development, affairs, business or a related field. Proficiency in English and Spanish is essential. Experience in Latin America and/or working in a rural setting is a plus.
Intern Duties
Coordinate administration for the association
Attend all meetings and training sessions and take minutes
Help to manage finances for the Social Premium Fund
Accompany members of the association on trips to other cooperatives in Ecuador
Facilitate training sessions in areas of expertise
Assist in the implementation of community development projects
Winter Internship:
January 7th - March 1st 2013
Spring Internship:
April 1st- May 24th 2013
Summer Internship:
June 17th - August 23rd 2013
Costs:
8 weeks room and program fees………..$1600
10 weeks room and program fees............$2000
Additional weeks……………………….....$200/week
These costs cover room and program fees in Tena, Ecuador. Food and travel are not included. Runa has a limited amount of scholarship funds available to go towards these costs if applicants have exhausted other funding opportunities.
For more information: www.fundacionruna.org
http://www.fundacionruna.org/community-development-internship.html
