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El Puente Roto (Broken Bridge) in Cuenca, Ecuador


Volunteering in Cuenca

By Betsy Burlingame

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Summary: A great way to meet others in Cuenca is by volunteering. Here are several organizations where you may be interested in helping out.

Moving to a new country can be an exciting yet challenging experience. Volunteering is an excellent way for expats to integrate into the local community, practice the language, and make meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. Cuenca, offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities that cater to various interests and skills. By dedicating your time and effort to a cause, you'll not only make a positive impact but also enrich your experience abroad.

Hearts of Gold

Hearts of Gold is dedicated to improving the lives of underserved communities in Ecuador through education, healthcare, and community development. Volunteers can participate in various programs, such as teaching English, assisting in health clinics, or supporting community projects. To get involved, visit their website and fill out the volunteer application form. The time commitment varies depending on the program but generally ranges from a few hours per week to full-time opportunities.

Website: heartsofgoldfoundation.org
Location(s): Cuenca and surrounding communities
Time Commitment: 3-40 hours per week

Fundación El Arenal

Fundación El Arenal is a non-profit organization that focuses on education, conservation, and sustainable development in rural communities. Volunteers can engage in activities like teaching, reforestation, and organic farming. To get involved, contact the foundation through their website. The time commitment is flexible and can range from a few hours to several days per week, with both short-term and long-term opportunities available.

Website: fundacionelarenal.org
Location(s): Rural communities near Cuenca
Time Commitment: Flexible (a few hours to several days per week)

CETAP-Lucy

CETAP-Lucy is a center dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities through education, therapy, and vocational training. Volunteers can assist in classrooms, support therapy sessions, or help with administrative tasks. To get involved, contact the center directly. The time commitment is usually a few hours per week, with opportunities available Monday through Friday.

Website: cetaplucy.org
Location(s): Cuenca
Time Commitment: A few hours per week (Monday-Friday)

Parque Nacional Cajas

Parque Nacional Cajas is a protected area that offers volunteering opportunities for nature enthusiasts. Volunteers can participate in conservation efforts, trail maintenance, and environmental education. To get involved, contact the park administration. The time commitment varies, but volunteers typically dedicate a few days to a week, with opportunities available year-round.

Website: www.cajas.gob.ec
Location(s): Parque Nacional Cajas
Time Commitment: A few days to a week

Fundación Municipal Turismo para Cuenca

The Municipal Tourism Foundation for Cuenca offers volunteering opportunities for those interested in cultural preservation and tourism. Volunteers can assist with events, provide tourist information, or support cultural projects. To get involved, contact the foundation through their website. The time commitment is flexible and can range from a few hours to several days per week.

Website: www.cuenca.gob.ec/turismo/
Location(s): Cuenca
Time Commitment: Flexible (a few hours to several days per week)

Hogar de Esperanza

Hogar de Esperanza is a home for abandoned and abused children that relies on volunteers to support its daily operations. Volunteers can assist with childcare, education, and administrative tasks. To get involved, contact the organization directly. The time commitment is usually a few hours per week, with opportunities available Monday through Friday.

Website: hogaresperanza.org.ec
Location(s): Cuenca
Time Commitment: A few hours per week (Monday-Friday)

Fundación Cordero de Dios

Fundación Cordero de Dios is dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities through education and vocational training. Volunteers can assist in classrooms, support workshops, or help with administrative tasks. To get involved, contact the foundation through their website. The time commitment is usually a few hours per week, with opportunities available Monday through Friday.

Website: www.corderodedios.org.ec
Location(s): Cuenca
Time Commitment: A few hours per week (Monday-Friday)

Biblioteca Municipal "Remigio Crespo Toral"

The Municipal Library "Remigio Crespo Toral" offers volunteering opportunities for those interested in promoting literacy and cultural activities. Volunteers can assist with library services, events, and workshops. To get involved, contact the library directly. The time commitment is flexible and can range from a few hours to several days per week.

Website: www.bibliotecacuenca.gob.ec
Location(s): Cuenca
Time Commitment: Flexible (a few hours to several days per week)

Fundación Huella Verde

Fundación Huella Verde is an organization focused on environmental conservation and education. Volunteers can participate in reforestation efforts, environmental campaigns, and educational workshops. To get involved, contact the foundation through their website. The time commitment varies depending on the project but generally ranges from a few hours to several days per week.

Website: www.huellaverde.org.ec
Location(s): Cuenca and surrounding areas
Time Commitment: A few hours to several days per week

Fundación RED

Fundación RED is dedicated to promoting sustainable development and social inclusion through education and community projects. Volunteers can assist with teaching, community development, and administrative tasks. To get involved, contact the foundation through their website. The time commitment is flexible and can range from a few hours to several days per week.

Website: www.fundacionred.org.ec
Location(s): Cuenca and surrounding communities
Time Commitment: Flexible (a few hours to several days per week)

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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El Puente Roto (Broken Bridge) in Cuenca, Ecuador
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