Why be just another tourist in Costa Rica? ELI works with local organizations based in Heredia to create 2-6 week long volunteer and cultural immersion experiences. All programs in Costa Rica include 1 week of intensive Spanish classes.

Teaching and Children's Programs

These programs target at-risk children living in impoverished areas or unsafe conditions. Volunteers can assist teaching English and other subjects in classrooms in primary and middle schools in poorer neighborhoods, assist with after school programs, and help run day camps for the children during school vacations. Some activities may include teaching English, dancing, drawing, organizing arts and crafts, helping with homework, and teaching social skills. By working with children at risk, volunteers have the chance to use their skills and energy to encourage the children to become good citizens and productive members of society.

Teaching English to Teens and Adults

A large part of of Costa Rica's economy is based on tourism, and the tourism industry is constantly growing. Being able to speak English is quickly becoming a necessary skill. Volunteers are needed to teach teenagers and adults conversational English. By helping them learn English, volunteers will give them a chance to greatly improve their standard of living.

Environmental Projects

With over 25% of the country's total land area set aside in national parks and preserves and a booming low-impact tourism industry, Costa Rica Stands as a beacon for others to follow, but the work is not over. There are still many environmental issues that the nation is wrestling with: endangered species, corridor preservation and restoration, rare ecosystem conservation, and others. Many communities have begun to understand the potential for economic development that comes with carefully planned conservation projects. Volunteers working with these projects can complete a wide variety of projects in collaboration with Costa Rica's national park system, eco-communities, or ongoing sea turtle preservation projects.

Health Programs

The health projects in Costa Rica offer a wonderful opportunity for doctors, nurses, medical, and pre-medical students to become familiar with the challenges and health issues in Costa Rica. Tasks range from observation of doctors and nurses to assistance. Depending on Spanish proficiency, experience, skill, and knowledge, volunteers may assist with tasks such as checking blood pressure, distributing food and medicine, weighing babies, accompanying emergency response vehicles, and helping with first aid procedures. Volunteers may also be asked to help with different programs such as health, basic prevention, nutrition, and sanitation programs organized through a number of hospitals, local clinics, and EBAIS (small community clinics).

Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment

Women in Costa Rica have made many advancements in the workplace, politics, and legally in the past few decades, but many women still suffer from discrimination, disenchantment, subservience, or worse. Volunteers with this program will help to coordinate or support a women's self help group aimed at empowering the members through education, emotional support, and camaraderie. This program requires advanced to fluent Spanish proficiency.