Centro una familia de familias (ECU-110)

Type: Socially Excluded Groups: Street children - Country: Ecuador

Brief description and main aims

Centro una familia de familias provides education and technical training to working street children and their families.

This organization was founded by retired Catholic priests over 45 years ago. It is extremely well structured with great staff. The center has served over 3,000 families and is one of the most well known organizations in Latin America. 

Main Activities

The project provides basic education (high school degree) for all members of the family, while allowing children to maintain their jobs  on  the  street  (selling  gum,  shining  shoes,  etc.).  Then,  once  they obtain their high school diploma, they can specialize in a variety of subjects from mechanics to sewing or carpentry. 

Volunteer tasks

Support in a variety of subjects and ages depending on interests (day care, English, IT, adult education, etc.), help in one of the technical areas (carpentry, mechanics, sewing), play sports, help in communal areas, such as the library.

Volunteer requirements / Skills

Very good level of English and Spanish, hardworking, proactive and willingness to work 8 hours a day. 

Location

Cotocollao (north of Quito) and La Marín (historical center).

Hosting Situation (Board and Lodging)

In the center in the north of Quito there is a big volunteer house, with private rooms and private bathrooms. There is internet in the house and you have 3 daily meals at the center (you can also make your own food if you prefer). Volunteers also have the option to live with a host family.