Volunteer with Esperanza

Esperanza International works with our partner, Fundación Esperanza de México (FEM), to provide international service experiences for our volunteer groups in Tijuana, México.  FEM hosts groups of volunteers to help build homes and work on other projects in the under-served communities of Tijuana.  Volunteer groups work for 3 to 10 days in an immersion experience of Mexican culture, socio-economic development, and leadership building.

Plan a service experience for your group or for yourself!  We offer opportunities for groups and for individuals.

What Esperanza Means to Me

The work of Esperanza International and Fundación Esperanza de México in Tijuana and Oaxaca.

A Typical Work Day

For Organized Groups (3 to 10 days)

We work with organized groups from high schools, colleges, churches and more to provide a unique international service experience that develops the global citizenship of group members. Working directly with our partner, FEM, volunteers work hand-in-hand with Mexican families to build homes.  In addition, groups have the opportunity to learn more about the local culture through after-work activities such as experiencing a local cultural event, visiting other non-profit human service organizations, and more.

“Esperanza means being inspired by watching women meet to create communities for thier families and children and plan for their future.” –Kathy, group leader

For Individuals (3 to 10 days)

Independent volunteer trips are one of the best ways that interested individuals can volunteer with Esperanza International.  These mixed-groups incorporate volunteers from different locations, experience-levels and backgrounds. Contact the group leaders (below) directly if you have interest in participating in the trips and they will provide information about prices and logistics.

“I was caught completely off guard by the great disparity between media portrayal of Tijuana and actually experiencing it.” –Rodney, independent volunteer

Upcoming Independent Groups

• June 15-22, 2013:
  Friends of Steve Hinderhofer.  To participate please contact Steve at hindy08@gmail.com.
• July 7-14, 2013:
  Goodwin and Friends.  To participate please contact Ken Goodwin at goodwin.hp@gmail.com.
• August 10-17, 2013:
  East/West Group.  Now in its fourth year, this group is open to people of any age from any location.
  To participate please contact Eric at eric.reutter@esperanzaint.org.  Watch the 2012 East/West video.

For Individuals (Long-Term)

We offer long-term volunteer positions (6 months to 1 year) in which volunteers live and work in Tijuana.  Long-term volunteers assist in coordinating volunteer groups and the families in house building through FEM’s community program.  Ability to speak Spanish is required since one of the functions is to help with communication between the volunteers and the families. Other responsibilities include organizing and accompanying the volunteer groups in a variety of activities that enrich their experience in Tijuana, administrative tasks, teaching English classes, etc.  Serving as a long-term volunteer is an opportunity to better experience the culture of Tijuana,  understand the complex issues surrounding the border region, develop leadership skills and work towards greater social justice.

Program Fees

Fees support our community development program in Mexico and make our work possible.  Our fees are based on per-person participation rates and depend on the length of trip and group size.  A typical trip of five work days and six nights would cost $340 per person and would cover all costs associated with construction and lodging but would exclude airfare.  Please contact Amanda Lasik at amanda.lasik@esperanzaint.org or (619) 947-0166 for detailed prices and fundraising ideas.

To Learn More or To Register Your Group

Amanda Lasik
amanda.lasik@esperanzaint.org
(619) 947-0166