In the heart of Central America, Costa Rica is a model of democracy having abolished its military in favor of investing in education, health care, and other areas of social improvement. By volunteering in Costa Rica, teens can get involved in areas of work that are at the very core of its social system. Costa Rica, or “the rich coast,” is a popular eco-tourism destination for those interested in conservation and the environment.
PURISCAL
Puriscal, located about an hour west of the capital city of San Jose, is situated between two mountain ranges, boasts great weather, and incredible views of the nearby Pacific Ocean. The interesting history of Puriscal is closely tied to the introduction of the coffee bean. Cultural traditions remain strong, as there is little outside influence in this semi-rural community. Teens volunteering in this small town, you will experience Costa Rican traditions, arts, and culture first-hand.
THE CROSS-CULTURAL SOLUTIONS EXPERIENCE IN PURISCAL
The CCS Teen Volunteer Abroad program is specifically designed to provide a safe and secure international volunteering experience for teens aged 15-17 years old. Learn more about the program components in Puriscal:
Volunteer Work: Volunteer placements in Puriscal are always in sustainable community development projects which CCS works with year-round. The volunteer work on Teen Volunteer Abroad programs is always a group-based project, designed to be completed within the program dates. These projects may include painting murals in a primary school, planting a garden in an elderly center, or participating in recreational activities with the community.
Cultural & Learning Activities: These may include an in-depth orientation, insightful discussions with staff and local experts on cultural issues, history related to the abolition of the army, and politics. Trips to the La Cangreja Wildlife Refuge or the nearby coffee plantations may also be included. Weekly Spanish language and cooking classes are offered to volunteers who are interested, as well as opportunities to learn to dance salsa and merengue.
Free Time: There will be time in the afternoons and evenings to rest and relax in the CCS Home-Base with fellow teen volunteers. CCS also arranges optional, staff-accompanied activities to explore the community and culture. The groups are supported and supervised by CCS in-country staff at all times. The most common free time activities include: trips to local markets, walks around the local community, and daily trips to the internet café.
Home-Base in Puriscal: The Puriscal Home-Base is located in a residential neighborhood, within walking distance of museums, shops, markets, internet cafés, and all that Puriscal has to offer. During the Teen Volunteer Abroad dates, only participating teens will occupy the Home-Base and bedrooms are separated by gender. Meals at the CCS Home-Base are prepared by local cooks and will reflect the local cuisine including dishes with rice, beans, and delicious fresh fruit.
Transportation to and from your volunteer placement and any Cultural & Learning Activity is provided by CCS’ licensed drivers. Local CCS staff helps facilitate your volunteer experience and are always available to handle any questions that may arise. Learn more about the in-country staff in Puriscal.
