Peru

"I loved being immersed in the culture of Lima - living in a suburban neighborhood; working in a shantytown; meeting residents from all walks of life; learning Spanish; visiting restaurants, museums and other attractions recommended by people who live there. I think I saw and experienced so much more than had I chosen to visit Peru on my own."

Ronna Bolante, Peru volunteer

Why Volunteer in Lima?

Lima is the capital city of Peru and the cornerstone of politics, art, culture, and history. The influx of indigenous people who have come to the capital in search of work, education and an opportunity to improve their lives has created a city of diverse cultures in which the traditional and modern coexist. Home to more than 8 million people and growing rapidly, Lima presents a complex and fascinating view of urban life. The majority of Lima's residents today live in shantytowns (over 5 million), known as pueblos jovenes (young towns), that surround the city.

Volunteer in Lima Peru CCS volunteer programs in Lima are centered around one shantytown in particular, Villa El Salvador, which has fought adversity to become recognized as a leading example of community development in the Americas. In April 1971, nearly 200 families living in inner-city Lima slums decided to "invade" a tract of desert on the outskirts of the city. In 48 hours they were joined by an additional 9,000 people. The government at the time reacted violently to the land grab, sending in troops to evict the invaders. Two young men were killed in the standoff, and many more were injured and detained. In an effort to solve the conflict, the government offered the families a massive plot of desert land in what was known as Tablada de Lurin, 25 km south of Metropolitan Lima. The government also promised to provide basic services such as water, electricity, sewers and access roads. On May 11, 1971, nearly 7,000 families were taken in a military convoy to the sand dunes of Tablada de Lurin. Villa El Salvador was born.

Volunteer with Student Since its establishment, Villa El Salvador has been known as a self-managed community. The first residents had to pressure the government for basic services. What sets Villa El Salvador apart from other low-income communities in Lima is its planned growth. The founders of the community drew up plans for expansion in sectors (there are currently 11 sectors) and set aside land for agriculture, industry, schools, clinics and parks. It was officially incorporated as one of Lima's 43 districts in 1983. Today, Villa El Salvador's original sectors are vibrant commercial and residential areas, and years of protests have resulted in near total coverage in terms of electricity, water, and paved roads. In Villa El Salvador you will have the chance to witness first-hand the strong-willed nature of the Peruvian people and the pride they take in their heritage and culture, despite sometimes overwhelming obstacles.

CCS offers the following programs in Lima, Peru:
Volunteer Abroad -- 2 to 12 weeks | Click for Start Dates
Insight Abroad -- one week | Click for Start Dates

Request more information about volunteering in Lima or read more about the CCS Experience in Lima, Peru from the topics below:

Learn about volunteering in Ayacucho, Peru or return to the main Peru page.

Read stories and testimonials of participants who have volunteered in Peru or watch a video on volunteering in Lima.