About ELAP Group Projects

In an effort to facilitate greater interaction between university students and the international community, ELAP offers Alternative Spring Break projects in Caribbean Coast, Costa Rica,and Santiago, Dominican Republic and 2-week summer group projects in Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic and Peru. During these projects, participants are immersed in the language and Latin American culture through activities, excursions and participation in volunteer service projects. These projects facilitate understanding of the local culture by recognizing the challenges faced by various communities and making a positive impact while abroad. Each ELAP Group will consist of a maximum of 15 volunteers.

GROUP PROJECT INFORMATION

Throughout the program, volunteers work side by side with locals in the host country to complete a meaningful service project which addresses the needs of the local community. Projects are selected by our on-site staff members who seek admirable organizations and dynamic projects for its participants. Project development is done on a yearly basis and takes into consideration organizational needs, availability and participant skills and interests. Volunteer options fall into the general service listed below, with examples of past placements:

Orientation

Participants will fly into the appropriate airport for their host city where they will be met by the ELAP On-site Coordinator. The ELAP staff will provide participants with a brief introduction to the local history and culture, as well as information and support regarding their homestay, and adjustments to life in their host country. Students who participate in an ISA program prior to joining the ELAP volunteer project will remain in the host city and are not required to participate in all orientation activities. All ELAP volunteers will participate in a detailed project orientation before volunteering.

Eligibility

ELAP volunteers are placed in environments where their limits are tested. Throughout the program, participants will face situations that will be challenging- both physically and emotionally. These programs will put volunteers face to face with the realities of their host city while helping them grow personally through serving local communities.ELAP participants must exhibit flexibility,maturity, a strong ethic,adaptability, and motivation. Furthermore, it is vital that participants recognize that the service projects are designed to serve the interests of others, not the interests of the volunteers. Open-mindedness and a willingness to serve are essential requirements for all participants.

Requirements

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*If you're unsure of your language level, please contact ELAP!

Program Application

Applications received by ELAP are reviewed on a rolling basis. Participants meeting the qualification requirements will be accepted on a first-come-first-served basis. To be considered for one of the Group Projects, participants must complete and submit all documents by the application deadline indicated. Students who are participating in an ISA Academic Program are not required to submit an additional transcript, but will need to submit the ELAP application and supplemental pages and $200 deposit.