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Start your volunteer experience today by downloading the WAVES Info Pack.
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Testimonials
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As I left Lobitos this time, it was with a quiet but irrepressible sense of joy and satisfaction, knowing that Henry will continue to fuel this creative cycle, amplifying and sharing the story of his town and WAVES—the organization that has brought so many good people there to teach and to learn. - Forest Woodward -
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"I walk away with from this feeling like so much has happened, so much was achieved and there are so many stories to tell and a lot of great experiences to share" - Raffael Schmidt
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"I just want to thanks all the WAVES staff for the 2 weeks that I spent in this very special place that I will visit again and again, for sure." - Caio
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This is a great stop-off for people spending an extended time in South America. - Marieke
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It's a great atmosphere for teamwork and cooperation. - Jeremy Koons
Community Outreach
In Lobitos roughly 30% of the local youth finish High School. Those that drop out of school start fishing with their families or undertake another traditional local job. WAVES believes in empowering community members, youth in particular, to pursue education activities so they set career goals and live healthy lives.
5 year Objective: Over the next 5 years we plan to provide over 10,000 hours of classes, assisted by 500 volunteers, that will lead to 60% of participating youth pursuing further education opportunities (vocational training, college) and living enriched lives.
Methods:
English Classes for Youth and Adults: WAVES funds English classes, taught by local leaders, for youth in the school and (occasionally) adults in the Lobitos community. All volunteers are encouraged to participate.
Environmental Education Classes for Youth: WAVES funds an Environmental education teacher for local youth as part of an agreement with the Lobitos school. In direct coordination with the instructor, Spanish speaking volunteers are invited to participate in or present on environment/conservation issues. Non-spanish speakers participate in Beach Cleanup education activities.
Surf and Swim Classes for Youth: Many children (and adults), even though they live on the ocean, can’t swim. A core aspect of WAVES, the intention is to provide equipment, swim and surf lessons to local youth. Swimming and surfing programs foster a healthy young community and creative outlet for self-expression.
Community Education: In coordination w/ local staff, volunteers can give a “charla” or community presentation on a topic relevant to ongoing program focus. Topics can include: Cooking, Nutrition, General Health, Parenting, Sanitation, construction, business development, etc.
