Description and Impact

Although surrounded by the lush and beautiful Sierra de Madre Mountains, the valleys and cities of Oaxaca are plagued with environmental problems. The quickly expanding city center means more air pollution from increased traffic, overuse and waste of water, improper disposable of garbage and other negative effects of a growing population. Due to increase in prices in the city, many poor people are forced to move outward into the valleys, where they tear apart the land as they try to make a life for themselves and their families. Subsequently the valleys have their own set of environmental problems, most notably land degradation. Due to lack of understanding about sustainability, Oaxaquenos are unable to move forward in changing their environment to ensure the longevity of their communities and culture.

What is the overall goal of the project? The overall goal of this project is to contribute to social change through an environmental medium by developing and promoting programs that include the care, protection and conservation of the environment.  Ultimately this organization aims to become a benchmark of social participation for sustainable development and environmental care.  In order to achieve this goal, the organization has developed several programs such as planting trees, promoting solutions to reduce air pollution and human waste, supporting and organizing workshops on the benefits of bicycle riding as an alternative form of transportation and various other efforts. With the help of its staff and of course you, the volunteer, they are able to educate and encourage the people of Oaxaca to envision and develop an alternative view of the world they live in. 

What's Included

• Homestay with a carefully-screened Mexican family
• Daily meals (you will receive three meals a day)
• Project funding and support 
• Spanish language classes
• Onsite transportation, airport pickup and drop off 
• Health and travel insurance
• Cultural and adventure excursions
• 24-hour support from ProWorld Mexcio staff 
• Access to Casa ProWorld Mexico – unlimited filtered water, wireless internet

What's Not Included

• Airfare, Visa and Airport Tax (if applicable)