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European Solidarity Corps

The power of together

Development of a “bio-factory” and production of native medicinal herbs

ASPEm

Asociación CDRO

Totonicapán, Guatemala

Description

The volunteer will support and assist CDRO in activities that contribute to the sustainable development of rural communities. They will support programming and field activities for the development of sustainable agricultural models, agroecological production and agroforestry systems. They will participate in the development and management of a biofactory and will collaborate in the cultivation of native medicinal plants. The volunteer will also contribute to the sustainable development of rural communities by participating in the strengthening of inclusive education, providing educational and training services, developing an information and marketing system to disseminate information among communities, and designing and developing explanatory, training, information, communication and awareness-raising material. To implement these actions, the volunteer will work with local staff and accompany CDRO technicians to rural communities to exchange good practices and knowledge.

Accommodation, food and transport arrangements

The volunteer will live in Totonicapán near the municipal building in zone 1, surrounded by services such as markets and pharmacies. The organization covers rent and basic services such as electricity, water, and internet. The house has a single room and kitchen, is located on the second floor, and is 2 km from the office. The volunteer can buy food in local eateries or prepare meals in the kitchen. They can also bring food to the office. Local minibuses facilitate transportation in 15 minutes, and there are taxis and buses.

Training during the activity

The volunteer participates in initial training which includes: introduction to the CDRO team, for integration and support; orientation about CDRO, for explanation of objectives and projects; visit to the communities, to meet direct collaborators. They will develop skills in: agro-ecological production and agro-forestry systems with particular focus on the Guatemalan context; civic competencies; intercultural awareness; problem solving; linguistic knowledge which will be certified through the OLS; understanding of the EU humanitarian context. All skills acquired will be certified by Youth Pass.

Participant profile

A person passionate about flora and fauna, willing to dedicate themselves to agroecological activities. Possession of a degree related to natural sciences is a plus but not mandatory. The candidate should have communication skills and an interest in working within rural communities, as well as the ability to work in a team. Skills are required in the creation of awareness-raising, information and advocacy materials to promote sustainable development in rural communities. They should be able to support local technicians in preparing technical studies and bio-architectural projects and in developing training for community leaders. The candidate should have a strong aptitude for volunteering, a sense of responsibility and organizational, listening, and dialogue skills.

Activity dates

A total of 48 week(s) during the period 01/12/2024 to 31/10/2025


Activity location

Totonicapán, Guatemala


Individual volunteering


Looking for participants from


Activity topics

Environment and natural protection

Education and training

Nutrition and subsistence agriculture


Deadline for applications

Application deadline: 31/10/2024 23:00