What do I need to know about Volunteer . . .

What combination of skills and personality makes for a highly effectiveinternational volunteer?

• Surprisingly, the personal characteristics of exceptional volunteers, in any discipline, are remarkably consistent: people who are patient, flexible, adaptable, innovative and open to new experiences and ideas are typically the most successful and satisfied volunteers.

Please keep the following in mind when choosing your program.

1. 
   Remember that volunteering means helping others to the best way you possibly can. It is necessary to know how to do the work you sign up for and be willing to take the time and patience to learn.
2. 
   Make sure your Spanish level matches the project’s language requirements. All projects require some Spanish but the levels do vary. We offer Spanish language classes for volunteers at a very good price.
3. 
   Evaluate what you want to get out of your time in Costa Rica. Volunteer projects require a lot of time and dedication and the volunteer project will be your primary time occupier.
4. 
   Volunteers who bring creativity, initiative, punctuality, respect, understanding etc. will find volunteering to be an incredibly rewarding experience. You get out of it what you put in it.
5. 
   Amistad Institute volunteer programs provide participants with many opportunities to explore the cultural and tourist attraction of Costa Rica. Keep in mind that this opportunity does not include luxurious travel plans. In all cases we offer local food, public transportation, hostels or homestays.

How to be a good Volunteer? (Taken from PBS Kids)
Volunteering is fun and rewarding, but it’s also a little more complicated than just showing up and having a good time. Here’s some advice on how to make the most of your volunteer work:

• 
  Be selfless. Selfless is the opposite of selfish. Don’t think about what you can do to help yourself. Think about what you can do to help others.
• 
  Be open-minded. One of the really great things about being a volunteer is the chance to learn and experience new things. Keep your mind open to new possibilities, and you’ll probably grow as a person.
• 
  Be respectful. Always remember to show respect for other people and other cultures. Keep in mind that your way of thinking or living is not the only way there is.
• 
  Be understanding. Try to see things through other people’s eyes. Try your best to understand what other people are going through, even if it’s something you’ve never dealt with yourself.
  Be humble. Humble people don’t brag or go around telling everyone about all the good things they’ve done just to get some attention or feel superior. They’re happy knowing that they’re making a difference, and don’t need to shout about it.
• 
  Be friendly. Treat others like friends, and they’ll do the same for you. Many people who volunteer meet new people with whom they want to stay friends. You might just meet someone who becomes a buddy for the rest of your life!