Service – Learning in Cusco and The Sacred Valley of the Incas

Peru’s education system still struggles, especially in rural areas were the geography and the distance are the main complications. Education Program placements are in various public schools, after-school programs and after-school centers. Our participants placed in these organizations may have opportunities to assist teachers with their classroom duties, help lead English classes, support students through mentoring, organize and develop sport activities and educational games, and assist with homework.

One of the biggest problems in Cusco and the Sacred Valley of the Incas is the healthcare system, with only two public hospitals located in Cusco, is impossible to have a good coverage in the region. Private hospitals and NGO´s are very important to provide healthcare access in some areas. The influence of the Peruvian culture and traditions are also very interesting to analyze, indigenous people use to visit Shamans or Andean healers when they are sick.
Our participants may have opportunities to help to provide health services in rural small hospitals and private clinics, providing support to the doctors and nurses, helping the patients and in the administrative areas.

These private organizations offer comprehensive services for children and young people with disabilities in Cusco. Participants will serve as support for children with disabilities and may assist with feeding and skills exercises as well as taking the kids around the outdoor gardens. Participants could also help at the laundry and the kitchen.

These local organization are providing housing, and safe environment in which high-risk youth boys and girls are able to improve their self-esteem, gain important life skills. Participants can facilitate games, help with homework, organize recreational afternoon activities, organize an English after class program, don’t forget that Cusco is one of the top tourist destinations in Latin America, English skills could help the kids in the future.

This organization has created an environment to care for the llamas, alpacas, vicuñas and guanacos, which are historically vital pieces of Peruvian culture. Raising and protecting these animals as well as harvesting their wool also leads to the preservation of traditional Incan spinning, dyeing, and weaving practices.
Participants will assist in caring for the animals. They may also assist with tours of the facility and weaving workshops, they also prepare the speech for the local weavers, improving their English skills and their selling techniques.