Become a Long-Term Volunteer

The primary work of Long-Term Volunteers is to accompany visiting groups and both facilitate their experience and interpret language and the work of the Mission. Long-Term Volunteers (LTVs) must commit to at least three months of service in San Lucas. The work includes helping to arrange itineraries, accompanying groups to work sites, interpreting, ensuring all safety protocols are met and logistical needs are arranged. The experience of a Long-Term Volunteer at the San Lucas Mission is focused on learning. By working with Guatemalans and accompanying them in their daily activities, Long-Term Volunteers can learn about the richness of Mayan culture, the work of the Mission, and life in Guatemala.

Long-Term Volunteers become a part of Mission projects, form relationships in the community and learn about the community development efforts of the San Lucas Mission. While participating in this cross-cultural exchange, we hope that Long-Term Volunteers become more open, aware, and educated global citizens.

Volunteer Work

The average day for a Long-Term Volunteer will vary during the course of their time at the Mission. Most days are spent guiding visiting groups. If visiting groups are not present, LTVs take part in various projects headed by Mission Leadership, including gardening, construction, coffee processing and picking, and work at the Women’s Center. Initiative is required on the LTV’s part to get involved. The Coordinators will help in facilitating the experience.

Long-Term Volunteers are required to interpret Spanish for visiting groups, so proficiency in Spanish is required. Long-Term Volunteers also are expected to learn about the history and function of the Mission so that they can answer questions brought to them by group leaders.

Room and Board

LTVs reside in apartments rented by Friends of San Lucas. Depending on the number of LTVs present, rooms may be shared with up to three people. Homestays are not available. All volunteers and staff members share meals prepared by staff at the Mission. Wi-fi is available.

Language

Before arriving at the Mission, Long-Term Volunteers must be comfortable speaking Spanish in casual situations. You will also be asked to interpret for groups on a regular basis. After you are accepted as an LTV, Mission staff will provide recommendations on any additional Spanish language learning for you to participate in prior to arrival in San Lucas.

Application

Interested in joining the LTV team? To apply, email your resume and available dates to eisa.patino@sanlucasmission.org.