Planning a Volunteer Vacation to Mexico

For some people, a vacation lying in the sun and doing nothing is more frustrating than relaxing. These people prefer to be active on their vacations and welcome the opportunity to help others during their time off. Others take vacation time specifically to perform good deeds for others. If you want to spend some time helping others, a volunteer vacation in Mexico may just be the right choice for you.

In Mexico, more than 1,000,000 families live in substandard housing, according to official estimates. Habitat for Humanity Mexico estimates that this number may be even higher, because it doesn’t take into consideration multiple families living in crowded conditions under one roof. In fact, Habitat for Humanity estimates Mexico’s housing needs at double the official estimates.

Based on Christian principles, Habitat for Humanity promotes adequate housing as a fundamental right for all people. Working with people from all nations and walks of life, they develop housing for families and work to support community sustainability. More than 20 years ago, Habitat for Humanity began working in Mexico in the cities of Chihuahua and Hildago. Habitat for Humanity Mexico now works in all 17 states and has grown to become one Latin America's largest Habitat for Humanity Programs.

Depending on the amount of time you have to spend, you may choose from the Global Village Program, which is a two-week volunteer trip, or the International Volunteer Program, an opportunity that lasts several months. The cost of participating in the Global Village Program varies, but excluding air fare, the cost for a 9- to 14-day trip averages between $1,200 and $1,500. Fees include room and board including meals as well as transportation in Mexico. Air fare and baggage handling fees aren’t included. A small part of the participation fee also goes to support the local building program. If this sounds high, don’t worry – part or all of the participation fee may be tax deductible.

To participate in the Global Village volunteer program in Mexico, you must be at least 14 years old, in good health and, if you’re a minor, you may need to be accompanied by your parent or guardian. More information on this and the International Volunteer Program can be found on Habitat for Humanity’s website.

In addition to Habitat for Humanity, the Projects Abroad organization offers a number of volunteer vacation opportunities in many different countries. In Mexico, their efforts are based in Guadalajara.

In one program, high school age students can participate in turtle conservation work at the Campamento Tecoman Biological Station. In addition to learning the Spanish language during the day, students spend evenings working to help protect the rare Olive Ridley turtle by counting and collecting eggs, helping newborn turtles return to the sea and caring for injured turtles. Students also study local wildlife and help with crocodile conservation.

If animals interest you, you may also want to check out Projects Abroad's veterinary medicine and animal care projects. In Mexico, you can work with a variety of animals you may never see in your ordinary animal care or veterinary work, including large snakes, elephants and big cats. Other volunteer program opportunities through Projects Abroad include teaching English, working in orphanages and providing medical care to impoverished regions. Projects Abroad’s prices vary depending on the nature and length of your stay.