Overview
The Tandana Foundation is looking for a long-term Program Coordinator to lead and facilitate our group volunteer programs in Ecuador. This job involves coordinating service projects and leading volunteer programs for people from the United States who travel to Ecuador to learn about the local culture, make friends, and contribute to community well-being. The minimum time to commitment is six months although a one-year commitment is highly encouraged, appreciated, and will make your application much more competitive. Preferred start date of January 2nd (negotiable). The position is open until filled.
Responsibilities:
-Understand and implement Tandana values
-Take responsibility for program preparation, debriefing after the program, and leading the volunteers in all aspects of the program in a safe and engaging manner
-Arrange logistics of the program, take responsibility for handling the money and keeping accurate records
-Lead the programs on a daily basis and facilitate all aspects of the group’s stay in Ecuador
-Work with community leaders and other local contacts to coordinate volunteer work and cultural activities
-Set a positive tone for the group and create opportunities for reflection and improvement of group dynamics
-Represent Tandana in a positive manner to all community members and volunteers
-Solve problems and handle emergency situations in a professional manner
-Administrative tasks
-Opportunity to design special projects utilizing your expertise and special academic knowledge between programs
Requirements:
-Minimum of conversational Spanish and English; fluency in both languages preferred
-Experience leading groups in service projects or other experiential education programs
-Experience living in cross-cultural situations, preferably in Latin America
-Experience working with North Americans
-Ability to work cooperatively with a diverse array of people, to solve problems creatively, and to promote a positive experience for all involved
-Self-motivation, responsibility, and an ability to work independently
-WFA certification or greater first aid training and CPR certification
Benefits:
-Salary commensurate with experience and length of commitment ($10,000-12,000 per year).
-Round-trip transportation to Ecuador from the United States
-Two weeks of paid vacation for a 6 months contract OR Five weeks of paid vacation if a 1-year contract
-Room and board with a local family (homestay) if desired.
-Work expenses including local transportation, cell phone, and consular fees.
About The Tandana Foundation
The Tandana Foundation is a non-profit organization that offers intercultural volunteer experiences, scholarships, and support for community initiatives in highland Ecuador and Mali's Dogon Country. Its volunteer programs provide visitors to Ecuador or Mali the unique opportunity to be guests rather than tourists, to form intercultural friendships, to participate in a rich indigenous culture, and to make a difference in the lives of new friends. Its scholarships allow rural Ecuadorian students to continue their secondary and higher education and require reciprocal service to their communities. Its community initiatives support villagers in Mali and Ecuador as they work toward their dreams.
