Fundacion Pachamama

The Project

Rooted in the belief that “Another World is Possible,” particularly in terms of sustainable development, the Fundacion Pachamama offers technical, political and financial support to indigenous Amazonian nations of Ecuador so they can pursue their self-determined goals. The cornerstone of their innovative approach to proposals that support economic alternatives, collective governance, defense of land deeds, and conservation of the environment that supports humankind is their emphasis on and defense of the inalienable rights of the regions’ indigenous nations and nature herself. Ongoing projects include the maintenance of an ecotourism lodge that’s now entirely operated by the local Achuar community, a pisciculture project to raise fish and diversify protein sources, the “Jungle Mamas” rural maternal health program, a judicial network to raise awareness among indigenous populations of their rights and protect the rights of nature against exacerbated climate change stoked by oil interests in region, and ongoing grant writing and proposals for workshops on all of the above interest areas.

Why the project needs you

Fundacion Pachamama’s 20 employees are working on their respective project areas at “full.” This leaves little time to update their Database of supporters, seek new funders, propose and design new community workshops and/or training of trainer programs in themes from complementary monetary systems to cross-border dialogue, and update their website in English with current info on their ongoing efforts.

Role of Volunteer

This position would primarily be based in the Quito office under the supervision of one of the myriad Program Area managers, such as Health, Outreach, Communications, Legal Advice, Fundraising, etc. Volunteers would assist with research, logistics, library management, budgeting, communication and organization of existing programs, along with the potential to promote new programs.

Skills Required

Advanced Spanish. .Background in environmental law or justice, community organizing, administration, sustainable development, web design, community health, grant writing and public outreach all a plus.

Project Location

Quito, Ecuador. Depending your project area assignment, there may be site visits to the Amazon community. However, the Fundacion’s relationships with these indigenous communities are very carefully protected as years of trust-building has gone into forging these collaborative alliances.

Project facts

  • Duration: minimum 3 months
  • Cost:
  • Requirements: age 18+
  • Location: Quito, Ecuador, with possible trips into rural Amazon community
  • Project activities: Research, Administrative Coordination, Advocacy/Outreach, Database Organization
  • Working hours: 08:30 – 12:30 and 14:30 -17:00, M-F.,
  • Project Availability: Year-round

What’s included

  • Accommodation: Housing with homestay family in Quito
  • Food: 2 meals per day – Breakfast and Light Dinner
  • Training: Pre-departure pack, on-site Orientation and project introduction included
  • Language: 5 hours/week at local school
  • Support: 24 hour support
  • Excursion planning: Staff will help plan activities and excursions (some activities may cost extra)

Excursions

Quito’s central Andean location allows for weekend excursions to explore the colorful indigenous market in Otavalo, the Cloud Forest of Mindo, the Crater Lake along the Quilota Loop or hike the Cotopaxi volcano. Or just explore the old city of Quito, a World Heritage Site, and the capital’s diverse programming of exciting theater, music, art, and culture.

What’s not included

  • Flights
  • Insurance
  • Visas
  • Transport to site

Contact Info:

Mayra Romero, mromero@pachamama.org.ec