Frequently asked questions
Can volunteering be done in groups?
Yes, we accept couples and groups, and we also organize special projects for related groups that have specific objectives.
When can I volunteer?
At any time of the year, help is always needed.
How can I pay for the program?
You must pay 100% of the amount corresponding to the volunteering time span in the first three days after your arrival and installation.
Are Expand Peru programs only for university students and professionals?
No. Volunteers can be from different careers, university, students, or anyone who has the desire to help.
Will it be necessary to make more payments to the organization or spend more money during my stay?
- No, you will not have to make more payments to the organization while you are volunteering. But you will have to make your personal expenses (public transport, phone calls, fun, extra water, excursions, medicines, etc.).
Do I have to pay in advance to be accepted as a volunteer?
No. Our organization does not charge in advance, all payments are made in person directly to our organization, this has to be done during the first days of volunteering.
Can I combine different work programs?
Yes, you can work on different programs, organizing your time with the coordinators of our organization.
Is there an age limit to participate as a volunteer in Expand Peru?
The minimum age is 18 years old, there is no maximum age limit.
How much is the minimum number of hours per day of volunteer work?
At least 4 hours per day. There are volunteers who choose to work all day long (8 hours)
How much is the minimum time to volunteer?
The minimum time is one week, we recommend at least one month, so that volunteers can get to improve their objectives and have a complete experience.
Is Peru a safe country?
Yes, Peru is generally a safe country, with problems like any other country in the world, but our organization strives to guarantee you a safe experience; also Huancayo city, in which we work, is one of the safest in Peru.
Are there free days during the week, to carry out other types of activities, such as tourism, sports, etc.?
Yes, volunteers work from Monday to Friday and have free Saturdays and Sundays to carry out various activities with the organization or on their own.
How do you distribute the payment of the Expand Peru volunteers?
Our organization has a very simple operating organization and budget. The payment is distributed to the administrative and operating expenses of our organization, to families that provide accommodation and to aid programs managed by Expand Peru.
What level of Spanish do I need to volunteer?
It is not necessary to have a high level of Spanish; in many cases volunteers have come with little or no Spanish and during their experience they have learned a lot. Our organization will help you if you need it.
What types of accommodations does the organization offer for volunteers?
There are two options for volunteers: accommodation with Peruvian families in the urban or rural area and residence for volunteers.
Can I volunteer and stay on my own, in an accommodation that is not part of the organization?
No. It is necessary for the volunteer to stay in any of the two options we offer, these accommodations have been designed and supervised by our organization to provide volunteers with adequate, safe and comfortable food and lodging.
Does "Expand Peru" organize tourist activities on weekends as part of the volunteer programs?
Yes. On weekends we organize different activities, tourism, recreational sports, cultural, exchange, fun, etc. etc. It is important to mention that our organization does not charge for this type of activities; Expand Peru is a social assistance institution, not a travel agency, all leisure activities are carried out as part of the integration, learning and recreation for volunteers.
Does the organization have work material for volunteers or do I have to carry mine?
Our organization has work material for volunteers, but it is not always enough. If you want and have enough resources, you can bring some material. To better choose what is needed, please contact our coordinators. Keep in mind that it is not mandatory to bring material, but it is always helpful to receive things, especially for children.
What is included in the payment made to Expand Peru?
The payment made by the volunteer to Expand Peru includes: o Assistance and Advice: staff dedicated 24 hours a day, to the assistance, advice and permanent coordination of volunteers. o Certification: Diploma that will certify the work performed by the volunteer. o Accreditation: Document that officially identifies volunteers who work in our Programs. o Uniform: Only for special activities. o Informative Material: Which will allow volunteers to have a better and safer stay in our city and its surroundings, maps and guides. o Accommodation and food: Lodging in a Peruvian family or in the residence of volunteers, three meals per day (in case you choose to stay with a family).