"Spanish on the Fly: AMIGOS provides a fun alternative to study abroad programs"

Published in Language Magazine in September 2007

Founded in 1965, AMIGOS is an international, non-profit organization that provides quality leadership and community service opportunities for young people while concurrently contributing to the well-being of hundreds of communities throughout the Americas. During its 42-year history, more than 20,000 AMIGOS Volunteers have gained a life-long understanding of community service, while strengthening multicultural understanding, and friendships in the Americas.

AMIGOS offers five-eight week summer programs in Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panamá, Paraguay, and  Uruguay. Additionally, AMIGOS also offers a special environmentally-focused January-term project in Costa Rica in which volunteers work alongside Costa Rican youth in trail maintenance and light construction projects, while learning about ecotourism and exploring beautiful rainforests. Volunteers live with Spanish-speaking host families and work in small teams to execute health, education, and other major projects in host communities, which are usually located in rural areas. Volunteers communicate in Spanish to facilitate community meetings, teach youth education classes, and share stories with their host families. AMIGOS Volunteers not only gain language skills and cultural understanding, but they also develop a profound appreciation for community service.