Fundación VASE (Voluntariado para la Ayuda Social del Ecuador) is a non-profit organization, created in 2008. We work to strengthen intercultural relations, promote volunteer social aid and inspire the commitment of a global citizenship.
We believe in a world full of solidarity, social and personal development, as well as respect for diversity. Through volunteering we build new generations with values dedicated to improving global social conditions.
Fundación VASE is the only member in Ecuador of the ICYE (International Cultural Youth Exchange) federation. ICYE is an international non-governmental organization with more than 70 years of experience in promoting youth activity and global citizenship. Today ICYE is a federation with more than 40 national committees in America, Africa, Asia, Europe and Oceania.

Aims of the project

Centro una familia de familias provides education and technical training to working street children and their families. They have 3 “classes” with their own small buildings and 4 teachers. The school’s objective is to offer a personalized, active and playful education in harmony with the environment not depending on the children s age, but respecting their psychological maturity and development, avoiding authorial guidance. Part of the school’s daily life is that the parents help alternately, focusing on the agricultural projects, the excursions, the cooking-project, etc.

Project´s activities
The project provides basic education (high school degree) for all members of the family, while allowing children to maintain their jobs on the street (selling gum, shining shoes, etc.). Then, once they obtain their high school diploma, they can specialize in a variety of subjects from Mechanics, to Sewing, to Carpentry.

Volunteer´s tasks
Support in a variety of subjects and ages depending on interests (day care, English, computation, adult education, etc.), help in one of the technical areas (carpentry, mechanics, sewing), play sports, help in communal areas such as the library.

In the Center in the North of Quito there is a big volunteer house, with private rooms and private bathrooms. There is internet in the house and you have 3 daily meals at the center (you can also make your own food if you prefer). Volunteers also have the option to live with a host family.

Cotocollao (north of Quito) and La Marín (Historical Center). This organization was founded by retired Catholic priests over 45 years ago. It is extremely well structured with great staff. The center has served over 3,000 families and is one of the most well known organizations in Latin America. In Quito there are two centers: one in the historical center and a larger one in the north of Quito.

Very good level of English and Spanish, hardworking, proactive, willingness to work 8 hours a day. The Center accepts volunteers starting in August.

Participation fees from August 2023 to January 2024 :
- 4 weeks: 500 €
- Add 125 € for each additional week.