Aynisuyu
Background:
In 1994, a group of leading experts within the field of social development founded the organization, placing a special focus on the department of Cochabamba. Aynisuyu focuses on assisting impoverished farmers, who are often marginalized and are most affected by unfair economic, social, and political conditions imposed by the government. Aynisuyu reaches out to the most deprived sectors of Bolivian society, especially women and children, and encourages active participation within the communities, thus promoting self sufficiency.
Objectives:
The main goal of Aynisuyu is to empower rural families, especially women and children, to become self-sufficient. The organization strengthens communities by way of Vigilance Committees. In addition, by encouraging active participation in municipal development, Aynisuyu also encourages farmers to defend their basic human rights. Providing education on personal hygiene, disease prevention, food safety, and nutrition is also important to Aynisuyu, as lack of knowledge in these areas can be detrimental to advancement.
Who does Aynisuyu help?
Aynisuyu reaches out to impoverished families who live in the rural communities of the Cochabamba department. Most of these families are Quechua speaking and have little or no knowledge of their basic human rights.
Working conditions:
The main offices of Aynisuyu are located in the southern zone of Cochabamba, a short bus ride away from the city center. Volunteers will be required to work in the field, accompanying staff to rural communities within the Cochabamba department.
Aynisuyu projects:
Aynisuyu’s projects are focused on health, education and production. They provide educational outreach programs designed to empower women to take more control of their lives. Duties include providing basic Spanish lessons and computation classes. Other projects include leadership seminars, basic business and accounting classes, human rights seminars, workshops on nutrition, food security and disease prevention, and horticulture.
Volunteer/ Internship requirements:
- Advanced Spanish
- Knowledge of human rights, education, business, agriculture, health (desired but not required)
- Willingness to work in rural locations
- Patient, tolerant and open-minded
- Minimum commitment period of one year