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Projects in Panama
Agriculture
The Sustainable Agriculture Systems program’s goal is that small-holder, rural Panamanian farmers—men, woman, youth, and children—are food secure and have resilient, sustainable livelihoods. After a period of integration, Volunteers work side-by-side with skilled community members promoting best and/or new techniques for farming, agriculture-based income generation, organizational development, and nutrition. Together, they assess community needs and create action plans to promote behavior change and achieve local goals.
Typical endeavors include growing cash crops such as vegetables or coffee, producing artisanal goods from local materials, developing basic budgeting, marketing or group organization trainings to support these endeavors, and addressing nutritional issues through gardens or new recipes. Additionally, the program serves primarily in indigenous regions of Panama and partners with local agencies, organizations, and NGOs, including the Ministry of Agriculture Development and the Food and Agriculture Organization.
Meet Isaiah, an Agriculture Volunteer
Isaiah left NYC behind and found himself in rural Panama—building gardens, raising seedlings, and working alongside farmers to support local food systems. Check out his video!
Youth in Development
The Youth Leadership Development program complements national government initiatives carried out by the Ministries of Education and Social Development. The program seeks to provide opportunities for Panamanians 12 to 19 years old to build on their skills and knowledge, develop self-esteem, navigate relationships, engage with their communities and pursue future employment. Volunteers collaborate with youth service providers such as school counselors, teachers, local leaders, parents and youth leaders to co-plan and co-facilitate activities in the school and community.
Potential activities include: workshops, clubs, day camps, mentorships, service-learning projects and awareness days. Volunteers and service providers monitor and evaluate youth participation using specific objectives and evaluation tools. To support each other’s growth as organizers, mentors and facilitators they share ideas, information, responsibilities and constructive feedback.
Meet Youth in Development Volunteer Joanna
Joanna conducts a reading activity during a summer camp with youth in Panama.
Environment
The Community Environmental Conservation program's goal is that Panamanians are equipped with the knowledge, skills and attitudes to promote environmental adaptation and resilience activities, conservation, and well-being in their own communities. Volunteers work with skilled community members, and in primary schools (with both teachers and students) collaborating on prioritized projects to address local environmental issues.
Typical activities include training on natural resource conservation (e.g., tree nurseries/reforestation, solid waste management, and organic gardening); promoting reliable energy (eco-stove construction); cultivating leadership (through camps and clubs); offering skills in project development and management; and co-planning and co-facilitating environmental education activities. Additionally, the program partners with local agencies, such as the Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Education, and national and regional NGOs.
