Spring Break Service and Adventure for Teens in Costa Rica

Lesson Plan

On this program you will experience Spring Break in a whole new way! Lend a hand on projects that improve the lives of local residents and the natural world. Costa Rica is a breathtaking, culturally rich country; however, some communities still need extra support, and your efforts can be a big help. It’s not Spring Break without a bit of adventure, and Costa Rica has an ample supply for everyone!! You’ll have the chance to enjoy water sports, have fun in the sun, and participate in other activities with your new friends from all over the world. When enrolling for this program, choose to focus on one of two tracks: Community Development Track or Sea Turtle Track. The track you choose will determine the focus of your experience and your community service projects.

Community Service

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TRACK

** **On the general service track, students may work on a variety of projects determined by local community leaders based on what projects are most needed at the time of your arrival. There are many opportunities to serve the community here. For example, you may assist in environmental projects such as planting native tree saplings, or creating signs to promote environmental awareness and sustainability. You could work on initiatives within local schools, such as improving classroom infrastructure or starting a school or community garden.

SEA TURTLE TRACK

** **On the sea turtle track, students will take to local beaches and participate in cleanup efforts, removing debris that can ensnare young hatchlings making their way to the sea. You’ll help local partners as they survey nesting sites and make sure they’re primed for the nesting mothers. You’ll also be assisting on night patrols with a local nonprofit dedicated to environmental protection and to increasing birth rates for Costa Rica’s threatened sea turtle species.

Immersive Learning

Living in an authentic community is a great way to learn about Costa Rican culture. Learn to dance salsa and merengue, two traditional dances of the region. In Costa Rica, food is a huge part of their cultural identity–sample fresh fruits fresh from the tree, and try local dishes like gallo pinto or a casado, then learn to make traditional dishes yourself at a cooking class. Discuss current social issues in Costa Rica, including growing environmental concerns and the importance of ecotourism. You’ll also have opportunities to practice your Spanish or pick up new words with locals in the region.

Adventure

You can’t visit Costa Rica without getting a little taste of adventure! Our location on the Pacific coast is ideal for all things ocean: Cruise along Potrero Bay on a catamaran and play in the waves. You’ll have plenty of time for fun in the sun and relaxing in the sand. Go ziplining over green tree canopies and whitewater tube down a wild and picturesque river.

Program Highlights

• Volunteer on community development infrastructure projects or sea turtle preservation efforts alongside your new friends on the program
• Go tubing down the Rio Negro
• Engage with locals and practice your Spanish around town
• Zipline through the forest canopy
• Enjoy the ocean via catamaran and snorkel among marine life
• Experience Costa Rican culture through guest speakers, cooking and dance classes