Volunteering with CCS in Costa Rica for 3 months was the best idea I have ever had. I was a recent college graduate looking for something to do to fill my time between job searching and figuring out life as a post grad. This was exactly the experience I needed in my life. I volunteered for 4 weeks in a Special Education School, then another 4 weeks in an Orphanage, and my last 4 weeks I was in a Regular School teaching English. The intrinsic rewards I took away from each placement was unbelievable. The sense of gratification that while I was only in each placement for 4 weeks at a time these kids had such a huge impact on my life and outlook on life!
The cultural learning activities that the staff takes you on was always fun. I saw so much during the work week. The rain forest, coffee plantation, Irazu volcano, and the butterfly house were among my favorites. The staff was absolutely amazing. Everyone is friendly and willing to do whatever it is to make you feel comfortable. It was comforting as someone who only knew basic Spanish that the staff spoke English. The living conditions are clean and safe. The night guard was friendly and very alert of activity outside the gates.
As a CCS alum I can not wait to continue doing my part with this organization and continue to explore the world while making an impact in the lives of those in need of a helping hand.
