Social Entrepreneur Corps: Ecuador

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Overview	The Coast
Quito	The Amazon
The Andes	Map

Note: Social Entrepreneur Corps does not currently offer a program in Ecuador. We are in the process of working with strategic partners to start the Ecuador program over the next year with a potential “Short Term Consulting Trip”. Please check back for developments and/or email us to express your interest in this program or collaboration so that we can stay in contact and keep you apprised of developments.

Ecuador is a country blessed. Though relatively small in size, it is home to arguably the most spectacular array of natural and cultural diversity anywhere. Ecuador begins 600 miles west of the coast of South America, where the Galapagos Islands serve as a living laboratory for the study of species evolution. The coastal region of Ecuador has retained its low-key charm and natural serenity. There are ample remote surfing beaches, charming fishing villages and the bustling port city of Guayaquil, all vying for your affection. Moving inland to the Andes region, Ecuador rewards visitors with breathtaking mountains, and the handsome capitol city of Quito. The eastern region of Ecuador is highlighted by the Amazon rainforest. Rich in biodiversity, thousands of exotic species of animals and plants await your introduction.

Quito

Flanked by the Andes mountain range sandwiched by the western slopes of the Volcano Guagua Pichincha standing at a colossal 4,790 m with canyons on the eastern side the city sits inside a lengthy narrow basin valley forming a setting unparalleled by most cities in South America. It is also the highest capital after La Paz in Bolivia in this continent and combined with its rich architecture of bygone colonial days the scenery and overall effect is simply breathtaking.

On clear days you may also view other snowcapped volcanoes such as Cotopaxi in the far distance adding to this truly unforgettable, impressionable ambiance of a large Ecuadorian city which combines both old and new, more modern sectors of the north which includes the international and national airport as well as the main embassies, businesses, banking services, restaurants.

The southern area in contrast houses various museums, churches, galleries, cathedrals, colonial buildings, balcony furbished homes and outdoor markets within narrow cobbled streets which helps balance the formulae. For many travelers of a well rounded 4 to 5 day excursion to Quito of the old and new life styles which was sanctioned through the auspices of UNESCO in 1978 who confirmed this latter area of colonial Quito to be a World cultural heritage site.

The Andes

Ecuador's Andes region offers an intriguing mix of nature, Indigenous culture and contemporary life, all in close proximity. From the window of a modern hotel in the capital city of Quito, you can view the majesty of the snow-capped Cotopaxi volcano. You can take part in a religious festival and visit the churches in Loja or explore the ruins where the Inca held their own celebrations. Be dazzled by the colors that fill the market at Otavalo one day and see those same colors in the Mindo Cloud Forest the next.

The Coast

There are 1,390 miles of coastline, where the Pacific Ocean meets Ecuador, but there is so much more to this scenic region than just pristine beaches. The bustling port city of Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest, offers sophisticated hotels, shops and restaurants. Numerous marine and wildlife reserves ensure a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Esmeraldas is the center of Afro-Ecuadorian culture and the birthplace of the Marimba. Choco-holics can indulge their passion by traveling the Cacao Route, visiting three historic cacao haciendas, gaining an in-depth knowledge of (and succulent experience with) Ecuador's renowned chocolate.

The Amazon

The biodiversity of Ecuador's Amazon Basin is some of the richest on the globe. Here pink dolphins are plentiful, and the birdwatching is some of the most rewarding anywhere. While the bio-diversity of Ecuador's Amazon Basin is truly remarkable, it is the combination of breathtaking beauty and the region's rich culture that make it a truly memorable destination. The lush green carpet of the rainforest provides a stunning backdrop for the crafts of indigenous craftsmen and traditional cuisines offer the adventurous a unique way to experience the natural world.

Map

Social Entrepreneurship Corps testimonial

Social Entrepreneur

“"Few organizations are brave enough to invite college students to shape their work; with its Social Entrepreneur Corps, Community Enterprise Solutions does just that. As a program participant I both outlined and executed projects that improved the lives of rural Guatemalans. The Social Entrepreneur Corps challenges its participants to tackle development issues on an intellectual level as well as with a hands-on approach. The reward of their work: meeting the Guatemalans whose lives they've unquestionably impacted."

"One day, a few other Social Entrepreneur Corps participants and I were taking surveys in rural Guatemala. A man welcomed us warmly into his house, even though his was the smallest and simplest on the block. We sat in a circle on the dirt floor of his home and asked him how his wood-burning stove was working; he said he loved it. To me, this experience encapsulates the spirit of the Social Entrepreneur Corps and the philosophy of its leaders. Only by going to the homes of the poorest Guatemalans and talking with them can you accurately assess their needs. Only through such raw encounters with the impoverished can you feel the true impact of your work. And only when you meet a man whose hospitality never falters in front of five strangers will you understand the enduring warmth of the Guatemalan people."

Jessica G., June 2007 Participant,
Graduate - University of Notre Dame

To read more testimonials from past Social Entrepreneur Corps participants, CLICK HERE

Social Entrepreneur Corps Testiminial

“During our recent medical mission to the Ixil triangle, the Social Entrepreneur Corps team provided us with some first rate volunteers whose help was invaluable. Their team leaders stepped up to the challenge of finding ways to translate medical terminology they have probably never heard before and provided the vital link between the patient and doctor or nurse, and the Social Entrepreneur Corps volunteers directed patients throughout the day with the efficiency and politeness of professionals. We were truly impressed with the caliber of these young people. Thank you guys. You helped us tremendously. We hope to work with you again in the future .”

Barbara Marymiak
Project Hands
www.projectshands.org

Social Entrepreneurship Corps testimonial

Social Entrepreneur Corps Testimonial

“The Social Entrepreneur Corps experience provides the rare opportunity to be purposefully submerged into the multi-layered complexity of Guatemala. Positioned at an intersection where the challenge of international development meets the analytical framework of the business-world, Social Entrepreneur Corps effectively blends a passion for social impact with thoughtful and context-specific business models. Anyone seeking an adventurous, hands-on experience is sure to benefit from and to make meaningful contributions along the sharp learning curve that the Social Entrepreneur Corps team has established.”

Erik H., 2007 Participant, M.S., University of Illinois

To read more testimonials from past Social Entrepreneur Corps participants, CLICK HERE

Social Entrepreneur Corps is an initiative of New Development Experience LLC, 2007