I am a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Honduras, 2007—2009) currently working in a government role in the area of graduate partnerships. I have been passionate about volunteer work since my college years in the DC area, through involvement in alternative spring break projects for Habitat and Humanity, as well as weekly volunteer stints at a bilingual preschool. My love of volunteering later moved overseas, as I participated in a year-long study abroad program in Costa Rica during junior year of college. This experience only increased my love of volunteering, a love that led to a two-year stint as a Peace Corps Volunteer.
Alumni Spotlight: Maureen O Neill
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First off, tell me about yourself!
How did you decide on ASVO?
ASVO was recommended to me by our study abroad staff. I paid a visit to their office in San José and also checked out the website, which was pretty extensive. They were very reasonably priced and had a wide variety of options. While most of their programs focus on work in the national parks, there was also a chance to live with a family and volunteer on a coffee cooperative in Monteverde. This sounded the most interesting to me, and I chose this option…within a few weeks, I was on my way to Monteverde!
What kind of volunteer work did you do, and how long were you there?
I spent three weeks on this cooperative, living with an older woman and getting to know her family members who would visit on a daily basis. I was put to work picking the last of the coffee crop on the farm. In addition, I assisted with basic construction of a few buildings on the property.
Was the volunteer work about what you expected when you signed up?
The work was not as intense as I’d originally anticipated. I had heard of ASVO volunteers who lived in less plush surroundings; I was living in a house with running water, electricity, and a room to myself, while other volunteers lived on the park grounds in cabin-like accommodations. In this regard, I think work varies from site to site; overall, however, I did feel that the work was meaningful.
Would you have changed anything about the trip?
I would have loved to stay longer—three weeks was not long enough!
What was your favorite part of volunteering with ASVO?
The interaction I had with the locals in my area was unparalleled. In my case, I learned so much about the campo lifestyle, one that I had never experienced before ASVO.
Would you recommend ASVO to a friend?
Absolutely. I have nothing but fond memories of my volunteer experience through ASVO, and I praise this program as a credible, cost-effective and easy way to volunteer in Costa Rica.