Amigos de las Americas

AMIGOS has been a life-changing experience. Not only does AMIGOS broaden your worldwide perspective, but it teaches you so much about culture that other programs might not. Living with the community in pairs and exploring in groups enables you to experience a nearly fully immersed experience. I learned so much about regenerative farming practices and the organizations in Panama that are working to implement these technologies. AMIGOS also has so many different options. From long programs to short ones and from Costa Rica to Panama, AMIGOS has at least one program that will interest you!

I entered this project with an array of cheerleaders: Krista, Charlotte, Dorothy, and Mateo ('23 alumni). Their support was the reason why I continued with the application process, and I must say, it was worth it. The nine weeks I spent in Costa Rica were the most liberating and life-changing experiences. Not only did I learn more about Costa Rican culture, but also the meaning of how to love and live in the moment—pura vida. These lessons are some that I will forever cherish, and aim to use in my everyday life as a form of inspiration.

I loved going to Costa Rica over the summer through the La Pezeta program with AMIGOS. Although I was apprehensive of staying with a host family when I don't speak any Spanish and have never taken a Spanish class before, it worked out great and my host mom was super accomodating. I would just recommend doing some lessons on Duolingo before you leave. Additionally, not having a phone provided a great break from normal life and helped me immerse myself in the community. It truly is unique in providing a local experience rather than the typical tourist experience. It was one of the most fun times of my life, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone who's considering going.

I had an amazing time on my trip. The other volunteers and my host family were so awesome and I really enjoyed getting to know them. It wasn’t as much Spanish as I expected, which I was disappointed about, but I was glad to have the opportunity to use my knowledge with my host family. The staff was great when I had any sort of minor medical trouble. They were at times uptight and not trusting of us. Whenever we went walking we would have to be single file or in a pair as though we were little children unable to walk in the road. That felt diminutive but otherwise the trip was great!

My daughter participated in both the Chimborazo, Ecuador program and the Costa Rica program with AMIGOS International. She helped with a Sea Turtle program, built a trail, harvested potatoes, helped build a greenhouse, learned about the local ecosystem and indigenous cultures, helped cook local recipes with her host family, milked a cow, practiced her Spanish, and made many new friends. For parents who want their child to gain cultural awareness, practice a second language, improve their self confidence, and participate in community service, AMIGOS makes sure youth can do this safely, with appropriate supervision, and at a reasonable cost. AMIGOS provides pre-trip training for youth, has staff available for any questions or concerns, and helps students with fundraising for their trip.
AMIGOS has been sending students overseas for many decades so they know how to run a great program.