Small village - big impact

Can’t speak for the Quito program, but Santa Elena was incredible. It is in a small village, Ballenita, located right on the seashore. The local nonprofit has a nice apartment like building that has their office and the residences. A nice courtyard provides a great meeting place for volunteers. The school is mere blocks away and students live in the neighborhood, and call out “hello teacher” as you walk around town. The school is a bit chaotic, but it felt easy to slide right in and teach. I feel their resources are few so you’re really appreciated by the teachers and students.