Argentina is the most visited country in South America, thanks to an elegant national capital, a lively, refined culture, and extreme geographical beauty. The nation's vast and varied terrain stretches from the spectacular tropical waterfalls of Iguazú on the Brazilian border to the frosty town of Ushuaia in southern Tierra del Fuego. In between are countless towns, cities, and rural regions each with its own unique brand of appeal. The second largest country in South America, Argentina is home to nearly 38 million people.
Program Location: Buenos Aires
The capital of the largest Spanish-speaking country on the continent, Buenos Aires is a bustling city of over 9 million people. Its French architecture, Italian heritage, and general cultural sophistication give it an elegant feel, earning it the nickname "The Paris of South America." This cosmopolitan city has much of what you'd expect of a national capital: headquarters of international and national companies, several colleges and universities, and a variety of social and entertainment options.
Program Location: Salta
Surrounded by fertile valleys and 16,000-foot volcanoes, the city of Salta is located in one of Argentina's most scenic regions. The city is known as “La Linda” (the beautiful) for its picturesque plazas, colonial Spanish architecture, and spectacular natural surroundings. Salta is also home to the largest indigenous population in Argentina. In fact, Salta bears more resemblance to areas of Peru and Bolivia than it does to the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires, which makes it ideal for exploring indigenous culture in Argentina.
Why Volunteer in Argentina?
Although historically a prosperous nation, Argentina has faced severe economic struggles in the last decade. These difficult financial times have led to a large disparity between rich and poor and to a host of newfound social problems. Even Argentineans who were once part of a solid middle class now live in poverty, with limited access to education, heath care, and profitable employment. Both the poor, indigenous region of Salta and the sophisticated, cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires are home to impoverished citizens, residents with limited access to healthcare and education, as well as malnourished and neglected children.
Fortunately, with the help of volunteers from around the globe, our partner organizations in Argentina are gradually improving the lives of hundreds of local residents. Their services promote youth and adult education, provide recreational activities for children, train adults in job skills, and help secure profitable employment for local workers. Volunteers and service learning participants in Argentina will help bridge the gap for these residents, with the hopes of creating more successful futures for all citizens.
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