Salinas Salesian Family Foundation
Committed to Our Community
history of the Organization
The Salinas Salesian Family Foundation was born from the idea of supporting the pastoral work carried out for more than 50 years by Fr. Antonio Polo as representative of the Salesian Mission in Salinas. "San Francisco Javier" north of Bolívar province and of the Salesian Society in Ecuador.
The objective of the Foundation is aimed at providing social and pastoral services to the vulnerable population of Salinas and its communities, through the creation of various productive activities to generate employment, including tourism and others focused on improving the educational quality, having as main reference the preventive system.
A community productive
The Fundación Familia Salesiana Salinas has several productive activities for the self-financing of its social work, such as the confectionery factory (production of cocoa paste, peanut and macadamia nougat, mortiño jam, chocolates in different presentations and flavors), the factory of Essential Oils (infusions, ointments, essential oils from different plants, shampoo, among others); experimental workshop on processed foods (soybeans and their derivatives, native fruit jams, candies, noodles, cookies, delicacies, etc.).
know our Main office
The administrative offices of the Fundación Familia Salesiana Salinas are located in the parish of Salinas, in the Guaranda canton of the Province of Bolívar.
The address is on Calle al Calvario s/n and Samilagua.
Join the social impact Your volunteering starts here
Fábrica deshidratadora
The El Salinerito Corporation has been a cornerstone of the community, contributing to the social, economic, and cultural well-being of various populations. As part of our mission to transform lives and promote the comprehensive development of our community, we have designed an inclusive volunteer program that seeks to engage citizens in building a more just, equitable, and compassionate society.
This program offers various opportunities for those who wish to make a meaningful contribution to improving the quality of life for those in need, focusing on key areas such as medicine, education, art, dance, and the empowerment of women and youth. Through active and selfless participation, volunteers will have the chance to make a real impact on the lives of others while enriching their own personal and professional growth.
Below, we outline the different areas of the volunteer program and the opportunities available for those who wish to join this cause.
Volunteers are provided accommodation with a host family or in a hotel. Staying with a local family you will experience the local culture, Salinas customs and the Ecuadorian way of life. Volunteers stay in shared rooms with other volunteers. The accommodations are clean and comfortable, access to WiFi, hot shower.
What are you paying for?
- Comprehensive pre-daparture guide.
- Assistance from support staff and incountry program coordination.
- Airport pickup from Guayaquil's airport.
- Orientation and walking city tour.
- Accommodation a homestay private bedroom or in a share bedroom in a hotel.
- Placement Project in Salinas de Guaranda.
- Meals at the accomodation from Monday to Friday.
- Transportation and tour guide.
- Entrance ticket and workshop cost (afternoon activities from Monday to Friday).
What is NOT included?
- International Airfare.
- Travel Insurance.
- Vaccinations.
- Any other ersonal expenses.
- Meals on Saturday and Sundays.
Living room
When you choose to volunteer with us, just pack your bags, arrive and let us take everything, airport transfers, stay, meals, and tours. All you have to do is being there.
Orientation
A half day orientation will be provided by our local coordinators. Areas like culture, locations, transportation, safety and volunteer placements are given during the orientation.
Meals
Volunteers are provided with three cooked meals a day from (Monday-Friday). Meals vary from day to day and generally include soups, vegetable salad, rice, potatoes, juice, etc.
During your free time
Volunteers are free to visit and see places or do shopping during their free time.
Medical Volunteer Program
The main goal of the medical volunteer program is to improve access to healthcare in vulnerable communities by providing support in clinics, hospitals, and health promotion activities. Volunteers in this program will participate in tasks such as patient support, organization of health campaigns, and assistance with health education activities.
Activities
- Patient Support: Volunteers will assist patients during medical visits, facilitating communication between patients and healthcare professionals. They will also provide emotional support, especially for those facing chronic or severe illnesses.
- Prevention Campaigns: Participation in awareness campaigns on common diseases, infection prevention, and promotion of healthy habits.
- Support in Clinics and Hospitals: Volunteers will assist in organizing and managing resources within healthcare facilities, working with medical and administrative staff to ensure efficient and orderly service delivery.
- Educational Talks: Collaboration in delivering educational sessions on basic medical topics, hygiene, mental health, and disease prevention.
Requirements:
- Basic or intermediate training in medicine, nursing, psychology, or related fields (volunteers without professional training are welcome, with a commitment to undergo training).
- Commitment to health work ethics and respect for patients' rights.
Volunteer Program in Education for Children
This program aims to improve the educational quality of children in vulnerable situations, providing them with tools for academic, emotional, and social development. Volunteers will work closely with children, assisting in their schoolwork and offering activities that foster creativity and learning.
Activities
- Academic Support: Helping children with school assignments and projects, focusing on subjects such as mathematics, language, science, and reading.
- Skills Workshops: Organizing workshops to develop non-academic skills, such as conflict resolution, teamwork, and effective communication.
- Extracurricular Activities: Organizing recreational activities, such as sports, games, and crafts, to promote teamwork and social skills.
- Emotional Guidance: Providing emotional support to help children cope with family, school, or personal difficulties, offering a safe space for expression and reflection.
Requirements:
- Basic training in education, pedagogy, or related fields.
- Positive attitude and patience to work with children and youth.
Volunteer Program in Art and Dance
This program seeks to foster creative expression, especially for those without access to cultural resources. Through art and dance, volunteers will help strengthen participants' self-esteem, offering them a means of escape, enjoyment, and personal growth.
Activities
- Art Workshops: Organizing workshops in painting, sculpture, photography, and other forms of artistic expression, allowing participants to explore their creativity while developing technical and artistic skills.
- Dance Classes: Offering dance classes in various styles and techniques, from contemporary dance to folk dance, focusing on both technique and the development of confidence and body expression.
- Exhibitions and Performances: Helping organize art and dance exhibitions and performances, giving participants the chance to showcase their skills to the community and reinforcing their sense of belonging and pride.
- Community Projects: Collaborating on community mural projects or cultural events that integrate various art and dance forms into the local context.
Requirements:
- Knowledge or experience in an artistic or dance discipline.
- Creativity and the ability to work with people of different ages and cultural backgrounds.
. Women and Youth Empowerment Program
This program aims to provide women and youth with the tools they need to become agents of change in their communities. Empowerment will be achieved through training activities, leadership development, job skills workshops, and the creation of support networks.
Activities
- Leadership Workshops: Facilitating workshops that promote leadership among women and youth, encouraging them to make informed decisions and actively participate in their community.
- Job Skills Training: Offering practical workshops on skills like resume writing, job interview preparation, negotiation, and entrepreneurship.
- Support Networks: Forming support and mentoring groups where women and youth can share experiences, receive advice and motivation, and build valuable connections for personal and professional growth.
- Awareness Activities: Organizing talks and educational events on topics like gender equality, sexual and reproductive health, and human rights, promoting informed and responsible decision-making.
- Empowerment Events: Celebrating participants achievements through events that recognize their efforts, boosting their self-esteem and motivation.
Requirements:
- Experience in social work, psychology, community development, or related fields.
- Commitment to women's rights and gender equality.
Opportunities for International Volunteers
The El Salinerito Corporation also offers international volunteer opportunities, allowing people from around the world to join our causes. International volunteers can participate in the programs described above, as well as in specific projects addressing global needs such as environmental sustainability, infrastructure development, and strengthening healthcare systems in rural communities.
Requirements:
- Interest in working on social and community development projects.
- Adaptability and willingness to work in a culturally diverse environment.
Itinerary
Day 1
(day)
Arrival in Ecuador
Our coordinator will be there at Guayaquil's airport to (bring you to ?) the accommodation. There will be an Orientation (meeting might be better) Session at (to choose) so try to take a flight that arrives in the morning.
Day 2
(Monday)
Introduction
You will be volunteering at the program of your choice from 8 to 12pm. Workshop at the Chocolate Factory El Salinerito. Learn how to make chocolate from zero.
Day 3
(Tuesday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12pm. In the afternoon, tour to Laguna de los Sueños and Farrallones de Tiagua and El Calvario.
Day 4
(Wednesday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. In the afternoon, tour The Cheese Factories.
Day 5
(Thursday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. In the afternoon, tour to The Museum Yuyay and to the salt wáter spring.
Day 6
(Friday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. Tour to the Thread and Textile Factory.
Day 7 and 8
(Saturday and Sunday)
Days off
Tour to the waterfall, to the brown sugar factory, hiking and camping at the Chasojuan Community.
Day 9
(Monday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. Tour to the Factory of dehydrated mushrooms, fruits and plants.
Day 10
(Tuesday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. Tour the Yurauksha community to observe local crafts and the manufacture of sausages made from llama meat.
Day 11
(Wednesday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. Tour to the soccer ball factory and to the natural oil factory.
Day 12
(Thursday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. Tour to observe the sunset.
Day 13
(Friday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. Tour to the soy derivatives factory.
Day 14
(Saturday and Sunday)
Departure
Farewell tour and dropped off at the airport.
Cost $ 1.200 USD
Products of our Social Enterprises
Part of the contribution of the Fundación Familia Salesiana Salinas is the social enterprises: Confites el Salinerito, Essential Oils and Alisalinas. Each one of them represents an opportunity for growth due to the opportunities it offers to the members of the community that are part of them.
Sweets El Salinerito
Cocoa-based products such as chocolate bars; dragees of almonds, raisins, uvilla and coffee; chocolates and nougats.
Essential oils
Essential oils of pine, cypress, eucalyptus, lemon verbena, palo santo, etc. In combination of several aromatic and medicinal plants.
AliSalinas
Products made from soy by-products, soy milk delicacy, cookies, candied soy and jams with native fruits.
Creating Positive Impact Social Projects
The Gruppo Salinas, through the Salinas Salesian Family Foundation, carries out social projects in different areas. The main idea is to cover different areas related to the needs of the communities of Salinas de Guaranda.
