Of course, this blog is for you, the reader. We hope you learned about what it’s like to be a volunteer in Latin America, felt more confident to take that first step, found some opportunities, were inspired to have your own adventures, didn’t feel bored and more. Thanks so much for following along.

So what’s in store for 2010? Well, for one, we’ll be adding 14 writers to the roster. The new bloggers range from a Kiva Fellow in Bolvia to a volunteer empowering girls in Costa Rica to a co-coordinator of a nonprofit in Mexico, just to name a few.

We’ll also be incorporating more good ideas from around Latin America, and will be adding two new regular features: one that highlights the work of photojournalists traveling around the continent and another that showcases local perspectives.

As always, we welcome guest writers to submit an entry or two from time to time. So if you have a great story or resource you would like to share, please let us know.

Thanks again for reading, and see you in 2010. Feliz Año Nuevo!

Holiday Festivities

End of year holiday events, like fundraisers and luncheons, are a great way to make contacts. You will probably run into people  you don’t normally get a chance to see: the directors of your foundation, family members, friends, donors/sponsors, related organizations, etc…

Coming Back Next Year?

Many organizations assume your stay is temporary, and very unlikely to last into the following the year. Make sure to be vocal if you plan on staying so you remain in their plans.

Teaching English

I got a chance to try out teaching English this year and there is a good possibility I will continue  in 2010. While I don’t think I would ever want to pursue it as a full-time career, it’s  good to know that if I were ever to find myself in dire financial straits, I could teach English if I absolutely had to.

Language/Spanish

I have met people who have been in South America for over two years and still can barely speak the language. In most of Latin America, there are plenty of enablers (e.g. aspiring or native English speakers) that can deter your learning efforts. If learning Spanish is an important goal, be aware. Looking to attend Spanish school in Bogotá? For about $160/month, Universidad Pedagogica and Universidad Nacional offer courses at all levels.

Blogging

In addition to being a new volunteer in South America, I was new to blogging. Personally, writing helps me to become aware of things that I normally wouldn’t without arranging my thoughts. I have also gotten a few emails from people regarding visas and volunteer opportunities in Bogotá. I look forward to continuing in 2010. Some things that I plan on doing and sharing:

*Getting a visa (finally)

*Obtaining an ID card

*Setting up a Colombian bank account

I am hoping with more experience living and volunteering in Colombia, my posts will help encourage more people to get involved.