Frequently asked questions

How do we use the fee?
The fees for the programs cover: a payment to the families and the communities for receiving volunteers, we donate materials to the schools, a part of the staff costs at the hacienda, the upkeep of the facilities, transport and food. A small part helps cover the costs of administration and office overheads and the remainder is used to help maintain the FBU and its rural development activities. In this way, every cent of the fee is put to good use to help the people of these communities. The FBU is a non profit NGO.

What do the families gain from the project?
Naturally we pay the families for each volunteer that stays in their household. This money covers the cost of food and also provides them with an additional source of income. They also gain the benefit of your culture and customs as well as the extra pair of hands.

Is this a genuine organization?
Yes it is, and you can find independent details about us at the following links:

The proposal for our project in Intag funded by the United Nations can found at http://www.undp.org.ec/ppd/proy/ficha_03.htm

Also the University of Minnesota offers an internship through the foundation. The link to their web page is http://www.umabroad.umn.edu/programs/gep/ecuador/Ecuador-MN003.html

Equally a Google search on "FBU Ecuador" will find many independent notices about us, and you can always contact former volunteers.

Can I spend time in more than one community (Pedro Moncayo, Intag, Columbe or Puyo)?
Unfortunately this is not possible unless you intend to spend more than one month with us. In this case we can arrange for you to spend the additional time in whichever community you desire. You will find that one month will pass very quickly whilst you are learning new things each day.

Do I need money when I am in the community?
Your fee covers all food and accommodation costs whilst working in the communities. However, if you want to buy any additional treats, or if you intend to travel at week-ends you will need some additional money. We recommend that you don't take excessive quantities of money into the community.

What is there to do at night?
You will be living in rural areas, hence you can spend the evenings enjoying the tranquility of the country nights, passing time with the family, talking and swapping stories. It maybe there is a fiesta at the week-end and naturally you will be able participate.

Are the communities safe places?
The people in these communities are extremely friendly and relaxed. You should not experience any problems, though be wary of the fiestas when the campesinos can drink a great deal of liquor and naturally emotions rise. It is safe to walk alone at night. Regarding possessions, the families are all honest people, however don't lead them to temptation by leaving large quantities of money or expensive cameras around, remember they have only a small income.

What is the diet like?
The food in the communities is quite basic and varies substantially between the different areas. The diet is often vegetarian, consisting of potatoes or yucca, some vegetables or salad, grains, and rice, but there will be meat, such as beef, chicken, fish, pork or the local delicacy cuy (guinea pig!).

Are there water shortages?
Generally no. Water is taken from the surrounding slopes and there is sufficient to wash and cook with. We have projects in place for the conservation of some these water sources.

When and where do the programs start?

Each program starts on Monday morning at the hacienda Picalquí.

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