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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
This link is to Tufts University following their visit to help install a biogas unit here;
http://www.tuftsgloballeadership.org/programs/ewb/projects/creating-a-model-green-building-hacienda-picalqui-tabacundo-northern-sierra-ec
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, or Columbe)?
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. 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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