portoviejo, ecuador
Located on the eastern bank of the Portoviejo River in the Pacific lowlands of Western Ecuador, Portoviejo is the commercial and political hub of the Manabí Province. The fertile areas of the Portoviejo River valley allow for the successful cultivation of a variety of produce, including coffee, onions, peppers, tomatoes, mangoes, bananas and other exotic tropical fruits. In addition to being the economic center for local agriculture and the timber industry, commercial activities in Portoviejo include the manufacture of pillows and mattresses filled with kapok – a type of cotton obtained from the seed pods of the Ceiba pentandra tree.
La Metropolitan Cathedral of Portoviejo, Ecuador
volunteer partnerships
hogar de belen
Hogar de Belén originated in 1997 near a prison to house the children who were living with their incarcerated parents. Currently, this orphanage functions as a temporary home for children and adolescents who live in an at-risk home, as deemed by the government. The goal of the orphanage is to help these children and adolescents regain their self esteem and health in order to regain a sense of normalcy. With support through donations and partial funding from the government, the orphanage provides the children with the aid of psychologists, social workers and attorneys.
Damien house
Damien House is a residential hospital located in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Damien House exists to provide care and help dispel the stigma of those affected by Hansen's Disease (Leprosy). Run on private donations, Damien House provides round the clock care for over 30 in-house residents and free medical care for over 700 outpatients. Those who live at Damien House are unable to live independently due to complications from the disease or because the stigma prevents them from returning home.
where we stay
hotel oro verde
With a blend of European hotel experience and Ecuadorian service, this hotel is the perfect example of Ecuadorian hospitality for over 30 years. We stay here the first night we arrive on our trip, and the last night before heading back home. They provide a free shuttle service to and from the airport, as well as complimentary breakfast.
hotel principado
Located in the traditional residential area of Portoviejo, this is where we stay for the duration of the trip. This warm and welcoming hotel will provide a home for us, feed us wonderful meals and extend the warmest hospitality. Mostly single rooms with a bathroom and refrigerator. You will quickly feel at home!