Smile Therapy: Children’s Hospital – Cochabamba, Bolivia

SUPPORT HOSPITALIZED CHILDREN TO IMPROVE THEIR
EMOTIONAL AND PHYSICAL STATE THROUGH JOY.

Activities

• Just a few blocks from the main volunteer house is the “Manuel Ascencio Villarroel” Children’s Hospital, the main point of reference for almost all families in the Cochabamba department.
• In coordination with those in charge of the Pediatrics, Infectious Diseases, Oncology, and Burns wards, volunteers will have the chance to share fun, joyful, playful time with the many children and teens hospitalized in the public hospital.
• An essential opportunity to remind the children and their families that, despite the difficulties, they’re not alone, and that through a smile it’s possible to face any situation and ease the pain of the moment.

A volunteer’s day to day

The volunteers sharing the experience with you come from all over the world and are very different people. But sharing such a profound experience gives the volunteer hostel a warm atmosphere of companionship and friendship that you feel the moment you land. It’s something close, something special. So, among friends, your day starts with breakfast before heading to your project, where you’ll be welcomed with open arms, since volunteers are highly valued and loved in Bolivia.
When you finish, you’ll return to the volunteer house, where you’ll have lunch, and in the afternoons you’ll have free time to explore the city or do cultural immersion activities.
And on weekends… free to rest, or to travel!

This is the trip we offer you… are you really going to put it off?

Accommodation and meals

The accommodation option in Cochabamba is a Volunteer House, sharing a room between two people, or — for an additional cost — choosing a single room, with basic amenities.
Meals include breakfast and lunch; dinner is arranged by each volunteer, but don’t worry, because food is inexpensive and you can cook your own dinner each night with other volunteers.
That way you can organize different dinners together, where everyone brings their own food culture and you’ll discover new flavors and local cuisine.
Each volunteer will be in direct contact with the project coordinator to ensure you have the information you need, so your stay is as pleasant as possible and you experience a cultural exchange with the other volunteers (local and international).

The facilities include:

•  Shared room (maximum 4 people; single room available at an additional cost).
•  Communal kitchen.
•  Pantry to store your food.
•  Shared Western-style bathroom with toilet and shower.
• Hot and cold water.
• Filtered water.
• Wi-Fi.

What to see in Cochabamba

It’s a vibrant city full of history, located in the inter-Andean valleys of central Bolivia. Known as the “heart of South America,” it offers pleasant weather (mild and dry, with sunny days
and cool nights, making it an ideal destination to visit any time of year) and a rich mix of cultures and customs inherited from its Quechua and Aymara ancestors. Its
people are kind and welcoming, and its cuisine won’t leave you indifferent, as it’s nationally renowned for its diversity and flavor, with standout dishes such as silpancho, pique macho, and ají de
gallina (chicken stew).

Cristo de la Concordia: An imposing religious monument with panoramic views of the city. Going up by cable car is an unforgettable experience.
14 de Septiembre Square: The heart of the city, surrounded by historic buildings and lively urban life.
Santa Teresa Convent Museum: A former convent that is now a museum where you can learn about the city’s religious history.
Traditional markets: You can’t miss the markets of Cochabamba, where you’ll find a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, meats, and handmade products.
Torotoro National Park: If you’re looking for adventure, this park is an excellent option. It offers a wide variety of activities such as hiking, rappelling, and caving.

•  You’ll work at the Manuel Ascencio Villarroel Children’s Hospital.
•  The program starts and ends in the city of Cochabamba.
•  Project duration: as long as you want… (minimum 2 weeks).
•  Arrival date: Friday or Saturday, your choice.
•  Working days: 15:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday.

The program includes.

•  Personal pickup at Jorge Wilstermann Airport in Cochabamba and transfer to your accommodation.
•  Orientation and training about Cochabamba, local customs, and the project you’ll be taking part in.
•  Accommodation in the Volunteer Hostel.
•  Daily transportation to the project and back to the volunteer house.
•  Two meals a day / five days a week.
•  Support in Cochabamba and a permanent local coordinator 24/7, every day of the week.
•  Administrative costs.
•  Transfer to Jorge Wilstermann airport at the end of your volunteer program.
•  Certified €200 contribution to the CiENViDAS project.
•  International Volunteering Certificate from the CiENViDAS Foundation.

The program does not include.

•  Flight.
•  Travel and medical insurance. (*)
•  SIM card: highly recommended and affordable. We’ll help you get one.
•  TRAVEL INSURANCE: you must take out travel and medical insurance for your peace of mind. Or, if you prefer, we can offer our special insurance for volunteers, with coverage for cancelación, por un importe aprox. de 80€ (2 weeks).

You can deduct 100% of the program cost on your next tax return (in Spain).

Spots are limited, so don’t miss this chance to take a trip with real impact.

Don’t wait — spots are limited.

• Prior training: No prior experience required — just enthusiasm and commitment!
• Minimum age: Be 18 years old at the start of the program. If you are a minor, you’ll need to present consent signed by your parents or guardians.
• Required documents:
  • Résumé (CV).
  • Completed pre-registration form.
  • Criminal background check up to date.
• Attitude: An adventurous, caring spirit and a real desire to learn, help, and make the most of this unique experience.

This program is designed for people who want to transform lives while immersing themselves in an enriching culture.