When we first started this idea of WWOOFing there was a response of mixed reactions. Quite a few people we know have done it, most of their stories were positive and some not-so-much. Michael and I were aware that our situation might be a bit different since we are traveling with Xylia, as opposed to just the 2 of us. Our needs maybe a little more specific, safety, security, comforts, etc. We also were warned that communication with said farms may not be easy...they may or may not respond to your emails, leaving you with many questions. The Helpx.net site we found has seem to eliminate that.
Contrary to what we were anticipating, we've had such a positive response from people in South America. We have begun the process of reaching our to farms, or other properties we are interested in volunteering with. Some ...ok all of them are so inviting, I wanted to share a few of the places we will be visiting!
Meet Neverland Farm...located in Villacamba Ecuador. They are a biodynamic farm and sustainable living center. It is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out kind of place...but they have a burro that will come and help (awesome!), and we are tickled that there is a bicycle washing machine (super awesome!!!).
Escuela Minga
this is Escuela Minga...it's an organization that helps to support school children in the rural highlands of the Ecuadorian Andes. We can all help with the children in english, math, or whatever is needed. They have their first graduating class of high school-ers this year!
just sharing 2 for now...but we also have plans to stay and work at an ashram in Quito when we first arrive, and another Bhakti farm - permaculture center called Saraswati Ahimsa Vana...this place is gorgeous...in the Amazonian basin, jungle paradise!
Ahhh...just South American dreams for now...counting down the days!
Pilar! I am so happy you guys are doing this! I am WWOOFING this summer in Europe so when someone told me what you were doing I had a feeling it was through WWOOF! Can't wait to read your blog and see all the amazing adventures you will have. Peace and Love in the Divine Mother. xo Sita
ReplyDeleteJAI MA!
Sita Ma!! Thank you...yes we are so excited! Sounds like you have adventures coming up too! Where will you be WWOOfing this summer? We found that the Helpx.net site was a bit better or more developed in the way of its user reviews and that it also shows you when a host has longed on last, and their activity...thus eliminating farms or properties that are no longer running. It also is a space for organizations that are not under the organic farm flag. So we were able to connect with an ashram, schools, as well as organic farms. It also is an international site that you pay for once as opposed to WWOOF, where you have to pay for each individual country. I highly recommend checking it out.
ReplyDeleteSita...blessings and love to you always. I know that wherever we are on this web of life, Ma has us connected.
...pilar
JAI MA!
This is sooo cool. I hope there will be some way to keep this blog going while you're gone. So we can hear about the journey. Way to make your dreams come true!! Love, Jamie
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