Imanalla!

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Welcome to the SUMAK KAWSAY YACHAY (SKY) Foundation, where education intertwines with the beauty of our Indigenous heritage. Founded in 1996, our mission is rooted in nurturing the cultural richness and traditions of the Salasaca community through education and mutual learning.

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Volunteers play a crucial role in our foundation's journey. They engage in meaningful cultural exchanges, sharing their knowledge while immersing themselves in Salasaca's traditions.

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Activities include:

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• Teaching English: Classes cater to different age groups, fostering dynamic learning environments from Monday to Thursday at SKY's Katitawa school.

• Pachamama's Garden: Volunteers assist in gardening under the guidance of Francisca Masaquiza, who oversees the cultivation of a variety of essential vegetables like zucchinis, peppers, and potatoes for sustenance within our volunteer community.

• Community Maintenance: Every week, volunteers gather to deep clean Hosteria Pachamama, focusing on communal areas such as the kitchen, living room, communal bathrooms, terraces, and their bedrooms. Volunteers are expected to promptly clean the kitchen after use and ensure their bedrooms are tidy, including removing sheets before departure.

• Cultural Exchange: At the SKY Foundation, cultural exchange is at the heart of our mission. Long-term volunteers play a pivotal role in coordinating diverse activities that enrich both our community and their own experiences. They lead language classes, facilitate workshops, promote cultural awareness, and manage our social media channels.​ ​

• Community Work: Volunteers contribute to ongoing social and community projects. Recent efforts include constructing a home for a widow with three children and one grandchild. This work is intermittent, so if you're interested in participating, please inquire beforehand.

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​Volunteers experience rich interaction and immersion within the Indigenous community. They actively engage in local festivities and celebrations, such as baptisms and weddings. Volunteers are warmly invited to observe and participate in cultural traditions like weaving fajas, spinning yarn, and preparing traditional dishes such as colada morada, guinea pig with potatoes, and llapingachos. On special occasions, volunteers may even have the chance to wear traditional Salasaca clothing.​​

 

Accommodation

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There is no required minimum stay duration, but we prefer volunteers to consider staying for at least three weeks if possible. Whether you stay for a week or a year, we want you to enjoy your time with us. The SKY Foundation supports your decision to leave whenever you are ready. Volunteers reside together at Hosteria Pachamama, offering comfortable amenities including four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a spacious living room, and a fully equipped kitchen. Enjoy stunning views of the Chimborazo, Tungurahua, and Cotopaxi from our accommodation. 

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Cost

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A weekly fee of $50 supports the activities of the SUMAK KAWSAY YACHAY (SKY) Foundation. As a nonprofit organization, SKY relies on volunteers' fees and donations to sustain our initiatives. This contribution covers essential expenses including food, WiFi, gas, electricity, rent, water, and hot water. Volunteers also receive sheets, blankets, and three meals a day. Volunteers take charge of cooking and keeping the kitchen clean. Accommodation at Hosteria Pachamama provides a supportive environment with clear guidelines to ensure harmonious living.

During weekends, volunteers have the freedom to explore or stay at Pachamama. Many enjoy participating in Salasaca's festivals, celebrations, and organized trips. Feel free to ask us for recommendations on local attractions or activities.

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Join us at SUMAK KAWSAY YACHAY and experience the warmth of our community, celebrate our festivals, and embrace the opportunity to learn and grow together. Your journey with SKY begins here!

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