The HELP International program in El Salvador began in 2000 and is our longest running program. Participants live in the country's capital, San Salvador. Most of the volunteer work in El Salvador is centered on fighting urban poverty. Participants in El Salvador have been involved in projects ranging from orphanage work, serving in hospitals, teaching square-foot gardening, rebuilding homes in rural villages, holding business seminars, and teaching English. While Spanish fluency is preferred, participate do not have to speak Spanish to work in El Salvador.

Country Description: El Salvador is located on the west coast of Central America and is about the size of Massachusetts. El Salvador is known for its beautiful beaches, colonial structures and ruins, as well as its mountainous landscapes. The majority of Salvadorians are Roman Catholic, and many local holidays are dedicated to celebrating saints. Spanish is the official language of El Salvador. Most of the country is economically supported by agriculture, with coffee as the main crop. The people of El Salvador are its best resource. They are direct, friendly and usually willing to chat or help you out if you are lost.