Sinsicap Service Learning Program in Peru, 2010

Sinsicap Service Learning Program in Peru

July 6 – August 10, 2012

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Program Description : The Sinsicap Service-Learning Program is a 5 week long volunteer project on the north coast of Peru with the non-profit organization, MOCHE Inc. Project volunteers will work with members of the community of Collambay, a rural agricultural community in the Sinsicap Valley. This unique program enables volunteers to participate in all facets of MOCHE's mission - sustainable development for communities and the preservation of Peru's rich cultural heritage. MOCHE has been working with the community of Collambay since 2010. Community projects over the 5 week period include latrine construction for individual families, conducting the 1st public health survey in the region, working with the local Elementary school teaching classes on health education, English, and about Peru's cultural heritage! Volunteers will then participate in an archaeological excavation for the final 2 weeks of the project! Saturdays we will have guided tours of world famous local archaeological and cultural sites such as Chan Chan and Huaca de la Luna. Sundays are free days to enjoy the beach, play soccer, or explore Trujillo.


Location: The program is based in Simbal, a quaint colonial town, located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains. Students live at a hostel in town, just off the Plaza de Armas and will commute daily to the pueblo of Collambay.

MOCHE, Inc: MOCHE is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving archaeological sites and helping poor communities in Peru. It was founded in 2007 by Brian Billman and Jesus Briceño. Combined they have over 50 years of archaeological experience in Peru. Their goal is to create 10 community-based archaeological reserves in the Moche Valley in the next 10 years. MOCHE partners with local communities and assists them in development projects and the creation of archaeological reserves.

Costs: $2,120* covers all lodging, 3 meals a day, 6 days a week, orientation and educational workshops, guided tours, supplies for development projects, transportation Huanchaco-Simbal-Collambay, and all site and museum entrance fees.

Application: Enrollment is open to anyone over the age of 18. There are no prerequisites; Spanish is not required. Space is limited to 12 students.

Deadline: March 20, 2012; if not filled by this date we will continue to take applications.

For Applications and Information:

* The quoted cost is based on prices and exchange rates as of January 2010. The costs and details of the program itinerary are subject to change.

Student volunteers speak with a woman A day in the Sinsicap Valley: Students with the Sinsicap Service Learning Program speak with a community member to collect public health data MOCHE logo