ViviendasLeón

"All around, a top-notch organization in the U.S. and Nicaragua. You have built a fantastic program that has a clear impact on all involved. I had a rewarding, enriching time."
Tom Wadbrook, high school teacher, Drew School, March 2007

ViviendasLeon is an international development non-profit organization headquartered in San Francisco, California and Leon, Nicaragua. We offer high school and college students a unique and transformative experience that combines travel and service in Nicaragua. By participating in community development projects, students who travel with VL build a deep connection to the place and its people, and return with a deeper awareness of and commitment to being a true global citizen.

The foundation of the program is daily work alongside community members on an authentic development project such as the construction of a school, a project that supports education, the cornerstone of development and lasting change.

"It was an experience of a lifetime. Not only was the construction work rewarding, but integrating yourself and learning about an entirely new culture is an incredible experience. Everyday you learn more about Nicaragua and the people, and you gain a connection to the history and the culture there. I loved it."
Danyal, high school student, Summer 2004, 2006

Learn more about VL from the people who've traveled with us

Certainly we felt that [our son] was well watched over - and yet he came home with a sense of independence and autonomy. What seems best to us about the program is your ability to combine and balance these different elements: involvement with and contribution to the community, learning about the culture, history and politics of Nicaragua, relaxation and fun, and giving the kids a sense of both safety and independence.
Parent of Zach, high school student, summer 2006

This is education at its very best and most effective. The world is gradually changed in long-term ways through this kind of program.
W.Doug Gallagher, Director of Music, Sonoma Academy, January 2008