Beaverton, OR – SEE Turtles is growing its unique Volunteer Matching Program by adding new conservation partners and turtle nesting sites. Our organization helps to connect volunteers with community-based sea turtle volunteer projects in Latin America at no cost and now we are adding new options for anyone who wants to use their time and energy to help protect endangered sea turtles. Our program now matches volunteers with 15 local conservation organizations in 7 countries including Mexico, Costa Rica, and elsewhere.
“Volunteering with a sea turtle conservation project is hard work but those who have a good attitude and desire to help can have a life-changing experience”, says Brad Nahill, SEE Turtles Director and Co-Founder.
To celebrate this expansion, SEE Turtles is holding a contest to win an all-expenses paid volunteer experience with WIDECAST Costa Rica’s Osa In-Water Project. One lucky winner will spend a week working with WIDECAST staff helping to catch and study endangered hawksbill and green turtles in the Golfo Dulce. The prize includes covering up to $700 in airfare and daily living expenses. Entrants must send in an application to enter and finalists will participate in a Facebook contest to determine the winner. Contest is open to US residents, ages 18 and up, and some restrictions apply.
Launched in 2009, the SEE Turtles Volunteer Matching Program has connected more than 100 volunteers who have completed more than 1,000 work shifts, primarily at turtle nesting beaches. Volunteers help local researchers patrol turtle nesting beaches, collect data on turtles, and protect the eggs by moving them to protected hatcheries. Volunteers do not need to have a background in biology or speak Spanish to participate but are required to cover travel and living expenses, which range from US $15 - $50 per day for food and lodging. In addition, we also help connect qualified applicants with research assistant programs, where daily living costs including food and lodging are covered.
Full information on the contest and application instructions can be found at: http://www.seeturtles.org/3056/volunteer-contest.html