locations
at a glance
As an OSSO volunteer, your main service is to help meet the emotional needs of children and youth living in orphanages. These children have their basic needs met by the orphanage (food, shelter, clothing, etc.), however, what they most often lack in is love. This is where YOU come in!
OSSO volunteers help fill in the role that orphaned children are often missing - parents, older siblings, mentors, and friends. As a volunteer, your job is to help each child receive the individual love and attention they need to truly thrive. While this might seem like a big task, the volunteer service itself is typically very simple! The smallest actions often have the greatest impact on a child’s life - such as a smile, a hug, or even just remembering their name.
Tepoztlán, Mexico
Welcome to Tepoztlán – a colorful, historic town tucked in the mountains of central Mexico, just outside of Mexico City. You’ll fall in love with the warm culture, vibrant markets, and breathtaking views of the cliffs and greenery that surround the valley.
As a volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to serve children in need and make a lasting impact through daily hands-on service. In your free time, you can hike to the famous Tepozteco pyramid, stroll the cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops, or taste traditional Mexican food like tacos al pastor. You’ll also enjoy fun group activities with fellow volunteers. OSSO is excited to expand its service to Mexico, partnering with local orphanages to give volunteers another unique opportunity to serve abroad.
If you’re looking for a meaningful experience full of culture, service, and adventure – Tepoztlán is for you!
Quito, Ecuador
Welcome to Quito - the capitol of Ecuador! Quito is one of South America’s top destinations - you’ll see why when you’re there! Quito is an incredible historic city located high in the Andes Mountains, near the equator.
As a volunteer, you’ll have the life-changing opportunity to care for children living in orphanages and make a real impact on their lives. During your free time, you can explore Quito and eat at delicious cafes, visit the local cathedrals, and go souvenir shopping at the artisan markets - and don’t forget the weekly group activities!
OSSO has partnered with orphanages in Quito since 2001. If you’re looking for a meaningful volunteer abroad experience with a well-established nonprofit - Quito is for you!
Cuenca, Ecuador
Welcome to Cuenca - a small, historic city nestled high in the Andes Mountains in the southern end of Ecuador. You’ll love living amongst the green picturesque mountains, colonial architecture, and cobblestone streets. As a volunteer , you’ll have the opportunity to serve in several different orphanages and work with children of all ages! During your free time, you can explore Cuenca and eat at delicious cafes, visit the local cathedrals, and go souvenir shopping at the artisan markets - and don’t forget the
weekly group activities!
OSSO has partnered with orphanages in Cuenca and provided volunteer abroad opportunities here since 1999!
If you’re looking for a meaningful volunteer abroad experience with a well-established nonprofit - Cuenca is for you!
Ready to go? Apply now!
learn more about the orphanges we support
OSSO supporters
OSSO is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization aligned with the principles, teachings, and values of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; however, OSSO is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Church. While primarily a member-created organization, volunteer opportunities are open to people of all faiths who are willing to follow OSSO's code of conduct. Our Statement of Faith
Photos on this website are used with permission and follow Ecuador’s privacy policies for children in orphanages.
OSSO is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization aligned with the principles, teachings, and values of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; however, OSSO is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Church. While primarily a member-created organization, volunteer opportunities are open to people of all faiths who are willing to follow OSSO's code of conduct.
Our Statement of Faith
Photos on this website are used with permission and follow Ecuador’s privacy policies for children in orphanages.