Volunteer in South America Grad Trip

I am graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in June and then will embark on a trip in South America for two months after a month-long program in Peru through my university (finishing my degree requirements). I hope to travel to Bolivia, Colmbia, Ecuador - and my biggest goal for this trip is not to merely backpack around and see sights for myself, but to volunteer and make a difference in the lives of others. I have always been involved in philanthropy and have a passion for helping others.

I want to spend at least two weeks volunteering either at Merazonia working with abused animals or Escuela Katitawa volunteering with children, both are in Ecuador. I have been involved in volunteer organizations here in the US and want to make a difference abroad, and I feel that this will be the chance of a lifetime and will help me decide on my next steps for life. 

I ask that if you were considering a graduation gift for this landmark in my life that you consider donating to this trip. The way that I am planning on keeping costs down is overland travel in buses, which will be time consuming. Any money raised in this fundraiser will be directed to volunteer efforts, including airfare so I have more time to volunteer instead of looking at the landscape through a bus window. 

I did a rough search and flights from Lima to Ecuador today seem to range from $300 - $800 USD. Two weeks volunteering will be around $240 USD. Any funds that I receive that are beyond the costs for the program I choose and flights will be donated to the organization. 

I will send postcards to everyone with each place that I visit, and will also be blogging about my adventures. Thank you so much for reading!