The House of Volunteers
The Martha Estrella Foundation has transformed the former Martha Estrella's family home into the The House of Volunteers to receive volunteers and interns who are willing to collaborate in the different programs sponsored by the foundation.
We offer a very safe and familiar environment for the volunteers, to ensure they have a very positive and unforgettable experience.
We offer each volunteer a private room* and private bathroom*, as well as home meals* prepared by "Ms. Lupita", who has been cooking for Martha Estrella's family for more than a decade.
The House of Volunteers is located in the downtown area of Machachi, Ecuador.
* Fee for accomodation and food is required to cover costs.
About Machachi
Located in a fertile valley an hour south of Quito, capital of Ecuador, Machachi is surrounded by Andes Peaks including Cotopaxi, Illiniza, Ruminahui, Pasachoa, and Corazon. The small town has been famous for its mineral water, springs and swimming pools. Guitig, a nationally bottled water, is produced here.
Machachi is home to the Chagra, Ecuador's version of the cowboy. These proud men dress in chaps and boots have extraordinary horse handling skills. The town's main celebration July 24th each year hosts a series of competitions for the Chagra, the local version of a rodeo. It lasts for several days with parades and roundups. As in many of the small towns the celebration includes Toro's Popular a local version of a bullfight.