GIS Data Collection Volunteers | Cusco, Peru

A small NGO located in Calca, Peru called the Andean Alliance for Sustainable Development has volunteer summer positions for a GIS project that they are currently working on. Calca is about a 30-45 minute drive from Cusco.

Indigenous communities in the Andes are culturally, economically, climatically diverse. Disparities between communities are high due to geographic location. More remote and isolated communities have less access to goods, information, health care and quality education. While one community has cell phone, Internet, and health care access another community will have none of these and their connection to the outside world is only linked by the monthly arrival of a truck selling and purchasing goods.

Local governments have abundant data concerning the livelihoods of diverse communities. This data has the power to affect policy on a national and local level to improve the living standards of Peru’s most invisible and impoverished populations.  However, this information exists in a latent state because local entities are unable to communicate this data effectively. Collecting, maintaining, and analyzing this data using a GIS platform could empower and allow governments, local leaders and social change organizations to communicate visually and geographically how isolation and remoteness impact poverty and opportunities in the Andes. The power to communicate complex information can change the way government addresses development and allow them to make informed decisions based on data they already have.

The AASD is leading an initiative utilizing GIS technology to harness the power of datain order to demonstrate geospatially, the impact of isolation and remoteness on levels of education, malnutrition, and health.  The AASD is looking for volunteers to collect data in indigenous communities. Initially, we will track walking trails throughout the region. This information will allow us to measure the distances and routes taken by students going to school, farmers to their fields, and mothers to health clinics.

Requirements:

1. Spanish language abilities: beginner to intermediate
2. Knowledge and experience using GPS data collection equipment.
3. Great physical health: Ability to hike hours at very high altitudes up to 15,000ft.
4. Motivated hard working individuals who see the value in collecting data to support indigenous people in the area.
5. Volunteers can apply for a minimum 2 week and maximum 6 week program

Please note: As the GIS project is constantly evolving, the outlined project and activities may vary to adapt with initiative…

For more information please contact Aaron Ebner at taebner@gmail.com or Jim Valenza at jim.valenza@gmail.com

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