The Hester J. Hodgdon Libraries for All Foundation is involved in a number of service learning programs drawing people from all walks of life and from all over the world. Our service learning opportunities allow groups to participate in projects to improve community development and form lasting connections with members of these communities. Each program follows a volunteer tourism model that is a balance between service work and exploring the beautiful country of Nicaragua. Take a look at some of these exciting programs and contact us to bring your own group.
University Credit Courses
Find out about our international university credit course partnerships.
Volunteer Service Learning Trips
Learn about volunteer service learning opportunities for families and school children.
Global Responsibility Internship Program
Learn about our GRIP travel abroad program.
Church Mission Trips
Find out about church mission trips to San Juan del Sur and other rural communities in Nicaragua.
On December 5, 2022 the State Department issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel to Nicaragua due to limited healthcare availability and arbitrary enforcement of laws. Exercise increased caution in Nicaragua due to crime, and wrongful detentions.
Please Note: While there is a level 3 travel advisory in the country, there have been no incidents involving foreigners. Many groups are venturing back to assist in the programs so needed in this second poorest country in the hemisphere. We support the return and are delighted to continue with our service learning events. Several groups have returned and there are plans for more in the year to come. If you are considering a mission or service-learning trip you are needed now more than ever.
Service learning, study abroad and mission team programs supported by the HJH Foundation :
Colorado Association of Libraries, Librarians Adventure Tour: November 2022
RACHEL Project Tour: August 2022
Hodgson Family Service Learning Trip: January-February, 2022
Altenhofen Family Service Learning Trip: July 2022
Book Delivery Trips: June 2021 and June 2022 (Volunteers board airplanes and make treks across the border to bring Spanish books by the ton via suitcases for where there is no postal option!)
3D Printing Training Course Project: October 2021
Union Church Mission Group: 2014, 2016, 2018, 2020
Council Tree Covenant Church / Ameya Mission Team Program: 2009-2017, 2020
VOSH International Service to Humanity Program: 2008-2017, 2020
University of Maryland 3D Printer Course Program: 2019
Colorado Association of Libraries ILCE-IG Literacy Grant Workshop Tour: 2019
Global Responsibility Internship Program: 2017-2018
Colorado Association of Libraries ILCE-IG Tour: 2015
Grovesport Ohio First Baptist Church Mission Team: 2014, 2016
Grovesport Ohio First Baptist Church Soccer Mission Team: 2013, 2015
Newton – San Juan del Sur Sister City Project: 2004-2016
SAGE: Studies Abroad for Global Education: 2013-2016
University of Maryland, Robert H. Smith School of Business, Study Abroad Course: 2012-2015
Lincoln IB Middle School: 2009-2012
Lasell College Global Community Service Program: 2008-2013
Lincoln IB Middle School: 2009-2012
Lasell College Global Community Service Program: 2008-2013
Simmons College, Shoulder to Shoulder Service Learning Study Abroad Program: 2005-2011
University of Maryland iSchool Study Abroad Course: 2009-2011
