The Tandana Foundation

The Tandana Foundation builds relationships and uplifts communities in ways that transcend the organization itself. By highlighting the assets of the people who are already in the community, Tandana provides solutions to challenges without creating power struggles and us/them mentalities. Additionally, Tandana does an excellent job of organizing volunteer groups and making them feel safe, welcome, and comfortable, all while learning about the beautiful Ecuadorian way of life. If you are looking for an opportunity to make a positive impact while also being positively impacted yourself, Tandana is a great organization to collaborate with.

The Tandana Foundation creates memories! The work Tandana is doing in Ecuador is second to none. When you travel with Tandana, you receive instantaneous memories, gratification, and a sense of giving. The tasks are hard and tiring but at the end of the day all you can do is smile and feel the warmth of knowing you have helped!

I recommend joining The Tandana Foundation for the next opportunity. You will not be disappointed.

This was the perfect combination of serving indigenous communities and being a tourist! After spending a week in Otavalo, Ecuador, I feel like I have a much better understanding of the surrounding communities and I met a lot of great people. I highly recommend supporting the Tandana Foundation!

Super organized and productive. Great people. Top notch experience.

I went on this journey with my brother who had gone on two Tandana Trips With Intention. My son-in-law also joined us. Working with the people of Ecuador was an amazing experience. The staff of Tandana were there for all of our needs. I intend to try hard to attend again.

The Tandana Foundation works with the communities in Otavalo Ecuador to meet their needs! The community members come and help us do the work for their benefit. Working together builds relationships and an investment within their community. During my current trip we worked in 2 communities building a water system where at least one member from each family came to help and we also painted classrooms with the students parents/grandparent. This is a very rewarding experience. A lot of fun, fellowship and cultural immersion!

My recent service-learning experience in the Andean highlands outside Otavalo, Ecuador, with The Ohio State University Master Gardeners and The Tandana Foundation was nothing short of transformative. The journey offered a unique blend of hands-on horticultural work, cultural engagement, and learning about another biome.
We were part of a group of about 16 people, and the trip was flawlessly organized. Upon our arrival, we were given a thorough orientation by our experienced, first-aid trained guides, Omar and Kuri, who kept a vigilant eye on our safety and well-being throughout the trip. The guides’ care and attention helped ensure that we were all comfortable and secure while navigating a new environment.
Our primary project focused on Community & Neighborhood Development. We worked alongside local community groups to assist a school in clearing land and planting for a vegetable garden. The goal of the garden was twofold: to serve as both an educational tool for the students and a food resource for the community. We used non-power tools to clear the space, a deeply meaningful task that reminded us of the importance of sustainable farming methods in this region.
The cultural interaction was equally enriching. Throughout the week, we had numerous opportunities to learn about the local Kichwa culture, including cooking lessons, harvesting techniques, and medicinal herb use. We also participated in activities like games, dance, and weaving—each experience giving us a deeper connection to the local customs and practices. The hospitality of the Kichwa community was heartwarming. The school children greeted us daily with hugs and smiles, making us feel like part of their extended family. Their enthusiastic presentations at both the welcome and farewell ceremonies moved many of us to tears, reinforcing the deep bond we had created during the week.
One of the highlights of our experience was the delicious, home-cooked lunches provided by the students' parents every day. The food was plentiful, fresh, and full of love, a true testament to the community's generosity.
The week concluded with a beautiful reflection ceremony, where we shared our takeaways, personal stories, and the new friendships we had formed. It was a perfect way to encapsulate the emotional and cultural journey we had been on. The sense of accomplishment, connection, and gratitude I felt after this experience is something I will carry with me for years to come.
I highly recommend this type of experience to anyone looking to broaden their horizons, deepen their understanding of global cultures, and contribute meaningfully to a community in need.

I recently returned from a volunteer trip to Ecuador with the Ohio State University Master Gardener's Program and Tandana Foundation. I can definitively say it was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the warmth and hospitality of both the Tandana team (Omar and Kuri) and the local community members.

The trip was well organized, balancing volunteer work with cultural immersion. Our main project involved working at a local school alongside parents of the children, removing grass for a garden bed and planting vegetables. Tandana emphasized collaboration and respect, ensuring that we were contributing in a meaningful way rather than imposing solutions.

What truly set this experience apart from other volunteer trips I've participated in, was the cultural exchange. We shared meals with local families and learned about the indigenous Kichwa culture. These interactions fostered a deep connection with the people and the place.

This trip combined the perfect balance of volunteer work, building relationships, learning and growing. I left Ecuador not only with cherished memories but also with a renewed sense of purpose and global awareness. I highly recommend this experience to anyone seeking meaningful travel and to opportunity to make a positive impact.

What an incredible experience! Tandana organized a fantastic trip that blended meaningful work at a local school with an enriching cultural experience in the beautiful town of Otavalo, Ecuador. We had the privilege of working alongside the warm and welcoming Kichwa community to plant a fruit and vegetable garden for the children at Carabuela school. Our afternoons were filled with immersion in traditional dress, local cuisine, and engaging social interactions. I’m truly grateful for the chance to not only learn about a different culture but also contribute to their efforts in teaching children how to grow and harvest their own garden.

I participated in a trip to Ecuador as an Ohio State University Master Gardener volunteer. We worked with community members at a school to plant a substantial vegetable garden that will be used to educate and feed students and their families. The experience was life-changing. Engaging with local residents and being immersed in the beautiful landscape reminded me of the value of family, community, and nature.

Tandana provided a life-changing experience and allowed us to connect directly with community members, schools, and families in a positive way

Staying with The Tandana Foundation was an unforgettable experience. The trip leaders were incredibly warm and welcoming, creating an environment where our group felt both comfortable and safe. Their flexibility in adapting to volunteer needs ensured that everyone could contribute meaningfully, making our time there both impactful and rewarding.

Beyond the volunteer work, the organization provided a perfect balance of cultural immersion and community engagement. We experienced both the highlights of the region and the authentic rhythms of daily life, offering a deeper understanding of the people we served. I am truly grateful for their efforts and would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking to make a difference.

Tandana is a beacon of compassion and education. While volunteering with with Tandana I learned about culture, people, food and sustainable practices. The host of the group created a memorable and pleasurable experience while we worked with the people in the communities. I am looking forward to helping out in the near future!

The Master Gardeners of Ohio counties gathered in Otavalo this past January, 2024 for a one week learning adventure. The experience was above and beyond what we were anticipating. Not only did we work together with the community in creating beautiful gardens/fields, but we came together as a whole in, not only learning and loving a different culture, but enjoying every minute of our time together. We all came away from this week with a renewed outlook on how best to live our own lives, thanks to the community members we worked with in Otavalo. Thank you!

The Tandana Foundation organized an amazing opportunity for the Ohio Master Gardener Volunteers! All around great experience!!

I have been on many Tandana Foundation Trips to Ecuador, but this one was special. We worked at Tangali School for most of the time, planting trees, veggies, and herbs building on the work of other groups of Tandana volunteers who had spent 2 weeks clearing brush and digging holes . That made our job easier and is often a trait of Tandana projects- work with the community first to find out their desires and then work with US volunteers to provide what we can while they provide what they can to complete the project. We did more than plant trees and seeds, we planted hope for the parents that their children will have food and the vision of a brighter well-fed future for the students. Working together, we helped everyone realize we are all of the same family no matter our backgrounds, but each of us had skills, strengths, and friendship to share to make a big difference in the lives, relationships and the environment.

My volunteer trip with Tandana foundation to Ecuador in January 2024 was probably the best travel experience I have ever had. It was well planned, well organized and wonderfully executed. The hotel accommodations, transportation, food, the volunteer work and cultural activities were above my expectations. The entire Tandana team was a pleasure two work with kind caring andwell organized. Getting to work with and interact with the local Ecuadorians and indigenous people of the Ande's mountains was an enlightening and heart warming experience.

The Tandana Foundation listens to the communities they aim to serve, and acts based on what the communities say they need. It’s a breath of fresh air to see a foundation listen before acting. All of their projects are based on what community members have proposed to them. The founder, Anna Taft, has strong connections with many of the people in the communities she works with, and it’s clear she holds a lot of care for what she does. I had a great time learning about Ecuador and staying with a host family through Tandana, and hope to do it again!

Writing on behalf of our church in Hawaii that has supported The Tandana Foundation for nearly 10 years. Since beginning our partnership, we have helped to fund two fresh water wells in Africa, supported Ecuadorian scholarships for students pursuing higher education, school gardens in Africa, and have helped launch five women-owned businesses in Africa (completing in 2023.) We love receiving photos and updates of the projects as they progress, and we share them with our congregation as often as we can. The Tandana staff and local teams in Africa and Ecuador are doing an outstanding job working alongside community members to better their villages and lives.

I just love what The Tandana Foundation is doing. It's so refreshing to find a non-profit that actually SHOWS you where your money is going, and provides updates along the way even. My husband and I have donated a couple different times to smaller projects and have utterly loved seeing our donations get put to use for the projects we specified. You don't find that very often which is why we will continue to support The Tandana team!

Tandana's goals and accomplishments are solid and amazing. I have great confidence in their ability to turn my donation into life-changing action for people in Ecuador and Mali. I find it very exciting to know that they bring groups in to witness and assist in their projects.

I keep reading their activity reports and I participated in a fundraising event. they have such powerful and impactful projects. Plus, their results are far beyond expectations.

For me and my mother, who went on a Tandana gardening trip to Ecuador, Tandana became our Guardian Angels. Our trip was well organized and everything was going great. The trip of a lifetime. My mother fell and Tandana was with us from the first moment until after we got back home. They had a team in place to help us with everything. I would absolutely travel with with foundation again. What a rewarding trip.

I attended a trip to Ecuador through the Tandana Foundation. It was an amazing trip! The work to learning ratio was great. We worked with local students in their school gardens and we got to interact, visit and experience local culture every day while on the trip. Tandana is a great organization that really helps folks in Ecuador.

Our Master Gardener Volunteer trip to Ecuador with The Tandana Foundation was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Tandana was fantastic to work with and prepared us well for our journey. There was nothing we wanted for during our stay. One of our volunteers fell and broke her leg during a cultural activity and Tandana stepped up to ensure she was well cared for and that the rest of the group could still enjoy their time in Ecuador. Tandana even secured a place for her to stay during recovery as she was unable to fly back with the rest of the group. Simply fantastic, would recommend to all and am looking forward to working with Tandana again.

What a great opportunity to not only see fabulous sites, but more importantly to be part of the lives of fabulous people. I had the good fortune to meet many of the Tandana support recipients who work so hard to improve not only their lives but the lives of their communities. What a beautiful people. I would go back in a heartbeat. I came away from this with new friends and family, including the Tandana staff.

The Tandana Foundation prepares amd presents an incredible volunteer and cultural tour. I have taken 11 groups on these tours and all have come back thrilled with the trip.

Master Gardeners from Ohio participated in week long service experience assisting the indigenous people to come closer to being self sustainable. It was an awesome experience to get dirty with students, teachers, and family members to prepare and plant several beds of soil. The people were so grateful and appreciated the help we provided. The Master gardeners were able to learn the traditions of the various communities, talk with the youth and families, and in many cases shared a meal with them. We also built strong relationships with our own Master Gardeners which most we did not know before the trip. Our reflection ceremony demonstrated how awesome the experience was with Tandana.

I volunteered remotely with Tandana as an ESL teacher for the past 7 months, working with a university student from Ecuador, who eventually plans to take the B2 exams. We met weekly for one hour of classes, in which we focused on conversational and writing skills.

What I appreciated and think Tandana does well is the support it offers its volunteers. Once a month, the Program Coordinator Nicole would meet with all the ESL volunteers to check in on how our classes were going, what support we needed, how our students were progressing etc. She would also sit in to observe our classes twice a month and share feedback with us afterwards. I appreciated the suggestions that helped me adapt my classes to make them more interactive, and found this form of support to be concrete given that everything was taking place virtually.

Tandana also demonstrates in practice its values of supporting sustainable community development and promoting intercultural learning by encouraging students and volunteers to share their cultures and languages. As an ESL teacher, I felt that every class was an opportunity to learn more about Ecuadorean culture, because I encouraged my student to write about Ecuadorean traditions, foods, places in the country. We would also spend a few minutes at the end of each class conversing in Spanish, which allowed me to practice the language and helped us build rapport. Offering volunteers the chance to have a virtual host family also showed Tandana’s commitment to building bridges and encouraging volunteers to be immersed in the culture of the community they work with.

Working with the Tandana Foundation has been an amazing experience for our school. The process has helped all of us have a greater understanding of what it truly means to help others. During our cultural exchange with Ecuador, we scheduled Zoom meetings and simply talked with each other. It is amazing what can be learned through conversation. Our cultural exchange culminated with a successful collaborative fundraising process that has truly changed the lives of all who were involved.

Thank you Tandana Foundation!

I have throughly enjoyed working with Tandana! I have worked with them for over a year and it has been a joy to share some of my knowledge about my culture with students and learning more about Ecuadorian culture in exchange! My time with Tandana has truly been a memorable experience, and I hope to continue working with them in the future.

Tandana hosted an incredible virtual experience for our students last year! Not only was it interesting and engaging, with a virtual guest from Ecuador who taught us a game to play, it was also very hands on and delicious because we were able to make a traditional Ecuadorian drink! I look forward to interacting with Tandana in the future!!

I worked with Tandana to create a virtual service learning experience for my 8th grade students. This was a week-long virtual "trip" where the students learned so much about the Kichwa otavalo people in Ecuador thanks to Tandana. They are professional, communicative, and enjoyable to work with and I would recommend them to anyone looking for an enriching and educational cultural exchange experience.

The Tandana Foundation has provided me an irreplaceable opportunity to meet students on the other side of the world while also developing a deeper understanding of the best ways to build philanthropic relationships. As a student, I was privileged with the opportunity to raise funds for the Ulpiano Navarro school in Ecuador and receive an education around Ecuadorian culture. The donations I helped raise went toward repairs for the school and a new bike rack for the students. The whole process was incredibly fulfilling! I hope that more classes at my school and more schools in general will work with The Tandana Foundation and give this experience to other students too.

We loved working with The Tandana Foundation over the past two years. The experience was culturally rich, engaging and so meaningful for our students and staff! I hope to continue to bridge the relationships with our students in the years to come!

It was an amazing experience that this foundation was able to provide!!

Tandana has been a joy to work with! As a teacher, I've worked with Tandana to build a cultural exchange with two schools in Ecuador over the last two years. From the top down I have been so grateful for the incredible opportunities and personal connections we've been able to build. Tandana embodies the best in building cultural connections that lead support and community based systems that celebrate the communities they work with.

The folks at Tandana were really fabulous in creating a partnership with the 10th graders at my high school, who got involved in a cultural exchange and philanthropy project with Ecuadorian students. Thanks to the leadership, flexibility, and innovative ideas of Tandana's staff, my students learned a lot from the exchange and developed a meaningful relationship with the students in Ecuador. We also learned a great deal about the best practices of philanthropy as well as becoming responsible, global citizens.

I spent a semester teaching English with The Tandana Foundation. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Tandana puts an incredible amount of thought and dedication into all of its programs and always puts the needs of communities at the forefront of everything they do. I am grateful to have volunteered with Tandana and have no doubt the organization will continue to do meaningful and significant work.

The Tandana Foundation is a unique organization in that it holds community needs above all else. The Ecuador team is always looking for new opportunities to support community partners in reaching their goals. During the pandemic the Foundation has continued supporting local partners by providing medical supplies and masks and offering virtual learning opportunities to scholarship students such as English lessons, an entrepreneurship workshop, and remote exchanges with US students. Additionally, they have created online events and exchanges that showcase community members' traditions, knowledge, and skills. The Foundation has done a great job of adapting to the difficult circumstances during the last year and has embraced the opportunity to expand into remote programming.

I work at Tandana as the social media specialist! Ive done marketing, social work, and volunteer work internationally. However, Tandana is one organization that has significantly impacted me. I appreciate their mission to address global inequalities through caring intercultural relationships.

The Tandana Foundation is unique in that it looks to empower local indigenous communities to enact the change necessary for its members to lead better lives rather than imposing what it believes would be best. The community members collaborate with one another to determine what needs must be addressed, what resources will be necessary, and how can they can carry out local projects. Tandana steps in to aid in the provision of those resources and strategizing when appropriate. This method is effective a great deal because Tandana has become a part of the community: there is a deep understanding the community's people, values, and aspirations.

As a volunteer for a week-long trip, I learned to focus on more than just the work at hand. I became familiar with the history behind the community's culture, the lives of those living there, and the significance behind what aspects of their life that I participated in. Simultaneously, I was developing cross-cultural and intergenerational relationships that would allow me to understand and appreciate the work of Tandana. Since attending a service trip under the guidance of Tandana a year ago, I have carried the experience with me as a reminder to constantly seek understanding with those that I interact with. It is necessary in order to create meaningful relationships, know how to help others, and understand oneself to a greater extent.

I've been volunteering as an ESL tutor with the Tandana Foundation for several months. It has been such a great experience. The people I get to work with - other ESL tutors, my supervisors, and my students - are incredibly supportive and kind. Tandana seriously cares about the people they serve.

I have seen first-hand the important work that Tandana is accomplishing in Ecuador, transforming the lives of indigenous young people through education, health care and community water projects. It would be impossible to overstate the value of this support to impoverished local communities.

Working and getting to know the team of Tandana was a true privilege. As their storytelling intern, I was and continue to be inspired by the stories of the community they and their partners have built through hard work and the fostering of meaningful and multicultural relationships. Even remotely, there's much to learn from Tandana. I am grateful for their guidance, an incomparable experience and the connections made; and I hope to be able to join them in person one day!

I worked with Tandana for two months as a volunteer English teacher. The Tandana team were fantastic to work with and I thoroughly appreciated every aspect of my experience with them.

I have loved working as a virtual English as a Second Language intern for the Tandana Foundation. Tandana is truly committed to being socially responsible with their cultural exchange programs, and I have learned so much from working with the team. I am so grateful for this opportunity and highly recommend Tandana to anyone!

I recently started with the Tandana Foundation as a remote ESL tutor and it's been a wonderful experience! The team at Tandana is very supportive and encouraging, and are there to support me whenever I need it. This experience has helped me form a cultural connection with my Ecuadorian students and host family and has been a great way to push me out of my comfort zone with practicing my Spanish-speaking skills. I strongly recommend helping out with Tandana!

I had the opportunity to intern with Tandana in Ecuador under their Patient Follow-Up program. The chance to work for an organization whose actions are guided by their organic and genuine values both refreshed and challenged me in a wonderful way. Looking back on my time in Panecillo, I feel peace as I recall the kindness I was shown and the time I spent outside in the mountains.

I interned as the IT Specialist for Tandana in the Winter of 2016. Since then, I have stayed on board to help them with any tech needs or questions that they may have. They are an extremely kind and hard-working group of professionals who work WITH the locals in the areas that they visit to bring about improvements and services that the local community leaders deem most vital.

When working with Tandana, I felt not only welcomed into a family of kind-hearted and intelligent individuals but also that my efforts in aiding them were creating real change for the communities that we worked in. I developed genuine, long-lasting relationships with the people that I met both from the states and from the communities that I visited/volunteered in. I can't state enough how unique Tandana is in their approach to find out what people need from their own mouths and how satisfying it is to work WITH the people you visit doing work that's valuable to them.

I learned a lot from just a short time working with Tandana and I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a volunteer experience that is packed with fun, "type 2" fun (not fun at the moment but fun looking back), and the development of genuine relationships with kind people from all over the world.

The Tandana foundation does remarkable work near the village in which I live in the highlands of Ecuador. I recently had the wonderful opportunity to volunteer with them and then a later opportunity to work as a professional medical interpreter with one of their medical delegations. I am impressed with their organization, with their connection with the communities they serve, with the listening stance they employ, so that community leaders and participants are heard. I’ve worked with many volunteer “mission“ trips, student groups, and faculty development delegations to developing countries. Tandana is different because of the consistent follow-up that they give to the patients into the communities. They recently worked to help bring water to a small village, following the leader ship of the local people. I cannot say enough good about this organization. They are worthy of support.

I have helped The Tandana Foundation with online graphic design resources for a few years. The organization is relentless in their desire to help communities in Mali and Ecuador on several fronts. They roll up their sleeves and help in the areas of healthcare, education, income generation, water resources, women's rights and community infrastructure. They break through barriers of un-trusting locals by meeting them at their level and building trust with tangible results.

My thank you to the Tandana Foundation for making available the opportunity to visit Ecuador, early February 2020. I was one of 16 master gardener volunteers who traveled from Ohio to work on a project at an agricultural high school. The project began with a group of strangers receiving a seemingly overwhelming assignment. The completion of the project resulted in the beautiful landscaping of the schools' entry road with almost 400 plants. We shared lunches as shy students and volunteers alike were exposed to each others smiles, studies, culture, foods, families and communities.
The itinerary was well rounded. Each day was different and packed with exhilarating experiences that allowed intimate insight into the lives of an indigenous people. The group of 16 strangers that started the week ended up as friends. Each days work and activity somehow fostered a cohesion. We looked out for each other and tried to ensure each person was successful and comfortable at whatever job and task was at hand. Thank you Charlotte, Sarah, Nicole, and MaJo for your care. This trip was the best!

We partnered with Tandana for a gardening service-learning adventure and had the best experience ever. The project with local groups were well organized and of value to the community. The attention to detail for every aspect of the experience - travel, food, lodging, cultural experiences and work experiences were beyond expectations.

I would personally recommend working with and supporting Tandana.

Best regards,


Denise Johnson
Program Manager Master Gardener Volunteer Program
Ohio State University

I do not have the words to adequately express the wonderful experience I had this past week in Ecuador with Ohio Master Gardener Volunteers and Tandana. Maria Jose (Majo), Charlotte, Nicole and Sara went over and above all expectations to ensure that our experience was culturally rich, and fun. We worked hard and played hard and were sooo well fed. The hotel was very nice as well as convenient to markets, etc. All who served us were so willing to please, sweet and friendly.
And on top of all the planning, those girls ordered the most remarkable weather ever! Thanks so much! :-)

September of 2019 was the second time my husband and I participated with the Tandana Healthcare Vounteer Venture. We returned, because our first visit in 2016 fullfilled our expection of service through our medical and dental knowledge and our love of travel. What we hadn't anticipated was the level of understanding and appreciation we would gain as we worked with the Foundation and the Ecuadorian people. The Tandana Foundation has a respect and love of Ecuador that all of the volunteers share by the time we are boarding our planes home. The memories that I hold dear are the the smiles and laughter of the children playing in the communities while they waited their turn with the doctors and the dental team. Throughout the week it was a delight to have someone come forward to thank me with a smile and sometimes a handshake. The hardworking people of Ecuador and the opportunities offered by the dedicated people of the Tandana Foundation are resulting in healthier communities, and the educating of their children. With good health and an education they have the tools to continue the work in their country that the Tandana Foundation has begun.

I had the incredible opportunity to spend a summer working with Tandana through their Summer Internship program last year. I was able to live with an amazingly generous host family while spending my time teaching English and elective classes. When I wasn't working, I was able to spend time playing with my host siblings, learning how to harvest crops with my host dad, or exploring the market with my host mom as she explained traditional recipes. Tandana is truly integrated into the community it intends to serve, always asking what is needed before it assumes what is wanted. I was able to witness how the children and families genuinely enjoy the classes offered, and how the voices of the community always dictated how and which serviced were prioritized and provided. I would absolutely recommend Tandana to my friends and peers, and anyone ready and willing to try guinea pig!!

This nonprofit organization is fantastic and both my husband and I had one of the best experiences of our life while on a trip to Ecuador with this group. The organization was incredible but did not feel impersonal, the work was hard but felt very rewarding, the surroundings were beautiful and rustic but we also had every comfort that we needed, the schedule was full but there were a lot of interesting and unique experiences, the staff was trained and efficient but also very fun and friendly. In all, it was perfect and I would like other people to have the same incredible experience that we did.

I had the most wonderful experience with the Tandana Foundation. I visited as an undergraduate student with a group from my University. We served in the most stunning community in the Otavalo region where the food was delicious, the people were beyond welcoming, and the atmosphere was enlightening. I couldn't recommend more going on a trip with this organization. Their model of community engagement keeps the community's needs at the center of the trip and cultivates a spirit of cultural exchange between the two groups. I had difficulty leaving at the end of the week due to the strong bonds I had made with my group and with the community. I hope to return to Montilon Chupa and Ecuador at some point, hopefully with Tandana!

I attended a cultural exchange/volunteer vacation that was hosted by this organization in coordination with the Ohio Master Gardener Volunteers. I could not have been more impressed with the foundation's personnel and with the relationships they have with members of the indigenous communities in Imbabura province. The tour was extremely well organized and run. But it was the intimate knowledge, the care, and the delight in the communities and people demonstrated by our Tandana guides that impressed. It seemed obvious that the connections between the foundation and the communities is founded on many years of collaboration and respect. It did feel like visiting extended family where we were welcomed as guests, not tourists or do-gooders. Well Done .

I volunteered in Otavalo, Ecuador with master gardeners from Ohio. The Tandana members were very organized and kept our group on task, as well as providing us information on Tandana's accomplishments in the region.
Everyone in our group shared the same life-altering experiences during our week long trip. Tandana arranged for us to meet many different people in villages in and around Otavalo. I believe most had received Tandana's help and were very grateful/successful of course. The impact was huge for me to actually meet these people, rather than reading about it from the comfort of my living room. We really experienced their true culture during our stay.

I have been working with The Tandana Foundation for two years as an independent contractor and have also traveled to Ecuador to participate in volunteer activities with members of their staff and board. I have many years of experience working with nonprofit organizations that provide services to populations in low-income countries and can honestly say that the Tandana Foundation is one of the most authentic and collaborative organizations with which I have come into contact. From executive leadership to the board of directors and staff on the ground, all have the best interest in mind for the populations that they endeavor to assist in Ecuador and Mali. This genuine concern drives all organizational decisions and trickles down to everyone in their sphere of influence including donors, student and adult volunteers, school personnel, and collaborators in-country. I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with The Tandana Foundation and can't give it a high enough rating!

Working with Tandana and the many local Ecuadorians as a volunteer was the most enjoyable and fulfilling trip I have had in my life. My husband and I have traveled the world and this by far was the best adventure of them all.
The indigenous people we interacted with during the medical week were so
incredibly benefited by our care and they even made us lunch! The gardening week we enjoyed the wonderful out of doors while working side by side with the local families who regularly get together to work and improve their community.
This volunteer experience is a great way to use your skills to benefit others and
give yourself a great ,positive and highly enjoyable experience.

I’m on the board of Tandana, and I took a trip with Tandana on one of their healthcare volunteer vacations in Ecuador. The trip was incredible because Tandana has long-term relationships with local communities, so we were welcomed as friends of friends. I would strongly recommend taking a trip with Tandana!

Several years ago my Wife and I participated in a two week Tandana program to bring health services to those communities in the Ecuadorean mountains who requested those services. We brought medical, vision and dental supplies, medicines, eyeglasses and professional Doctors and Dentists. The mutual appreciation of and respect for each other was special. This was not "fancy" Americans telling the poor and needy how to take care of themselves but rather the proud Ecuadorean communities taking control of the life services their residents requested and sharing their culture. We came away very appreciative of that experience.

Because I believe in the manner in which Tandana respects their Ecuadorean and Mali friends and the resultant value both bring together, I have now joined Tandana's Board to help assure that the exceptional Mission of Tandana continues.

I run a nonprofit based in Southern California, and for the last few summers we've brought 30-35 students to Ecuador through a partnership with Tandana. Every year they exceed our expectations. They are incredibly gifted at weaving educational, cross-cultural experiences. The staff are always incredibly thoughtful and knowledgeable. I highly recommend the Tandana Foundation for anyone looking to really connect with another culture in an authentic and responsible way.

Working with Tandana was one of the most rewarding and meaningful experiences of my life. This foundation truly does important work, and the people that comprise this organization are some of the most genuine and compassionate people in the world. Before meeting them, I was not sure what we would be working on, but once we landed and were greeted at the airport by their smiling faces, I knew we were in good hands. If you have the opportunity to work with these amazing humans, do it.

Tandana Foundation approaches service by working WITH communities and allowing an exchange of service that imbues the entire experience with dignity and richness. We worked, danced, ate, baked, and played with members of the community in the Kichwa Otavalo tradition of rondi rondi (I give, you give).

The trust and love the Tandana staff have earned through their sensitive work is apparent. As we walked the streets of Otavalo, many people greeted them with obvious affection. We were warmly welcomed in the community in which we worked; it was obvious that the relationship between the community and Tandana was a long and loving one.

They are masters of logistics. The Ecuador trip I participated in was perfect: the work itself, transportation, food, lodging, recreation and education were excellent and perfectly executed.

The Tandana team worked beautifully with each other and integrated with our group in a way that enriched the experience; we created what I'm sure will be lifelong friendships.

Tandana has set the bar high for what service-learning can and should be. Their commitment to sustainable and community-based projects was what drew us to them initially, but our group's experience in Ecuador was far richer than we could have imagined. We worked and lived in intimate connection with a community whose trust in and respect for Tandana was reassuring; the staff's close connection and relationships with the community members helped us easily quickly establish connections with our hosts. Their knowledge of the cultures and communities in the areas enriched our trip. Their professionalism and passion really helped our group of students bond with the community and each other in ways we never could have foreseen. Highly recommend organizing a trip with them!

If you are looking for a non-profit to support or participate in...this is definitely one of the best. It is certainly the best I have ever experienced. Tandana Foundation is organized and managed by a group of people who are dedicated to developing lasting, authentic relationships with the indigenous people and volunteers. They are committed to meeting the needs of all to thrive and become more as individuals and as community members. If you go... I can assure you that you will have a life-changing experience.

Tandana grew organically through needs expressed and determined by the community. Focused in one region in Ecuador and solidly based on personal relationship, their commitment is to work with and along side the community from conception to completion. As a volunteer you will experience multiple facets of development, program design and delivery, cultural exchange, and a profound connection with the community in which you live and work. As a former, long-term volunteer, Tandana volunteer mentor, and a contracted program leader for the Foundation, I've witnessed the ever deepening relationship with the communities and reciprocal impact of their programs and projects.

Tandana is an amazing organization. I went on a week long trip to Ecuador with them. They truly meet the medical needs of the people they visit (who otherwise wouldn't be able to get to the city to receive medical care). If they find a person with a medical issue, they have a person in Ecuador who gets this patient to a local doctor and medicine in an ongoing treatment, instead of only being seen every 6 months when the medical volunteers come to the villages.
Tandana really cares about the people in the villages that they visit.

I have worked with the Tandana Foundation in Ecuador for several years. They have helped us put together great programs filled with cross-cultural learning and exchanges with our university students. The staff are incredibly dedicated, thoughtful, friendly, and committed to the local communities. I love working with them every year!

Each trip I go on to Ecuador with the Tandana Foundation , whether it is for a Health Care Volunteer Vacation or Gardening Volunteer Vacation, I always come back to the United States feeling enriched by the experience. Each one is different because the mix of volunteers and communities and projects are different, but each strengthens the international friendships we are making, deepens my admiration of the staff Tandana employs, and promotes sustainability at all levels. Individuals gain skills they would not have otherwise, communities realize long held dreams of infrastructure, and everyone is invested in the projects and positive results. Tandana teaches everyone how to fish. From a volunteer traveler point of view, the accommodations are excellent, the care that staff give you is remarkable, and the language, money, electricity, food, present no barrier to offering a helping hand to local people and really getting to know their culture.

I've been involved specifically with the medical trips to Ecuador with Tandana for the past 5 years and have been impressed with their overall organization, efficiency and continuous forward momentum for improvement. Despite it's relatively small size, it has made a massive and positive impact on the communities that it works with. As a medical provider who has worked with other international non-profits, it was (and continues to be) refreshing to not feel like I was being asked to work crazy long days in poor conditions without ever getting to know the surrounding community. It makes for a more rounded experience to not only provide medical care for a group of people, but to learn about their culture and customs. In addition, the staff that remains in Ecuador year round provides follow-up and ensures continuity of care after the volunteers leave. It's truly a wonderful organization to work with.

The Tandana Foundation takes care to connect program participants to meaningful and mutually beneficial efforts in the communities it serves.

A Foundation run by very enthusiastic individuals who have a passion for selfless service. Their integrity is incomparable, every dollar goes towards their mission of service. The philosophy of " teach how to fish " is very highly commendable.
The Medical Missions to remote villages in the Andes to serve the Native American population is very satisfying, I feel very proud of it.

I've been involved with Tandana since 2008. I cannot think of a better group of people to do this important work with. I was so inspired after my first trip that I've returned year after year forming long lasting friendships with folks in both Ecuador and Mali. I believe in what Tandana stands for and I've been inspired and have grown as a person (and professional) during my time involved with this foundation.

On every Tandana program, both participants and staff members receive a positive cross-cultural service and community building experience. The community members that we engage with and the projects that we support are incredible! I am so grateful that the Tandana Foundation exists in the world.

Going in as volunteer with the Tandana Foundation, you think that its just an internship that will give you experience for the future. What you don't realize is the kind of experience you are going to gain. Working with Tandana has been life changing for me. I have not only been able to live with and learn from a community in rural Ecuador, but I've been able to become a part of it. Between the family you live with and become a part of, to the support and love you get from the staff on a daily basis, you could not have asked for a better work and living environment. Every day, I learn something new, and every day I appreciate more and more everything this foundation has to offer.

Tandana is an incredible organization that works closely with those it serves to deliver sustainable programming and impressive results. As a volunteer with Tandana, you'll make friends, work on projects that are driven by the local community and get a whole new perspective of the world. Tandana staff have diverse backgrounds but are driven by a dedication and love for what they do!

I worked with the foundation for a week. I went in with many misgivings about what we would be doing and misconceptions about the nature of the foundation, and I couldn't have been more wrong. The foundation does good work educating participants and helping people to break down stereotypes, both in the communities they work in and in the communities they take participants from.

My week working with the Tandana Foundation at Guachinguero helped reveal to me the beautiful nature of humankind, re-instilling a hope for mutual existence of all humans if we allow our minds to expand and find common ground.

Organized, money gets put to good use. Went to Ecuador with them.
-Omar

I had a wonderful time both weeks - the medical clinic and the gardening, both. The indigenous families that we worked with were so welcoming and generous. They were patiend with us when there was a wait for docs or dentists in the clinic. We learned to send entire families to the docs at the same time; it was a helpful way to keep all informed.

For the gardening experience, it was great to work side by side with the local families. The
local women dug the holes for our many, many trees after their husbands machelied the brush in the area. Matias, the local expert, placed the trees where they needed to go and we planted them - a regular assembly line!

What a beautiful place we worked in for two days!. There was a sulpher springs and a cave area where the formations were gorgeous. The stream was full of bright orange clay with springs appearing in many areas nearby. Water, water, water...

This area is considered old and sacred by the indigenous families we know. They have just
been able recently to access it again after a government agency moved in. Exciting for them.

This foundation is one of the most caring and passionate non-profits I have ever worked with. They really allow you to see exactly what they do in the communities and give the opportunity to be hands-on with them! This is definitely a non-profit I could see myself working with for a very long time. The people are so nice and you can feel their genuine spirits. This foundation will open your eyes and humble you! I am so happy that I was able to share my experience in Ecuador with them! I didn't want to leave.

The Tandana Foundation in Ecuador facilitated an experience that I will always remember! UC to Ecuador 2016!

Tandana was far more than what I expected. It was an incredible experience, and I can't wait to participate again!

Everyone who works for this organization is amazing. They did an absolutely fantastic job coordinating volunteer opportunities for our group!

After taking early retirement last year, I signed up for two weeks on a medical service trip to highland Ecuador with the Tandana Foundation last month. This exceptional organization has been active in the northern sierra of Ecuador for much of the last decade, establishing ongoing partnerships with a number of indigenous villages and contributing to efforts identified by the local communities such as healthcare, education, small business development and horticulture. The other volunteer participants had very diverse backgrounds and interests, came from many different states and provinces, of all ages, and all came with a desire to be of service to others and to learn and to share. Rarely in a rather long life have I met such fine people who have become great friends so quickly as we shared such intense and rewarding experiences together. This group cohesion was only possible due to the long experience and constant efforts of the Tandana leadership and staff to provide the necessary support and logistics, while making these trips exciting and fun for the participants. The TF is extremely skilled at finding and developing exceptional staff to fulfill their stated mission, to make the experience safe and enjoyable for all the volunteers, and to foster deeper cultural awareness between the local communities and those who sign up for these trips.
Each morning we took a chartered bus to a village higher in the Andean highlands, where our volunteer group- both lay and medical providers- set up in the local school or community center. The physicians, PA, and dentists provided free medical and dental care to children and adults, some of whom needed to be referred to local facilities or were followed up later by TF staff. Our group also recorded vital signs, performed basic lab tests, did vision screening, provided reading glasses, and our mobile pharmacy provided medications prescribed by the PAs and physicians. We ate very well, had a wonderful place to stay in Otavalo, and the volunteers had opportunities for activities later in the day such as visits to a master weaver, a local shaman, a cooking school, a maker of musical instruments, and outings to see waterfalls and hike around alpine lakes. The first week our group had a great time one night dancing in costume in an annual parade in a local village. The second week we went on a boat tour around a beautiful reed-fringed lake at the foot of Imbabura volcano.
Before signing up for this trip, I had heard glowing reports from several physician and PA colleagues who had been Tandana volunteers in the past. They described the trips in terms such as "an experience that will change your life", "this will remind you why you went into medicine in the first place", "I came back from this trip a better person, with more compassion, than when I left". I found all of these reactions to be accurate and true to my own experience. You will know that your money was very well spent, that you will never forget the people you met and the people you worked with, and that you have seen firsthand some of the best work that we can do for each other in this world.

I am three days back from a health care volunteer trip to Ecuador with the Tandana Foundation. I am still trying to figure out why they are thanking us so much for our services when I feel it was I who was on the receiving end of this remarkable experience, the opportunity to be introduced to the indigenous people of the Ecuadorian Andes and their culture in a very unique and personal way. The Tandana staff were a delightful, exemplary group of young people, smart, organized, caring and fun, who every day went out of their way to make sure that the volunteers were well taken care of and that every day we were treated to additional educational programs, field trips and excellent meals! Our lodgings were beautiful and cozy with wonderful hospitality. I would recommend a trip with the Tandana Foundation to anyone with a sense of adventure wanting to make a difference in the world, community by community.

Tandana Foundation really excels in their attention to the volunteers that participate with them. They went the extra mile to assure our comfort, safety, enjoyment, and knowledge for the 7 day volunteer vacation I was part of based out of Otavalo, Ecuador. Their interns and long term volunteers were some of the most capable and professional I could have ever thought would be available to us for the projects. Tandana's focus on doing what the communities need and want to have happen vs. what outsiders think should happen is the true key making volunteer projects successful long term for all those involved.

I joined Tandana with 14 other like minded volunteers for a week of "Volunteer Garden vacation" in Ecuador. It was truly the most gratifying experience. We planted, worked in the school garden, taught composting to happy, bright eyed school kids. We cooked, ate, and worked with the locals, we were not just tourist clicking photos but participated and that is what made a big difference and the Tandana staff made it happen. The staff took care of our every need, we stayed in modern hotels, fed us well and were the nicest group of smart young people.
I wish Tandana founder Ann Taft, Director Hope Taft and staff all the best and thank-you for giving me a chance to give back.- Shyamala -Hope to participate again.

I went on a service trip through Northeastern University to work with Tandana in Otavolo, Ecuador. Anna and her team were incredibly helpful and considerate with volunteers and community members. The organization does great things by providing whatever service the community needs most and by facilitating genuine connection between volunteers and community members.

I had a life-changing experience on my trip to Ecuador through Tandana. I participated in a course that traveled abroad spring break to teach English in primary schools in Otavalo with my class. My experience was filled with cultural excursions, native interactions, and full immersion in the beautiful country. The Tandana staff was extremely personable and welcoming and I had an amazing time on my spring break alternative trip.

A wonderful trip with awesome guides and lovely people. We were given excellent previews of the languages and what to expect in each village. Safe and culturally educational. We were able to travel to views that no average tourist would ever see. We were able to help several villages with needed reforestation efforts. We had good quality time teaching school children in beautiful highland Ecuador.
Our meals and accommodations were super.

A few years ago I had an internship with Tandana for 9 months. Prior to that experience and after I have worked with 6 other NGO's in Latin America and the Caribbean but I would have to say Tandana does the best job of achieving its goal-- to create and nurture real and responsible relationships among people of different cultures. I typically like to spend a decent amount of time in any foreign place I visit because I feel you get more out of the experience if you really get to know a place rather than pass through on a quick visit. Somehow this doesn't seem to hold true with Tandana as they are able to provide volunteers with an incredible, authentic experience in no more than a week. I've never seen anything like it.

Working with The Tandana Foundation has given me an even deeper appreciation for the country of Ecuador. People's lives get changed for the better and the results are amazing. Not only the local villagers lives change but the volunteers and coordinators that are responsible for the work being done always leave with a profound experience and a different outlook on life. May The Tandana Foundation continue to grow and prosper in Ecuador and Mali!

I can't say enough about the great work that Tandana does. I have volunteered twice on medical volunteer vacations in Ecuador, and would do so again if the opportunity arises. The volunteer teams that I was a part of included both medical and non-medical volunteers, and as a non-medically trained volunteer myself I was able to participate as a team member and contribute to the project in important ways, and Tandana always takes great care of its volunteers. Seeing people in rural Andean communities receive medical treatment was a deeply rewarding experience, as was the opportunity to immerse myself in Ecuadorean culture. Tandana has roots in the communities where it works, which includes its founder as well as various past and present interns who join in on the projects, and as a result it has strong relationship with the people of the community. I would very much like to participate in another volunteer project in the future.

Tandana works with people on such a level that both the volunteers and community members are left with a good understanding of how human compassion spans all people.

I have read the privilege of doing Public Relations volunteer work for The Tandana Foundation for four years now. I can't say enough about how enjoyable has been. Tandana's Executive Director and staff are completely committed to the Foundation's mission. Their sense of commitment is very contagious and has spread to all the volunteers including myself. Tandana's staff is also extremely appreciative of all the work the volunteers perform. Even if I am only completing a small task for them, they always so grateful for my work. They really make them feel as if I am truly making a difference. The appreciation also makes me feel valued, which is something I think that is lacking in a lot of the for-profit and nonprofit world today. I have often said that I started volunteering for Tandana because it provided me with an opportunity to use my public relations skills, however, I will stay working with Tandana for life because of the people who are in charge.

In my wall as Public Relations Specialist I frequently interview people who have traveled with Tandana on their Volunteer Vacations or group service projects. All the volunteers come back from their experience with Tandana truly inspired. It is also worth noting that many of the people volunteer with Tandana more than once. Tandana creates wonderful relationships between the volunteers and the people they help

I was blessed with first hand experience in observing and participating in the work Tandana has done in Mali (prior to outbreak of civil war). In short, this organization seeks to involve everyday folks of interacting cultures in providing the lesson of "how to fish" in a sustainable manner, rather than "checkbook charity" providing fish for a day. What pride the residents in Mali displayed accomplishing great things on their own!

Our group of Master Gardeners from the state of Ohio teamed up with Tandana in Otavalo, Ecuador. We spent 7 days - worked on a tree farm/nursery(vivero) , planted trees with local school children(at their school); harvested tree seedlings @10,000 ft. above sea level in the highlands & transplanted saplings.
Tandana offered many interesting side trips, so we additionally were immersed in the culture of Ecuador.
The tandana team members were well-prepared, thorough & very kind. The Tandana philosophy of cross cultural/mutual respect was exemplified by them all - and we were the beneficiaries-how wonderful!

A truly rewarding experience, traveling to Ecuador, working in the tree nursery, planting trees with the school children from the town of Quichinche and all the other wonderful activities we were able to accomplish during the week. It was the perfect blend of working and sight-seeing!

This is so muck better than simply being a tourist. We worked side by side with the indigenous people of Ecuador, visited their homes, ate their food, etc. I feel the work we did (planting 240 trees) made Ecuador a better place.

Crossing paths with The Tandana Foundation truly has been life changing. I volunteered as a healthcare provider four years ago in highland Ecuador and never would have imagined prior to my first trip, that this will be my fifth year returning to Ecuador to volunteer and continue to provide care to this indigenous population..I became hooked! I love the relationships formed, it is truly a connection to the land and to its people..Anna Taft has become such a part of these communities, laying a strong foundation so that all volunteers who join are essentially welcomed into these communities as family. I have just returned from a Tandana volunteer vacation to Mali- I was so inspired by our work in Ecuador that I had to explore the work being done in Mali as well- We built a grain bank in the village of Sal Dimi, and a latrine in another small village. We sat in on the first women's literacy class taking place in the village of Kansongho (amazing!), we formed friendships and became fully immersed in the culture of Mali's Dogon region while providing aid for truly sustainable projects..and most importantly we worked WITH the community in the finishing of such projects, truly a collective effort- allowing us to weave lasting friendships. The appreciation and welcome we received from these communities was like none other Ive ever experienced! TERRIFIC ORGANIZATION.

I went with my 8th grade class to Ecuador and it was the most eye opening experience I have ever had so far! We did community service with a small Andean community called Padre Chupa and so much more. The kids and people are amazing, Tandana was so much more than helpful. Natalie is amazing! She translated when our meager Spanish skills were insufficient, she was just a joy to have with us. Tandana helped get us food, and pretty much planned teh entire trip. Thanks So much!!

My experience with Tandana was awesome! The accommodations were great and there was a great mix between tradition Ecuadorian food and other more "familiar" types to our US group. We travelled to Ecuador on an Alternative Spring Break trip from Northeastern University in Boston for a one week service project. Tandana did very good planning before hand and were ready to put us to work! Our group really felt welcome into the community and its very rewarding knowing that our filtration system will be in the village for a long time to come!

My experience with Tandana Foundation was truly life changing. I visited Otavalo with a group of college students as part of an alternative spring break. During the week, we had the opportunity to work with members of the community to build a water filtration system to improve the quality of water in the community. I can honestly not give one shred of negative feedback... Not only were the people in the community and organization welcoming, friendly, caring, and enthusiastic--they were hardworking and an inspiration to the students. Tandana Foundation perfectly balanced teaching us about the cultural aspects of the community and Otavalo, Ecuador while making sure we got down to business and did work. When my group left, I could tell how valued our work was to the community.

Tandana was amazing. The staff, community, Ecuador in general – everyone is so friendly and willing to help you whenever you need it. Five staff members from Tandana were available for our group, but we mostly had three staff personnel with us at all time. I miss them dearly, and I am sure when you meet them too, you will, as well! It was fascinating learning how Tandana got started in such a quick amount of time (less than 10 years ago). All the people you will meet on the trip have fascinating stories, so make sure to listen and ask questions. It will make your experience that much better. Everyone has the best intentions in Ecuador, and it was comforting knowing we were leaving with having met the best of people in the world; it was nice knowing that we could keep in touch with almost everyone we met via Facebook group (Tandana FB group) and Tandana’s website. Furthermore, Tandana was so helpful and accommodating, not to mention that they were extremely quick with e-mailing us back. Tandana was reassuring when we were planning our trip, and always listened to/tried to process our requests. It was also helpful to know they have had thousands of previous volunteers. Tandana also has other opportunities available through them, so students may wish to return to Tandana for a Co-op or vacation in the future (they have healthcare volunteer vacations, in addition to water infiltration/Public Health initiatives we partook in). The trip doesn’t have to end after your service with Tandana. We told them we love them and they said they would be more than willing to have us back. They have plenty of work to keep us busy, and a community is always in need. The indigenous people of Ecuador are very inspirational, and everyone should have the opportunity to work with them. A fantastic opportunity for anyone, for sure.

I feel that Tandana is very organized and accomodating to volunteers. They are flexible in working with concerns, needs and interests with each volunteer while still meeting the needs of the communities they serve. At the same time they provided opportunity for local, cultural and personal interaction. One personal example is that I was the only first time volunteer to stay for both weeks of their March trip and therefore had free time on the day others were leaving or arriving. They made special arrangements so that I could go on an activity of my interest with a guide on the day between groups.

Tandana Foundation's work in Ecuador is an important contribution and an inspiration to the disadvantaged of Quichinche and La Banda communities of Imbabura, and beyond. I am in awe of Director Anna Taft's infectious devotion and commitment. Tandana's remarkable volunteers embellish their tenacity with humor, charm and great spirit. They are of The New World and am so glad to be a small part of it.

In February 2009 I spent about 10 days with the Tandana Foundation in Mali. I had found this small charity looking through the entries of idealist.com trying to find an organisation I could do some voluntary work with rather than visit Mali just as a tourist. The Tandana Foundation offered exactly what I had been looking for. They are a small american charity, which is run by its founder a young woman called Anna Taft, who works with one village in Mali and another in South America. The journey with this small and very motivated group was truely amazing. The village we travelled to is called Kansongho, which is on the plateau of the Pays Dogon. Anna had helped to finance the rebuilding of their well and the village had put on a festival in honour of the Foundation. We had a huge welcome when we arrived, with a big crowd of the villagers walking with us chanting and playing drums. Ancient flint lock rifles were set off and I was fearing for my ears, it was that loud. A few days later we were shown, how they make the gun powder from raw ingredients. In fact most things are done from scratch. A huge amount of work goes into almost everything they do, from cooking to building. One day I observerd the couscous being made for a lunch time meal. I did not see the part when the millet is ground/pounded to the right consistency, but I saw the process of steaming it three times and always stirring it inbetween to keep it fluffy. All this is done in big amounts for many, many people on open fires, very hot work using big clay pots and wide enamel pans. All the women are physically very strong from carrying water and pounding millet every day. Our group had a go at all the different tasks that are done by the women each day and we noticed how quickly our strength faded in comparison. We carried water from the well, which is a few hundred meters. We carried stones that had already been cut in preparation for the building work from an area outside the village. We howed millet plants in preparation of the gathering of the stalks for animal feed and fire wood and to prepare the ground for the next sowing. We carried stones to build retaining walls that help keep the water and the top soil in the fields during the rains. A group of us went further afield to collect fire wood. The stones we moved for the construction of the grain bank were further cut with very simple tools by eye to exact sizes and a beautiful building was being constructed dry with these stones with great skill. We only looked on. The inside of the building was covered with banco, softish clay that was thrown onto the walls. We were able to help with this. In the evening there was dancing and during the day we arrived they did some special mask dances and the children did some theatrical skids fo us, the women a symbolic ceremony. We visited people in their homes and saw women spinning, men weaving and other types of textile work. We spent a truely wonderful week with the villagers. An experience I would not want to miss.

I've been on two 'service vacations' with the Tandana foundation. I don't like the fact they call it a vacation. It's true that our accomadations were very comfortable, our food was also excellent. (I have gone on other medical missions, and slept on cots in warehouses...frankly I'm over that.) I am a physician and I can tell you I worked hard! We did usually have a few free hours in the afternoon, and usually went on hikes in the mountains. Anna, the director of Tanadana, is a phenomenal woman. Her main priority is bringing excellent healthcare to the indiginous people of Ecuador, and she accomplishes this through an unusual sensitivity of the native people, along with a lot of hard work. We saw a wide variety of patients, lots with chronic problems like arthritis and hypertension. We were usually able to give them enough medication to last them until the next Tandana visit to their villiage. These patients are a delight to treat, they are grateful for whatever we can do for them. They are also open to education, and non-medicinal suggestions.

I think that this is one of the most respectful non profits working in 'developing' countries! They work in solidarity with local communities.