My Nonprofit Reviews
fahertyheather
Review for The Tandana Foundation, Spring Valley, OH, USA
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.
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
experiencing their kindness, generosity, and welcoming nature during our service to Otavalo, Ecuador.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
decide against it, or simply make the decision to make it a BIGGER organization, because they are so amazing!
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
meeting the staff members of Tandana and meeting and being immersed in the Ecuadorian community of La Banda. This opportunity would not have been possible if it were not for the generous hearts of Tandana - putting education and service first.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
always available to help us out, and more than willing to make our stay comfortable and cozy while we were present. They worked so hard to make our stay enlightening (cultural activities) and fulfilling (service).
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
help the world even more, and teach even more students than it already does. They could grow immensely into the potential I know it has (and already demonstrates).
Ways to make it better...
Nothing at all! It may be helpful though to notify volunteers to bring one metal spoon and/or fork, and one collapsible camping plate that can turn into a bowl (available at EMS). We recommend this option in case students in the group get sick in the be
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
handling the number of volunteers that will keep coming to them, simply because I can imagine it is and will continue to grow as a popular organization. However, they will fulfill this challenge with ease.
One thing I'd also say is that...
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU TANDANA! I will NEVER forget the experience I received. Your organization has helped to open my eyes to worldly possibilities in service, and has allowed me to meet the most caring people of Ecuador!
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
One time
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
