Country Overview
This landlocked country is the highest and most isolated of the countries in South America. It also contains the highest population of indigenous peoples. More than 50% of the population speak a language other than Spanish and hold to traditional religious beliefs. Bolivia is also one of South America's poorest countries, despite their wealth of mineral and energy resources.

Quick Facts
Area: 424,162 sq miles
Population: 9,000,000
Religion: 95% Roman Catholic, 5% Protestant
Languages: Quechua, Spanish, Aymara
Life expectancy: 62 years (men), 66 years (women)

Our Partner: International Teams
Mike and Bonnie Timmer are serving with International Teams and are based in the city of Cochabamba. Their primary ministry is orphanages with the goal of bringing children to Christ one child at a time. They provide Christian homes for orphaned, abandoned and children at risk; build, staff and administer each home; and pursue small business enterprises that provide for the needs of each child. Their desire is that these orphanages will become a sustainable community providing a healthy foundation for many Bolivian children.

Trip Description
Teams split their time between the 3 orphanages that the Timmers run. One of is located in the city of Cochabamba and the other 2 are in the rainforest. Most teams spend time playing with the children, visiting the schools and completing construction projects. There are also opportunities to be exposed to the culture and history of Bolivia.

Team Preparation
All Bolivia GP team members must commit to attending all preparation meetings during second semester, usually one hour a week for 6-8 weeks as well as the group training on January 27, 2009.  During these meetings you will develop as a team, learn about Bolivian culture and language, and study social justice issues facing the country.  You will also dedicate time to fundraising both individually and as a team.  All team members must pay for their entire trip by May 1, 2009.

All students are welcome to apply for this trip, but because of the limited number of spots preference will be given to those who speak or are learning Spanish and to students who have experience with construction.

In order to be a part of the Bolivia GP team you will need a passport that expires no less than six months after your intended visit.  Those who already have a viable passport, or have applied for a passport at the time of interview will be given preference over those who have not taken action to apply for a passport.  Also, the price of the passport, vaccinations, and other personal expenses are not covered in the cost of the trip.

Important Dates
September 14^th – Global Partnership Expo 9:30PM
November 10^th – Spring and Summer GP trip applications due
November 9^th-17^th – GP Interviews
November 16^th-22^nd – GP auction online
November 19^th – Spring and Summer GP teams announced
December 2^nd - Fundraising Meeting 6:00PM
January 17^th – Mandatory all-day GP team retreat
May 1^st – All donations/payments due
May 3^rd – Commissioning of Summer GP Teams at collegelife
May 10^th-22^nd  – GP trip to Cochabamba, Bolivia