projecthonduras.com is… a network that tracks volunteer groups and projects in Honduras and provides an online forum by which to communicate and coordinate efforts.

The network is NOT an organization. It is a series of “systems” aimed at facilitating the process of communicating and coordinating.

The first system is the website and the listserv forums.

The second system is the annual Conference on Honduras in Copán Ruinas.

The third system is the partnership with Honduras Weekly newspaper.

The fourth system is an emerging partnership with Honduras Global foundation.

We envision a fifth system… a partnership with the Honduran government, Honduran businesses, and the airport authority in Honduras.

Volunteer groups would receive Volunteer ID cards entitling them to discounts – hotels, restaurants, tour companies, entrance fees, etc. Most important – a reduction in the airport exit fee.

The system would do 3 things… say “thank you” and serve as an incentive to continue visiting Honduras. establish a system to better identify and organize the volunteer sector. send a powerful message about the importance of volunteerism and help promote this culture.

It is important to change the idea of who is a VIP in a Honduras. It should not be the traditional “dignitaries”, but rather those who serve those in need by giving freely of their time, energy, talent, expertise, money, and contacts. ”.

As part of this Volunteer ID system, Honduras would revise its Customs Declaration form by adding “Volunteer” to the list of choices next to the question about the “purpose of the trip”.

The revision to the forum would allow the government to gauge the size of the volunteer travel sector, and thus more fully understand its value. This is key to empowering the volunteer sector and enabling it to better advocate for itself and better serve the people of Honduras.