GROUP LEADERS

Group Leaders

Interested in leading your own group for an Esperanza service trip? We are currently accepting groups of 2-50 people for 2023 trips. We work with groups from around the world who are schools, universities, churches, businesses, friends, and family. We are so grateful for your hearts of service, and thank you for introducing more people to the mission of Esperanza. Below you will find all the resources you need to plan your Esperanza volunteer group trip.

To book an Esperanza trip please email our program director where you'll reserve a date, then receive the questionnaire, contract, and deposit invoice.

Group Resources and Information

Getting Started

Group Leader Planning Handbook

Contains a trip planning timeline, worksite safety, staying at the posada, map and directions, a sample trip, packing lists, travel insurance, and more

Download

Trip Planning Timeline Overview

6 months- 1 year until trip
6-9 months until trip
3-6 months until trip
2-5 months until trip
6 weeks until trip
1 month until trip
2 weeks until trip
Upon Arrival
Last Night of Trip

Group Registration

Group leader connects with Esperanza's program director to decide trip dates, then completes the questionnaire, contract, and submits deposit to confirm trip!

Secure Transportation

Groups secure their own transportation reservations for their trips such as airline tickets, rental vans, minibuses, etc. 

Secure Details

Solidify your participants and have them verify travel documents and purchase international medical insurance. Create plan for group meals.

Meet with Your Group

Begin regular group meetings. Learn about Esperanza's philosophy and program, as well as issues and culture in the Tijuana border region.

Confirm Trip Details

Confirm your trip details with Esperanza's program director: details such as group numbers, arrival and departure times, quarantine plan, etc. 

Final Payment

Make final payment which is due 30 days from your trip's start date.

Forms

Collect medical and liability forms and travel insurance information from each group member. Distribute packing lists.

Enjoy Your Trip!

Upon arrival, give copies of each person's medical and liability waivers to Esperanza's Volunteer Coordinator. And then ENJOY YOUR SERVICE TRIP WITH ESPERANZA!!

Surveys

Before departure, have your group complete the Post Trip Reflection Surveys- found at the bottom of the "For Volunteers" page and your group leader survey at the bottom of this page.

  • 3 women from the community making salsa in the kitchen of la posada

    Thank You Group Leaders!

Health and Safety

International Insurance

See what we require for international travel and medical insurance

Learn More

Our Security Manual

Planning for emergencies, security, and printable contact wallet cards.

Download

Volunteer Waivers

Our volunteer medical and liability waivers

Click Here

Planning Documents

Activities List

Extra opportunities for you and your group. In English and Spanish.

Download

Meals Menu

If your group is doing a prepared meal or two. In English and Spanish.

Download

Packing Lists

For volunteers, group leaders, and emergency kits. 

Download

Pricing

2024 Pricing breakdown for volunteers and groups HERE

2025 Pricing HERE

Travel Resources for Entering Mexico

How to Apply for a Passport

See also how to get a passport in a rush

Learn More

Crossing Into Mexico Resources

See also the Group Planning Handbook

Learn More

Mexican Tourist Cards (FMM)

Info on "FMM" Cards/ Tourist Visas

Learn More

Travel Requirements

Info on international travel

Learn More

U.S. Department of State

Mexico Travel Information

Learn More
Before After

Post Trip