Giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions and penguins are just a few of the native animals you will closely encounter living in the archipelago of the Galapagos Islands. Since inspiring Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, these islands have gone from an uninhabited island chain to a global hub of eco-tourism. This human invasion has caused a great need for the preservation of both land and sea. Lifeworks-Galapagos lends its hands to a variety of causes devoted to the conservation of these beautiful islands.

The Galapagos consist of more than 100 islands located off the coast of Ecuador. This once-lonely island group is one of the most biologically important places on earth. We are proud to be the only teen community service group associated with the Galapagos, working directly with the parks.

By working with the National Park Service and Marine Reserve Staff, we will remove potentially harmful seaborne debris from the shoreline that is home to endangered wildlife. As a team, we will revitalize the coast to make it more suitable for habitation.

We remove non-native plants, like Mora and Cascarilla, from the highlands so that the native flora can thrive once again. It was the view of these volcanic hills and low-lying clouds that originally gave the Galapagos its nickname "Las Islas Encantadas" - The Enchanted Islands.

We visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about the work their scientists are undertaking in the region and other projects involve team-building activities, arts and crafts, as well as initiatives with school children. Local high school students take classes on guiding tourists around the islands. By practicing with Lifeworkers, the students gain a better sense of the English language and, at the same time, we learn some Spanish as well.

When our work is finished, we will kick back at the beaches where body surfing next to a sea lion is not unusual. Feeling adventurous, we will go snorkeling at Bartolome, Santiago Island, Isla Lobos and see the famous Kicker Rock. Occasionally, our days end with a soccer match between Lifeworkers and local high school students. Our time spent in the Galapagos is always inspirational, educational and exciting.

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