
Travel with a Purpose!
Enjoy the heart of the beautiful Colombian coffee region with year-round Spring-like weather, while you Serve & Learn!
Minga House Foundation, Carrera 9 # 11-34, Chinchina, Caldas, Colombia 176020
Minga House Foundation Is a non-profit organization dedicated to hosting and facilitating volunteer roles, internships, and paid educator opportunities in the stunning Colombian coffee region. We serve as a bridge for local non-profits, schools, and community organizations that might not otherwise have access to international participation and support.
Our team specializes in operations, fundraising, capacity building, and staffing, providing tailored assistance to ensure impactful, sustainable contributions. With our training facility, bilingual professional staff, and expertise in creating meaningful experiences, we guarantee a safe and enriching journey for every participant.
Since 2020, Minga House Foundation has been helping Colombian educators prepare and apply for teaching positions in the United States. To date, 100+ teachers have successfully secured contracts abroad, thanks to our support and guidance.
Who we are: Minga House Foundation was founded in 2014 by Glen Galindo who has 20+ years of experience in U.S. higher education, is a former U.S. Marine Corps Officer, and was the former national director for a U.S.-based logistics company responsible for operations in Latin America. His planning, educational programming, and risk management expertise have built a solid foundation for a sustainable organization. Our extended staff team is composed of local bilingual young professionals passionate about guiding you and sharing their communities & country with international visitors.
Volunteering Projects: At Minga House, we ensure that every volunteer project is a deeply immersive experience. From planning and worksite orientation to ongoing support and periodic reviews, we’ll be by your side every step of the way.
Engage with the local community, beyond your volunteer or internship role.
Fully immerse yourself in Colombian language and culture.
Make a positive social impact, create lasting friendships, and take home unforgettable memories.
We cater to individuals who wish to go beyond typical tourism, offering experiences that are meaningful, safe, and tailored to your skills and goals. Reach out to us, share your vision, and we’ll help you design your perfect experience. We dare you not to fall in love with the Colombian coffee region and the amazing Chinchiná community. Whether you stay for a week or up to 180 days, we’re confident you’ll leave inspired and fulfilled. Live the Real Colombia at Minga House. Avoid the isolation of luxury resorts and foreign tourist hubs—experience authentic Colombia with us!
Stay in a traditional Colombian home with high ceilings, wooden floors, warm showers, modern appliances, and WiFi throughout.
Located in the heart of Chinchiná, next to the downtown plaza and Cathedral, you’ll be right in the middle of the action.
Engage with locals in a safe, educational, and culturally rich manner while practicing your Spanish and making a meaningful contribution.
Our strategic location between Manizales and Pereira offers endless educational and cultural resources. From picturesque coffee landscapes to vibrant city life, you’ll experience the best of Colombia’s iconic coffee region.
Paid Educator Roles: Since 2017, Minga House Foundation has matched over 1,000 teachers with paid part-time and full-time teaching positions in 67 municipalities across Colombia. Opportunities are available in all subjects and grade levels, making Colombia a fantastic destination for educators looking to grow their professional careers while enjoying a unique cultural experience.
Our team will guide you through every step of the process, from planning your goals to matching you with the right role. Speak with one of our advisors today to explore how teaching in Colombia can transform your career.
What is Minga? - "palabra quechua que significa construcción colectiva."
Minga entails a collaborative work system that dates back to the Incas. It refers to the commitment, contract, or work agreement between two or more people. The word Minga also stands for meeting or reunion.
The word Minga has continued to evolve in that direction. Nowadays, in South America, it refers to community work or work among friends when they need help from each other. In addition to this, mingas usually include a fest to celebrate collaboration and hard work.
Carry the traditions of the Quechua people to build your community!