ISLA’s surf lifesaving development initiatives in Nicaragua have epitomized a collaborative and phased approach toward enhancing water safety along the country’s shores.
Since 2009, ISLA has partnered extensively with the Nicaraguan government, the Nicaraguan Red Cross, and diverse non-governmental entities to pioneer sustainable lifeguard operations. Beginning with a ISLA Basic Open Water Lifeguard Academy in 2012, a diverse range of Nicaraguan trainees, including civil service members and Red Cross volunteers, were equipped with vital lifesaving skills. Graduates of these programs became safety ambassadors, spreading their expertise and resources throughout Nicaragua and notably reducing drowning incidents.
This success propelled ISLA into its third phase in 2023, launching an Instructor Academy that empowered local lifeguard instructors, certified under ISLA’s standards, to lead lifeguard academies. Collaborating closely with the Nicaraguan Red Cross, this approach embodies a sustainable training model, fostering a culture of safety across Nicaraguan coastlines through ongoing education and local empowerment.
This year, ISLA joins forces with Nica Heartbeat in Playa Colorado, Nicaragua, for a Basic Open Water Lifeguard Academy. Utilizing ISLA-trained Nicaraguan Instructors from 2023, the collaboration emphasizes sustainable development and local empowerment. Their goal: enhancing water safety along Playa Colorado’s coastline and fostering a culture of safety in Nicaraguan coastal communities.
Join ISLA to save lives in Nicaragua! Be part of our legacy by aiding lifeguard operations in Playa Colorado with Nica Heart Beat. Your commitment can safeguard lives along Nicaragua’s coast—join us in this meaningful journey.
Stories from the frontlines #islanicaragua
Operation Nicaragua
March 7 - 15, 2024
APPLY NOW!
Location
City: Playa Colorado
Information
Applications Due: Jan 14, 2024
Applicants Notified: Jan 15, 2024
Operation Leader: MSO Lorah Kassai
ISLA Gnar-Factor 1.75
Max Number of Volunteers: 10
Cost: $550
Oh!… and did we mention that our ISLA Team will be staying at the fabulous 4-star, ocean front Casa Colorados!!!
Join ISLA and be part of our mission to save lives and elevate lifeguard operations in Nicaragua! Partnership with Nica Heartbeat in Playa Colorado offers a unique chance to directly contribute to water safety efforts along Nicaragua’s stunning coastlines. As a volunteer, you’ll work alongside certified local instructors trained by ISLA in 2023, further strengthening lifeguard capabilities.
Your involvement goes beyond volunteering—it’s about becoming a vital force in a community-driven initiative. Joining ISLA in Nicaragua means immersing yourself in a culturally rich experience while making a significant impact. Your dedication will help create a safer environment for all who cherish Nicaragua’s captivating coastal beauty.
Important Dates & Itinerary
Now
Volunteer Applications Open
Sunday, January 14, 2024
Volunteer Applications Close & Selected Volunteers Notified
Sunday, Jan 21, 2024
$250 Non-refundable Deposit & $50 Membership Due
Sunday, February 4, 2024
Airfare Purchase Due
Sunday, February 11, 2024
Travel Insurance Due
Sunday, February 18, 2024
$300 Non-Refundable Operation Donation Due
Sunday, February 25, 2024
ISLA Exams Due
Thursday, March 7, 2024
ISLA Team Arrives in Managua, Stay at Best Western
March 8, 2024
Travel to Playa Colorado / Prep Day
March 9 - 11, 2024
Conduct ISLA's Open Water Lifeguard Academy
March 12, 2024
Community Outreach / Rancho Santana Day
March 13, 2024
Surf Day
March 14, 2024
Travel to Managua, Stay at Best Western
Friday, March 15, 2024
ISLA Team Departs
Operation Donation Amount
$550 USD
Included in the Operation Donation
- Lodging for the duration of the operation
- Lunch during Volunteer Instructor Portions (approximately 3 days)
- In-country ground transportation
- Full ISLA uniform
- Equipment donations
NOT Included in the Operation Donation
- Round Trip Airfare to (MGA) Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (tickets from LAX range from $400 – $700 USD)
- Visa Fee (varies by country)
- Travelers Insurance (varies)
- 1 Year ISLA Membership ($50)
- Optional extended travel
Language Requirement
*There is no language requirement for this operation, although lifeguards who are bilingual Spanish, and have training experience will be given priority in the application process.
What else is included?
Transportation: we work with our hosts, close relationships and sponsors, etc. to get this covered. Usually for the entire trip from airport to airport
Food: We work with our host, sponsorship, and friends to cover food during the work portions of ths trip. usually about half of the meals are covered for the whole trip
Housing: We work with sponsord, our hosts, etc. to get this sponsored during the work portions of the trip.
Experience: ISLA trips are generally cheaper than typical Travel, and allow you to make lifeling friends while making a difference. you ALSO gain professional knowledge of others while sharing your own skills.
Operation Nicaragua Media
Est. 2009
"Every superhero has an origin story, Nicaragua is ours!"
News
ISLA's 1st FundraiserLifeguards cycle coast-to-coast to promote ocean safety.
Operation Details >
Photos
Lifeguard AcademyNicaraguan Red Cross lifeguards train to meet international standards.
Operation Details >
Photos
Behind the ScenesSpring BREAk!!! Here's a taste of some of the fun in Nicaragua.
Operation Details >
