VolunteerSouthAmerica.net remains one of the best online sources of information on independent volunteering in the region. In addition to links to the websites of nearly 100 organizations which incorporate either a small or no volunteer fee, there are links to a variety of other great online resources (including, ahem, yours truly) as well as a few volunteer statements - both this one and this one are from volunteers in Peru.

A few of the organization include:

• Animal Aware in Guatemala – located about one hour out of Guatemala city, this is an animal shelter which needs volunteers to help care for animals; it is also involved in spay/neuter programs. Volunteers can pay $5/day for accommodation near the shelter – if they find their own accommodation there is no charge to volunteer.
• Oaxaca Street Children – founded in 1996 by two Americans, this organization is involved in improving the lives of children who work on the streets through securing educational sponsorship and running a community center as well as a food and medical program. Short-term volunteers can get involved in the community center teaching English or arts/crafts, or, if appropriately qualified, in the medical program. Longer term volunteers can assist with research or get involved in putting together projects and writing detailed proposals.
• Street School in Xela, Guatemala – a Guatemalan indigenous organization which works with 60 children who are either currently street children, former street children who now live with foster families, or children at risk of becoming homeless. Required are either either professionally qualified or in-training teachers and social or health care workers, those with experience in grantwriting/fundraising or backgrounds in business. They also list “just about whatever you are talented in combined with passion for children.”

For a whole lot more, have a look around VolunteerSouthAmerica.net.