Frequently Asked Questions for Potential Delegates on the
 December 2nd Churchwomen Delegation
November 30 – December 6, 2006
How many people will participate in the delegation?
We expect 40 people for the December Churchwomen delegation.
How do I register for a delegation?
Complete the application form attached and return it along with your $50 check, to Kathleen Bolts, SHARE Foundation , 598 Bosworth, #1, San Francisco , CA 94131 .
When is the deadline for registration?
The Churchwomen delegation registration will close on October 15, 2006
What is the delegation fee?
The fee for the December Churchwomen delegation is $950. Please send in a non-refundable deposit of $50 before October 15, 2006 . The balance is due by November 15, 2006 . (Please note that due to fixed costs, such as hiring translators and reserving rooms, SHARE will only be able to refund 50% of the $950 delegation fee after October 15, 2006 .)
What does the delegation fee cover?
The fee covers food, lodging, translation, set-up and facilitation of meetings, reading and preparation materials, orientation, and on-the-ground transportation in El Salvador . Airfare is not included in the delegation price.
What will I do on a SHARE delegation?
The delegation will include participation in the 26th anniversary commemorative events, as well as provide an opportunity to learn about the work of the poorest sectors to organize people-centered alternatives amidst corporate globalization. The trip will include visits to the countryside to accompany communities and witness the grassroots local development and women’s empowerment projects that SHARE is supporting. The week will focus on honoring the martyrs, connecting with the Salvadoran people and learning about the on-going struggles for peace and justice in El Salvador .
Tentative Itinerary which is subject to change (a more detailed itinerary will be available closer to departure)
November 30 – Travel day. Delegates arrive and are taken to the guesthouse.
December 1 – Orientation and pilgrimage to the Memorial Wall at Cuscatlan Park to honor all of El Salvador’s martyrs, Romero’s Tomb and other sacred sites in San Salvador.
December 2 – Participation in the commemorative events in honor of Maura, Ita, Dorothy and Jean.
December 3 – Depart to the countryside and visit the communities where SHARE’s local development projects are taking place. These projects all contain SHARE’s guiding principles of women’s empowerment, citizen’s participation and community organizing. Spend the night in the countryside.
December 4 – Meetings with the healthcare worker’s union and religious leadership.
December 5 – Meetings with SHARE’s advocacy partners who are opposing Free Trade and promoting fair trade alternatives. Final evaluation.
December 6 – Depart for the United States .
What are the accommodations in El Salvador like?
Delegates stay in safe, clean and modest homes or guesthouses. SHARE has been using many of the same accommodations for years without problem .
Will the delegation be personalized or accommodate specific group’s goals?
SHARE delegations are generally divided into groups of 8-12 in order to accommodate specific goals.
Do I need to speak Spanish to participate in the delegation?
Although Spanish language skills are helpful, they are not necessary for participation. Translation will be provided by SHARE.
How does SHARE prepare delegates for the experience?
SHARE will send a general information packet on history, politics, itinerary and travel tips. SHARE also encourages delegates to read publications listed in a suggested reading list.
Who participates in SHARE delegations?
Individuals and groups with a sincere interest in learning from Salvadorans about the struggles of El Salvador and a desire to accompany them in that process. Delegates must possess a willingness to learn and be challenged by circumstances of poverty and must share a sensitivity towards cultures other than their own. SHARE encourages people of diverse backgrounds to participate in delegations.
Who sets up and accompanies the delegation?
SHARE staff and volunteers facilitate the delegations. Many have extensive in-country experience and can serve as a resource for answering questions regarding logistics, politics and culture.
Is it dangerous to travel in El Salvador ?
Safety is the ultimate priority for SHARE staff and volunteers. SHARE has been facilitating delegations for over 20 years and has extensive in-country experience and contacts. This network of information and support has allowed SHARE to coordinate delegations safely. Delegates will receive reading materials and orientation in El Salvador on common sense safety precautions while traveling in El Salvador .
What are the recommended immunizations for travel to El Salvador ?
Please go to the Center for Disease Control website for complete information: www.cdc.gov/travel/camericahttp://www.cdc.gov/travel/camerica.htm
Do I need a passport or visa to travel to El Salvador ?
A valid passport with an expiration date not less than 6 months from departure date to El Salvador is necessary for travel to El Salvador . US citizens do not need a visa. For those holding passports from other countries, the visa requirements vary depending from what country the passport is issued. Please go to www.elsalvador.org for complete information.
How will I find SHARE staff at the airport?
SHARE staff and volunteers will meet delegates at the airport after delegates pass through customs. They will be holding signs that say “SHARE.”
Are there scholarships available?
SHARE is currently fundraising to have some scholarship money available. We also have resource materials for fundraising delegation fees.
Where can I find out more about the SHARE Foundation ?
For further information on SHARE’s programming, mission and history, go to www.share-elsalvador.org.
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