SHARE Foundation

Frequently Asked Questions for Potential Delegates on Romero Delegation

What are the dates of the delegations?
The Romero delegation will be March 19-26 th 2010.

How many people will participate in the delegations?
We expect over 100 people for the Romero

What is the delegation fee?
$950

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.

How do I register for a delegation?
Complete this application form and send it to laura@share-elsalvador.org

When is the deadline for registration?
The Romero delegation registration will close on January 31, 2010.

What will I do on a SHARE delegation?
The delegation will include participation in the 30th 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)

ROMERO DELEGATION
March 19: Travel Day. Delegates arrive and are taken to the hotel.
March 20: Orientation to SHARE and participation in the Romero March and Vigil

March 21–22: Depart to the countryside and visit the communities where SHARE’s local development projects are taking place. Spend the night in the countryside.
March 23 Visit to Memorial Wall in Parque Cuscatlan and hear speakers about current Salvadoran reality

March 24:        Participate in anniversary celebrations
March 25:       Visit to the UCA and other SHARE counterparts
March 26:        Depart for the United States.

What are the accommodations in El Salvador like?
Delegates will stay in the Hotel Alameda. SHARE has been using the same accommodations for years without problem.

May our group visit our sister community? How many days can our visit last?
Yes (minimum of 5 delegates). Delegates can visit their sister community for 2 days.

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. They 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?
El Salvador is one of the most dangerous countries in Latin American, both in level of violence and health risks. That said, safety is the ultimate priority for SHARE staff and volunteers. SHARE has been facilitating delegations for over 24 years, and we organize 10-15 delegations every year. This extensive in-country experience and network of contacts 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:
http://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.

What type of currency is used in El Salvador?
US dollars.

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.” In any event, you can contact the SHARE El Salvador office at 503.260.4325.

Are there scholarships available?
Partial scholarships are available. SHARE is currently fundraising to have some scholarship money available. We also have resource materials for fundraising delegation fees.

Is there a minimum age requirement?
No, but dependent minors (under 18 years) will need parental authorization.

Where can I find out more about the SHARE Foundation and ways to help SHARE?
For further information on SHARE’s programming, mission and history, go to www.share-elsalvador.org . For further information on the lives of Romero, go to the Religious Task Force on Central America and Mexico at www.rtfcam.org .

What if I have further questions?
Contact Laura Hershberger at laura@share-elsalvador.org or the SHARE Office in Washington DC at 202 319 5540 for more information.