About
ICADS
The Institute for Central American Development Studies (ICADS) is a center for study, research, and analysis of Central American social and environmental issues. Since 1986, we focus on economic development, politics, environmental studies, sustainable development, public health, women’s issues, education, human rights, and conservation.
OUR
vision
Our programs aim to increase understanding of the region within a historical perspective; to develop a theoretical framework for the analysis of root causes, forms and dimensions of underdevelopment and injustice; to stimulate critical evaluation of current development strategies, analyzing their effects on women, children, the poor, and the environment; and to search for alternative methods, policies, and strategies.
OUR
mission
Our mission is to educate participants about Central America by teaching Spanish and by offering academic programs that utilize a theoretically critical perspective, as well as hands-on experience, to help students deepen insights into current social, political and economic realities and their effects on the environment and society, especially the poor and marginalized. We also strive to support organizations and communities throughout the countries where we work through regular donations and utilization of services.
ICADS'
Values
Educate
ICADS educates participants about Central America through Spanish classes and hands-on academic programs that help students deepen their insights of social, political and economic realities while valuing their effects on the local environment and society.
Support
ICADS supports local organizations and communities by demonstrating a commitment to learning about local social justice issues. Through volunteer work and financial support, we support local education, healthcare, human rights, anti-hunger and environmental issues.
Understand
ICADS strives to increase the understanding of Central America learning through historical perspectives, analyzing root causes, studying inequality and injustice, evaluating current development strategies, studying issues on women, children, poverty, the poor, and the environment.
Inclusion and Diversity
ICADS aims to foster an environment where all individuals are respected and empowered to contribute their perspectives and think critically. Core to our values is recognizing and appreciating the backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives that individuals hold. This involves going beyond an anti-discrimination, equal opportunity and zero tolerance for harassment policy, to actively creating an environment where all individuals feel a sense of belonging, are treated with respect, and can participate fully.
We do not discriminate on the basis of sex, religion, race, sexual orientation, age, or physical ability in the admissions process or otherwise. We feel it is very important for participants and leaders to have an accurate understanding of the program in order to take full advantage of the opportunity. All students receive in-depth pre-departure information in writing, pertaining to packing, health and safety, cultural information, host family and arrival information, and more. Our communications coordinator and host family coordinator are in consistent contact with students prior to their arrival. While in-country, students receive an in-depth orientation as well as a Student Handbook with important health and safety and cultural information. At the end of each program, we have discussions about transition and re-entry with which follow up on previous conversations about the learning cycle.
Our team is made up of experts committed to your academic success, health, and safety. Many of us have spent decades working with US students in Central America, and in topics related to our academic work. Many of us, both North and Central Americans, are bilingual, and we all love working cross culturally with students like you in our tropical context.
Meet
OUR TEAM
