In Bolivia, young people have serious problems when trying to find a job that pays decently and comply with social regulations.
![ECW:Rodrigo-1](http://www.oneworldprojects.net/images/database/1538-Ecowood-Artisan-Handmade-Fair-Trade-Certified-Forest-Stewardship-Council-Wood-Bolivia.jpg)
Many companies working with wooden products hire only experienced workers, under a per-contract, temporary basis. This means that companies hire only when they receive an order, and they keep people until the production is over. After then, companies get rid of workers who get on the market looking for a new job as freelancers, and so on. Young people have even a harder time trying to get a stable job because they lack both experience and training. This makes it very difficult for them to plan their time, to save money, to have a medical insurance, to pursue a career, and to help with the family budget.
In Bolivia, many young people have serious problems finding a lasting job that pays decently and complies with social regulations. Oftentimes, work is temporary and only available when there are enough product orders placed.
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Ecowoods BO is an exception. The company works with young artisans coming from poor areas of La Paz, training them in woodworking. Most of these talented artisans are able to have stable work that pays over the minimum wage, regardless of how large or small the orders. A new employee, without experience would make 40% over the minimum wage and an employee with two years of experience inside the company would make almost 80% over the minimum wage. All Ecowoods BO workers have social benefits; receive continuous training on woodworking and on other areas such as equipment maintenance, motors, electricity, and industrial security. Employees are paid for overtime, vacations and earn a bonus equal to a month of salary for Christmas time. Both genders have equal opportunity to work as long as they are 18 or over.
In addition to these benefits, Ecowoods BO has agreements with Aldeas SOS and with the Municipal Program for Poverty Reduction. The company plays a vital role in helping improve its surrounding communities in need. Many orphans from Aldeas SOS have found work at Ecowoods BO.