ICADS stands out from other language institutes in our clearly articulated social, political, and environmental focus. We advocate and work for interlocking agendas that advance human rights of all oppressed groups, and are one of few Spanish schools in Costa Rica to offer complimentary volunteer placement service for students who wish to practice Spanish while making a contribution to local community change efforts (language ability permitting). This, coupled with our attention to the individual abilities and needs of each participant (1 student per host family and max. 4 students per class), allows our students a unique opportunity for personal and academic growth while making lasting contributions to the surrounding community.