3 years. More than 30 surgeries and months spent in the hospital. Alan finally got his prosthesis and is practicing walking. This is the story of real grit. Strength, tears, depth of grief and height of joy. And…perhaps we could call it a Miracle.
We have been a support to him in many ways including the tables for Cafe Howie and for the food bank visitors to sit. We also work with his partner Suley, who is now providing Gail administrative assistance with filing the receipts and some of the accounting tasks.
Alan has depended on his wheelchair to get to and from the the Foundation, and to all the other places. He also underwent surgery on his other leg which fortunately went well.
And here he stands. Upright after three years of being horizontal, more than thirty operations and countless hospital nights. And very much alive.
We are honored to have been part of it and thank him for bringing us along. I feel that we learned much more than we taught and gave much less than we got.
At the beginning of the year when we were doing one of our community educational visits when were we presented with a new housing challenge. In one the most impoverished zones of La Carpio, we found a small one-room shack housing 20 people. 8 of these persons were a family of women and girls living in the squalid conditions.
This was a high risk situation for the family and we took this on as an urgent case. We asked they present us with a possible solutions including building a house on new land or purchasing something already existent. In the meantime we began to muster up interest among possible donors to cover any costs linked to this.
Initially, they found a house in Cartago in an area where we have relocated other families. Funny enough the house belonged to the cousin of someone we had helped relocate and find housing in that area many years ago. However, this plan didn’t work out.
Undeterred, we continued to search a feasible solution and donations. After several months we finally found the place for these women and girls to forge a healthy, happy and free life. We will continue to monitor and support them until they can reach a place of complete independence.
“This family who I call the Carpio 8 was living in squalor and grave danger in La Carpio. Thanks to generous donors they are now in a renovated shack in a safe neighborhood. If only we could do more like this…” – Gail
Our work with the Cabecar indigenous began in the late 90’s when a cabecar leader showed up at the foundation door stating he had been told to come to the Foundation and look for “the “la gringa” to help his community transition into modern society. He was from the Lower Chirripo Cabecar indigenous territory.
Initial Challenges
At the time, when we first visited the community we found that most the population had no formal education, only a few knew Spanish, and there was one health clinic in shambles where some indigenous walked up to 5 hours each way to receive attention.
Since then we have lead the efforts to build 6 health clinics, the first elementary and high schools in the area. This was then followed by a significant investment the the Education and Health ministries in building more schools and funding the personnel.
Complex Project 2022
In 2022 we completed a very complex project in this area including three aqueducts, improvements for the 5 clinics we had already built, and a brand new sixth clinic. So complex we said no more, there is enough for the community to strive and they have now the capacity to manage their own development projects.
A New Request
In 2023, the local administrator to the CCSS of Turrialba, Vinicio Mora Sandi, contacted the CRHF requesting assistance with building/improving 14 clinics in the upper Chirripo area. We initially explained that we had just finished that major project and were really just trying to recuperate mentally and physically from the demand of such a complicated project during a pandemic.
Undeterred, Vinicio continued to insist that he would take care of making sure the logistics would not be complicated for the CRHF and he would handle the difficult logistics. Our main concern being the transport of the materials into remote trails and river crossings.
Funding
After applying for numerous grants and funding opportunities unsuccessfully, in July of 2024 we were informed that the Swiss Embassy in CR would support our efforts to build the clinic in Nari.
The Inauguration
After a few challenging circumstances, on Thursday September 19th, Gail and Francisco met with the Swiss representatives and the regional Director, in Turrialba to inaugurate the newly built clinic. From turrialba we drove 2 more hours through the hills and forests to reach the Chirripo river crossing. From there we ziplined across the river and hiked 30 minutes to the local high school.
A large portion of the community was present for what seemed to be a red carpet rollout in the middle of the jungle.
We were greeted at the school by Vinicio, the directors, teachers and students, all with CR and Swiss flags waving in hand, dressed in typical CR clothing and a decorated hall.
There are 120 high school students in this most remote place. So we calculate that they will all be served by this new health clinic. As will be their grandparents. Parents, children and grandchildren. This clinic will be a healing center, a multicultural center and a teaching center. These physically strong, mentally alert and spiritually aware people are and will be the future of Humanity.
We then heard some kind words from the Regional Director of the CCSS, and some dancing and singing shows put on by the local high school youth. One boy sang us his own composition in Cabecar, such a magical moment.
After the “Acto Civico,” everyone followed Gail down to the clinic. Very showing of their ingrained matriarchal belief system and respect for elders.
Visiting the Clinic
What a view, the brand new clinic, fully furnished, with solar panels and a vaccine refrigerator included. We enjoyed a few laughs, took a bunch of pictures and had the opportunity to meet everyone involved in the project in person. Vinicio did such a good job that we only had to go for the initial studies and the inauguration, imagine that… no stress for us.
We then headed back to San Jose. Leaving at 5 am and returning home at 9 pm. On Friday we rested a bit. This has been one of the most welcoming and thoughtful inaugurations we have assisted. Thanks to Vinicio, the Swiss Embassy, the CCSS and the Ministerio de Trabajo for this effort.
Looking Ahead: More Clinics to Fund
Now to figure out how to fund the remaining 10 clinics which are in shambles or already condemned.
As a side note, some have asked why doesn’t the CCSS pay for the health clinic entirely? Because the bureaucracy involved for the CCSS in building one of these clinics elevates the cost to over $200,000. We build them with less than $50,000. And in collaborating with the CRHF, the CCSS still can fund part of the materials with a much less rigorous process. Cross-sector collaboration at its finest.
This is also possible due to the autonomy indigenous have over their territories and the fact that Costa Rica is signature to the ILO Convention 169.
After a couple of busy summer volunteer program months, we are finally taking some time to share the work we’ve accomplished. A special thanks goes out to the volunteers who joined us during their summer vacation, our donors, collaborators and everyone who continues to support our dream.
Following the 4th of July celebration in Bajamar, we collaborated with a group of special education teachers who provided training and learned about our educational models in the centers in La Carpio.
We also hosted the same organization from Bajamar, bringing a total of 70 adolescents over two days to La Carpio. This experience took us back to the pre-pandemic days when we would host up to 200 volunteers in a single day across the country. Those were good times, and it’s heartening to see things looking up again.
We were particularly excited to host the MSU Medical Student group as part of our Health Education program. This partnership, which we’ve been working on since last year, holds great promise for becoming a long-term collaboration.
Through the health campaign program, we provided medical consultations, referrals, and treatments to over 300 patients over four days. Extensive testing and diagnosis were carried out, with most patients treated on-site. We continue to follow up with those who have more severe ailments.
A special thanks to the local medical and pharmaceutical team who supervised the program; Dr. Hellen; Susy; the La Bomba Pharmacy for the very reasonable pricing; to Sabrina, who managed the complex logistics and planning for the MSU team; and to individual volunteer interpreters Stena, Steven, Kelcy and Family, and Irene and her daughter.
Steven, our permanent individual volunteer continued to present healthy lifestyle workshops. The latest was about the importance of regular medical testing for women, regardless of their age.
Stena also taught math related skills to all our teachers, providing them with the skills and materials needed to continue.
We also had the pleasure of hosting the French/British volunteer family—Kelcy, JD, Elliot, and Chloe—for a week at our new volunteer homestay. They engaged in youth development, served as interpreters, and immersed themselves in the culture of La Carpio. They also joined the sports league over the weekend for a match. What a fantastic way to spend a summer vacation with family! They are now off to explore the jungles and beaches of Costa Rica.
As a side note – recently, one of the football teams of the Recate Sports League won 17-2 against the Saprissa Team – one of the top teams in Costa Rica.
Last week, to close out the volunteer summer program, a group from Troy University visited us. They worked on youth development, built a bunk bed, and learned about our PREMDEV initiatives and La Carpio.
We are also thrilled to announce that we successfully delivered all the materials for the new clinic in Alto Chirripo to the worksite. This was made possible through the hard work and precise logistical planning of Regional CCSS Director Vinicio and a team of local indigenous workers. The walls, roof, piping, and foundation are now complete. Thanks to the Swiss Embassy for partially to sponsoring this effort.
Our faithful supporter, Howard, also visited us providing the collaborators much deserved days off, R&R and leisurely activities.
All of this progress has been made while our regular programs continue to thrive in La Carpio, Uvita, Cabecar, and BriBri.
And all of this as we make the transition into our amazing new headquarters in Ciudad Colon…”Casa Quetzal” will be our orientation, eco-camp, women’s retreat center and peaceful place for volunteers and collaborators. Keep following our posts and reading our blog posts for more details on this very soon.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way. We’re excited to keep moving forward together!
Today, like every day, I see what are called my cases. I have an office, and people lined up to see me.
Jony:
A Nicaraguan refugee from 2018. Both his brothers were murdered. He lives in a house with his wife, 17-year-old son, and autistic son, whom he loves with all his heart. He has a chronic ailment. We provide him with monthly rent relief and a weekly food basket. His autistic son has been having constant, uncontrollable seizures. I provide Jony a safe place to cry.
Maria:
A Nicaraguan refugee with cancer. She has one child and has been diagnosed with cancer. Her chemotherapy and radiotherapy were suspended because she can’t pay for insurance since she can’t work. She lives with her mother in a house where the owner is an angel on earth. This kind landlady helps Maria get to our place and carries her food basket for her. I provide both her and her neighbor with food and talk with her gently. On Monday, she shows up beautifully dressed, smiling, her wispy hair combed, and thankful to us for our help.
Hugo:
An ex-Contra fighter with an extensive family. He always shows up with something to give so we can provide him with free food. I always banter good-naturedly with him because I am Gringa, he is Nica, and I was Sandinista.
Carla:
A young mother of three, including a very fragile newborn. We give her clothes, diapers, food, and love for her kids. She can’t work. I provide her with some rent relief. I see she is scared, and I see her.
Maria and her 13-year-old son:
He is trying desperately to stay in school and graduate sixth grade. He comes every day to help carry up the food. They just got evicted. I gave her rent relief, and our team decided to make him a formal member and provide him with weekly financial help and a food basket.
And So The Days o By
If I did not have the support of the donors, none of these fragile and gentle people could get their needs met. A listening heart is good, but a listening heart with some financial power is better.
We are excited to announce our expansion into a new area of the Cabecar Indigenous territory where we will be focusing on health services initially. In the past, our efforts were concentrated in what is known as the ‘Bajo Chirripo’ area This is closer to Limon and the Caribbean coast.
This new initiative focuses on ‘Alto Chirripo,’ located further upstream along the Chirripo River. This area is primarily accessible through the mountains of Turrialba and Grano de Oro.
In collaboration with the CCSS, the Swiss Embassy, the local Indigenous Development Association (ADI Cabecar Alto Chirripo), and the Ministerio de Trabajo, we are working to enhance the health services in this region.
Many health centers operated by the CCSS have deteriorated due to termites and weathering or are close to becoming inoperable. A total of 14 structures require renovation or rebuilding.
Regional CCSS Director, Don Vinicio, has been instrumental in contacting various organizations and advocating for funding from the CCSS Directors. His efforts have resulted in the successful rebuilding of three centers so far.
The CRHF has secured funding and provided designs that have been historically used in other indigenous areas to rebuild the Puesto de Salud Periódica in Ñari. These designs have proven to be durable, with some of our original structures serving communities for over 25 years.
Ñari is an indigenous community on the edge of the upper Rio Chirripo in the Cabecar indigenous territory. The terrain is very challenging due to extreme elevation changes and the unpredictable Rio Chirripo during the rainy season. The health services are lacking and sparce on this indigenous territory. Nevertheless, Ñari will be the fourth of the 14 buildings slated for renovation.
Currently, the local indigenous community has begun clearing the land and preparing temporary storage for clinic resources and materials. Some materials will be brought in by helicopter on Friday. Stay tuned for more updates!
Maria Montessori was a visionary in the field of education, whose innovative methods transformed the way children learn and develop. Born on August 31, 1870, in Chiaravalle, Italy, Montessori broke through societal barriers to become one of the first female physicians in Italy and later, a globally renowned educator. Her legacy endures through the Montessori Method, an educational approach that emphasizes independence, hands-on learning, and respect for a child’s natural psychological development.
Early Life and Education
Montessori’s early life was marked by determination and resilience. At a time when women’s roles were largely confined to the domestic sphere, she pursued higher education with unwavering resolve. In 1896, she graduated from the University of Rome with a degree in medicine. She became one of the first women in Italy to do so. Her medical background provided a scientific foundation for her later work in education.
The Birth of the Montessori Method
Montessori’s journey into education began in 1907, when she opened the first “Casa dei Bambini” or “Children’s House” in the San Lorenzo district of Rome. Here, she applied her scientific observations of children to create an environment that nurtured their natural curiosity and love of learning. The Montessori Method was born from these observations, emphasizing self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play.
Key principles of the Montessori Method include:
Child-Centered Learning: Montessori classrooms are designed to cater to the developmental needs and interests of each child. Children are free to choose activities that intrigue them, fostering a love of learning.
Prepared Environment: The classroom environment is meticulously arranged with materials that encourage exploration and discovery. This environment supports the child’s independence and ability to engage in meaningful work.
Mixed-Age Classrooms: Montessori classrooms typically group children of different ages together. This promotes peer learning, with older children serving as mentors and younger children finding inspiration in their peers.
Hands-On Learning: Montessori materials are tactile and concrete, helping children to understand abstract concepts through physical manipulation.
Global Impact and Recognition
Maria Montessori’s work gained international recognition, and by the 1920s, Montessori schools were established across Europe and North America. She traveled extensively, lecturing and training teachers in the Montessori Method. Despite facing political challenges, including the closure of many Montessori schools in Italy under Mussolini’s regime, her educational philosophy continued to spread worldwide.
Montessori’s impact extended beyond the classroom. She was a passionate advocate for peace and believed that education was the key to creating a more harmonious world. Her later works, such as “Education and Peace,” reflect her commitment to nurturing the whole child and fostering a global community based on mutual respect and understanding.
Lasting Legacy
Maria Montessori passed away on May 6, 1952, but her legacy lives on. Today, thousands of Montessori schools operate globally, from preschools to high schools, continuing to implement her innovative educational approach. The Montessori Method has influenced mainstream education. It has contributed to a greater understanding of child development and the importance of a child-centered approach to learning.
In conclusion, Maria Montessori was a pioneering educator whose work reshaped our understanding of how children learn. Her method, grounded in scientific observation and respect for the child, continues to inspire educators and parents around the world. As we look to the future of education, Montessori’s vision of nurturing independent, curious, and compassionate individuals remains as relevant as ever.
What better way to understand the transformative power of volunteering than by hearing the stories of those who have experienced it firsthand? Volunteers with the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation have countless tales of inspiration, resilience, and the profound impact of their service with one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica. This for both themselves and the communities they’ve served.
“La Carpio taught me that there is poverty in paradise. If you can find the good or make it, you’ll be happy.” – Rowan
English Classes
Take, for example, Sarah, a volunteer from the United States who spent a summer teaching English in a rural Costa Rican village. Despite initially feeling nervous about her ability to connect with her students, Sarah was amazed by their enthusiasm and eagerness to learn. Through her dedication and passion for teaching, she not only helped her students improve their English skills but also formed deep bonds with them that she cherishes to this day.
Healthcare
Then there’s Dave, a healthcare volunteer who traveled from Utah to provide medical assistance in underserved communities. Witnessing the lack of access to basic healthcare services firsthand, Javier was inspired to do everything in his power to make a difference. From conducting health screenings to providing education on preventive care, he helped improve the health and well-being of countless individuals and families, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and care.
“I am grateful to have clean running water.” – Oscar
Environment
And let’s not forget about Megan, an environmental enthusiast who volunteered with the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation to participate in animal and forest conservation. Through her efforts, she helped restore habitats, protect endangered species, and combat deforestation—a critical issue facing Costa Rica’s delicate ecosystems. Maria’s dedication to environmental conservation not only had a positive impact on the environment but also inspired others to take action and become stewards of the land.
“Getting rid of my phone actually gave me more energy.” – Lucas
These are just a few of the countless stories of inspiration and impact that emerge from volunteering with the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation. Each volunteer brings their own unique skills, experiences, and perspectives to the table, yet they all share a common goal: to make a positive difference in the world and leave the communities they serve better than they found them. Their stories serve as a testament to the power of volunteerism to transform lives, build connections, and create a brighter future for all.
Unlock opportunities to create lasting change with the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation. Whether you’re passionate about education, healthcare, environmental conservation, or community development, there are a variety of volunteer programs that are some of the best places to visit in Costa Rica.
“This trip has definitely changed my life and others forever” – Walker L.
Education
For those interested in education, volunteering with the CRHF provides the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children and adults alike. Whether you’re teaching English, leading workshops on STEM subjects, or providing academic support to students, you’ll play a crucial role in expanding access to quality education and empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
Health
If healthcare is your passion, consider volunteering with medical professionals to provide essential services to underserved communities. From conducting health screenings to assisting with medical outreach programs, your efforts can make a tangible difference in improving access to healthcare and promoting community well-being.
Environment
Environmental enthusiasts can join conservation projects aimed at protecting Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity and natural resources. Whether you’re planting trees, working with wildlife populations, or participating in beach cleanups, you’ll contribute to the preservation of the country’s stunning natural landscapes and promote sustainable practices for future generations.
Sustainable Development
For those interested in community development, there are opportunities to participate in projects that address pressing social issues such as poverty, housing insecurity, and food insecurity. From building homes for families in need to supporting local entrepreneurs through microfinance initiatives, your efforts can help create a more equitable and inclusive society for all Costa Ricans.
No matter your area of interest, one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica is volunteering with the CRHF. This offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact while immersing yourself in the beauty and culture of Costa Rica. So why wait? Join us in our mission to create positive change and embrace Pura Vida through volunteerism today.
In the diverse world of education models, the Montessori approach stands out for its unique emphasis on fostering independence, curiosity, and a love for learning in children. One of the distinctive features of this model is the concept of “learning in circles,” a practice that nurtures community, collaboration, and holistic development.
The Concept of Learning in Circles
At its core, learning in circles involves bringing students together in a physical circle to engage in discussions, activities, and collaborative learning experiences. This arrangement symbolizes equality, unity, and inclusion, eliminating the hierarchical structure often found in traditional classrooms where the teacher is the focal point.
Origins and Philosophy
Dr. Maria Montessori, the founder of the Montessori education method, believed that children thrive in environments where they feel part of a community. Learning in circles reflects her philosophy that education should be child-centered, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect among students.
Benefits of Learning in Circles
1. Enhanced Communication Skills:
In a circle, every student has an equal opportunity to participate, share ideas, and listen to others. This promotes active listening and respectful communication, critical skills for personal and academic success.
2. Fostering Collaboration:
Circles create a cooperative learning environment where students can work together on projects, solve problems collectively, and support each other’s learning journeys. This teamwork builds social skills and a sense of community.
3. Encouraging Independence and Responsibility:
With the teacher acting more as a guide than a lecturer, students in a circle take more ownership of their learning. They learn to manage discussions, take turns, and respect diverse viewpoints, fostering independence and self-discipline.
4. Creating a Safe Learning Environment:
The physical arrangement of a circle helps to create a safe and inclusive space where students feel comfortable expressing themselves. This psychological safety is crucial for effective learning and personal growth.
5. Holistic Development:
Learning in circles supports the Montessori aim of educating the whole child—intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically. Activities are often designed to engage multiple senses and encourage movement, aligning with the Montessori principle of hands-on, experiential learning.
Practical Applications in the Montessori Classroom
In a Montessori classroom, circle time can be used for a variety of purposes:
Morning Meetings: Starting the day with a circle meeting to set intentions, discuss plans, and build community.
Storytelling and Discussions: Sharing stories, books, and engaging in thoughtful discussions to enhance comprehension and critical thinking.
Group Activities: Conducting science experiments, art projects, or group games that require cooperation and shared problem-solving.
Reflection and Mindfulness: Ending the day with a circle to reflect on learning experiences, share achievements, and practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques.
Challenges and Considerations
While the benefits of learning in circles are significant, educators must navigate certain challenges:
Managing Diverse Participation: Ensuring that all students feel comfortable and are encouraged to participate can be challenging, particularly in larger groups or with shy children.
Balancing Guidance and Freedom: Teachers must skillfully balance guiding discussions and allowing children the freedom to explore ideas independently.
Adapting to Individual Needs: Recognizing and accommodating the diverse learning styles and needs of each child within the group setting is essential for the approach to be effective.
Conclusion
Learning in circles is more than just a physical arrangement; it is a reflection of the Montessori commitment to creating inclusive, collaborative, and dynamic learning environments. By emphasizing equality, respect, and community, this practice helps cultivate confident, independent, and socially adept learners. As educators and parents explore the benefits of this approach, they contribute to a broader understanding of what it means to educate the whole child, preparing them not just for academic success, but for life.
By embracing the principles of learning in circles, the Montessori model continues to inspire a more holistic, child-centered approach to education. This nurtures the potential within every student and fosters a lifelong love of learning.
