Category Archives: Volunteers

Quarterly Newsletter, Volunteers

CRHF 2025 2nd Quarter Newsletter

It has been a very busy 2025. Halfway through the year already, and we have a lot to tell! We would like to start by dedicating this newsletter to our supporters who continue to provide us with the resources to carry out our programs. During these very challenging times for everyone, your unfettered moral, financial, and volunteer support shows that you are the brave souls who rise above and provide a safety net during difficult moments. Thank you.

We’ve had a busy summer volunteer program!

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🌱 Annual Fundraiser Update

At the end of our 2025 1st quarter newsletter, we announced our annual fundraiser. Unfortunately, due to a number of factors, we canceled the event. We refunded ticket fees to those who purchased them, and we are grateful to the Marriott Hotel for waiving charges.

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📚 Youth Development & Education

We continued our work in youth development, providing tutoring and supplemental support that aligns with the public school curriculum, including English, math, science, history, art, and theater.

We were very excited to finally receive the computers for our computer lab! Donated by our dear friend Julio, we can now offer introductory classes in Word, Excel, and typing to our beneficiaries. This program, led by Marisol, is helping us expand our capacity-building operations. The computer lab is housed in the Centro Modelo building next to the police station.

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🎨 Volunteer Support & Improvements

Spring break brought a group of kind and caring volunteers to our centers in La Carpio. They helped with various tasks, including painting the Centro Modelo and the police station.

The Centro Modelo and all our centers received much care during this time. Spring cleaning brought a fresh look for our beneficiaries and volunteers to enjoy. We cleared out two storage closets, creating better spaces for Drs. Joe and Patrick and friends to carry out their chiropractic work.

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👵 Abuelas & Community Theatre

The abuelas continue to put on new and creative plays sharing their stories. These performances inspire and provide emotional support to the senior population of La Carpio.

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📲 Social Media Initiatives

Last year we featured Success Stories from the Field, highlighting how our work creates sustainable solutions. This year, we’ve launched a new series on Early Childhood Development, aiming to create a more educational and inspiring social media space. Don’t forget to like, share, and tag us!

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🛏 Bunk Bed Program

We continue to provide bunk beds through one of our critical needs programs. While demand is not what it was when we started 20+ years ago, we still find urgent situations in La Carpio and with new arrivals that require improved sleeping conditions. Thanks to all the volunteers who participate—a simple act can change a life.

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🫱 Volunteer Education & Partnerships

As part of our secondary mission, we work with volunteers to show them the realities we live every day and foster greater sensitivity to our beneficiary populations. We demonstrate our model of development and discuss the challenges faced by La Carpio, Costa Rica, and beyond.

We were excited to welcome for our summer volunteer program:
• Franz and Elizabeth, who brought us several volunteer groups this year that have greatly contributed to youth development. Their ongoing support has been vital in enriching the educational experiences of our children.
• A wonderful group of middle school volunteers from the European School. We thank them for their fundraising efforts, donations, and the work they did painting the computer lab and police station, as well as supporting youth development.
• Jacob, a pre-med individual volunteer, is sorting through years of medical records from our former clinic. His work helps preserve our legacy while gaining valuable insight for his medical career.
• Friends from Central Connecticut State University, who contributed to painting efforts and learned about our community.
• Texas Tech honors students, who shadowed our collaborators across food, shelter, health, education, and sports programs. They also gave a professional presentation to their fellow scholars about our main pillars of food, shelter, and health.

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💛 Health, Wellness, & Relief

Our health education program has been a key focus this quarter. Led by Gail and Steven, these sessions provide preventative healthcare education, teaching about:
• body systems and organ function
• healthy nutrition, including using smoothies for better health
• the benefits of honey and other nutritious foods
• hormones related to menopause and other health concerns

Steven creates helpful visuals, and together they answer participants’ questions to promote better health awareness.

Our visiting doctors program returned, and alongside it we distributed hygiene kits to reinforce the importance of self-care and prevention.

Our partnership with Visit.org resulted in the donation of 50 teddy bears, which have already been distributed to our regular students, and the hygiene kits that complemented our health outreach efforts.

Our elderly population especially benefited from the interaction with the yoga teachers from Lakshmi Rising, who helped them gently stretch dormant muscles, bringing comfort and vitality.

Our chiropractor friends Joe, Patrick and their spouses Nicolle and Ericka, have been a delight to host as part of our family volunteer program. They have supported youth development and the bunk bed program.

🪶 Casa Quetzal

We have some very exciting news coming for Casa Quetzal. We have been a bit quiet on this, but we continue to open our doors to the world from our Casa Quetzal Conference and Retreat Center.

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💬 A Final Word

Overall, we had a productive and inspiring spring 2025. We are deeply grateful for everyone who visited and supported us during these challenging times. We always aim to make visits mutually beneficial—enriching both visitors and our community.

Our programs support over 500 youth in La Carpio through education and sports, and we provide fresh fruits, vegetables and meats, home improvements, emergency medical care, seed money for small business enterprises, and emergency relief to over 500 people a week.

👉 Please consider supporting our work this year—whether through a donation or volunteering. Your help ensures we can continue addressing food security, safe housing, stronger health, quality education, sports, and emergency relief.

📧 Contact us at fundacionhumanitariacr@gmail.com to learn how you can help.
We offer tax-exempt donation options in both Costa Rica and the United States.

Thank you for your continued generosity and for shining your light when it’s needed most!

Volunteers

Make a Difference This Summer 2025: Volunteer with the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation

If you’re seeking a meaningful way to spend your summer, consider joining the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation (CRHF) in our mission to uplift vulnerable communities across Costa Rica. Our summer volunteer program offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture while contributing to impactful projects in education, healthcare, and community development.

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🤝 Why Choose CRHF’s Summer Volunteer Program?

Established over 30 years ago, CRHF has been a cornerstone in providing support to marginalized populations in Costa Rica. Our summer volunteer program is designed to engage individuals in hands-on projects that address real community needs. Whether you’re passionate about teaching, healthcare, or infrastructure, there’s a place for you to contribute meaningfully.

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🏥 Health Initiatives

In the summer of 2024, CRHF collaborated with medical students from Michigan State University to provide healthcare services to over 300 patients in just four days. Volunteers assisted in medical consultations, referrals, and treatments, showcasing the profound impact of dedicated service. 

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📚 Educational Outreach

Education is a powerful tool for empowerment. CRHF volunteers have the opportunity to teach English, lead STEM workshops, and provide academic support to both children and adults. By fostering a love for learning, volunteers help pave the way for brighter futures.

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⚽ Sports Program: Building Confidence Through Play

CRHF’s summer volunteer program emphasizes the value of sports as a tool for empowerment. Volunteers help run soccer clinics, organize community tournaments, and lead recreational games that foster teamwork and confidence. In underserved areas like La Carpio and Bajamar, sports provide an outlet for youth to stay active, develop discipline, and build social skills in a supportive environment. As one volunteer put it, “Seeing the kids light up when we arrive with soccer balls and games is one of the most rewarding parts of the program.”

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🌱 Youth Development: Nurturing Growth with the Education

In addition to sports, CRHF is deeply committed to youth development through early childhood education and personal empowerment. Volunteers have the chance to support programs based on the Montessori method, a child-centered approach that encourages exploration, independence, and self-directed learning. At CRHF’s educational centers, young children engage in hands-on activities that develop cognitive and emotional skills in a nurturing environment. This approach fosters resilience and curiosity—qualities that can transform their futures. Volunteers often assist in classrooms, help design creative learning materials, and offer one-on-one attention to children in critical stages of development.

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🛠️ Community Development

Beyond education and healthcare, CRHF’s summer volunteer program includes projects aimed at improving community infrastructure. From building homes to enhancing public spaces, volunteers work alongside locals to create lasting change. 

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🏞️ Supporting Indigenous Communities

CRHF’s summer volunteer program also extends to indigenous regions such as Alto Chirripó, Quitirrisi and Talamanca where volunteers support culturally respectful and sustainable initiatives. Projects often include improving access to education, helping with basic infrastructure, supporting traditional health practices, and engaging in cultural exchange. Volunteers hike into remote areas to deliver supplies, assist in school settings, and collaborate directly with community leaders to identify priorities. These experiences are deeply enriching and offer a rare opportunity to build relationships grounded in mutual respect and learning. As one participant shared, “Working alongside the Cabécar people opened my eyes to a whole new way of life—and a deeper understanding of what it means to serve.”

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🌟 Volunteer Testimonials

Volunteers often describe their experiences with CRHF as life-changing. One participant shared, “This trip has definitely changed my life and others forever.” Such testimonials highlight the profound personal growth and community impact achieved through the program.  

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📸 A Summer to Remember

CRHF’s social media channels are filled with snapshots of volunteers engaging in meaningful work and forming lasting bonds. An Instagram post from August 2024 captures the essence: “Wrapping up an incredible summer filled with community, collaboration, and care!” 

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🌍 Join the Movement

Embarking on a summer volunteer program with CRHF is more than just a trip; it’s a journey of personal and communal transformation. By dedicating your time and skills, you become part of a legacy of positive change in Costa Rica.

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📅 How to Get Involved

Ready to make a difference this summer? Visit CRHF’s volunteer page to learn more about our summer volunteer program and how you can apply. Embrace the spirit of “Pura Vida” and contribute to a cause that truly matters.

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Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation, Volunteers

CRHF 2025 1st Quarter Newsletter

Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation
2025 First Quarter Newsletter
Working together for a better world

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Volunteers

After a busy end to 2024, we bid farewell to our Amigos Eye Care friends. Thanks to their efforts, over 300 people received eye care. Before they left, we visited our indigenous friends in Quitirrisi to share knowledge and culture with our visitors from the Pacific Northwest.

In January, we welcomed a powerful group of young women from Rutgers University. They built and delivered bunk beds and participated in youth development and food bank programs. They also had the chance to learn about our Model of Development.

Gregerly, an individual research volunteer from Belgium, joined us to gather data for his thesis on disparities in development in Costa Rica. We were happy to connect him with local communities and share our insights. We look forward to sharing the results of his research.

Our January clean-up and reorganization efforts in the La Carpio centers were a success. Volunteers from the University of Connecticut, Global College and the Lakshmi Rising yoga group helped us clean, sort, and hold garage sales. Thanks to them, the centers are now bright, functional spaces for sharing, learning, and caring.

Long-time individual volunteer Stana returned once again and made a huge impact. Her background in education supported our local teachers, and her organizational efforts helped all the centers look their best!

Also with the creativity of full time volunteer Steven we gave regular classes on self help health care to children, adults and elderly.

With the local police station in La Carpio, we worked to raise morale. Alongside volunteers from Pepperdine and the yoga group, we painted the holding cell, practiced yoga, and held space for conversation and healing.

Fleur, a Belgian architecture student, visited to learn more about indigenous architecture. She supported many of our programs and also helped welcome a group to Casa Quetzal.

USC brought joy during a pre-Easter egg hunt, where children painted eggs and experienced the unique magic of a CRHF Easter Bunny celebration!

Lakshmi Rising continues to support us with yoga retreat groups that understand the importance of collective well-being. Ubuntu: I am because we are.

Our chiropractor family friends returned to provide much-appreciated services to our La Carpio populations. They treated 60 patients a day over 5 days, offering care, relief, and connection. We’ve begun building a relationship for ongoing follow-up support with patients they saw last year, and we’re excited to welcome them—and more of their family and friends—again in the coming months.

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Programs

Montessori & Environment

Our Montessori program continues to thrive—providing a nurturing space for children to learn and grow. This quarter, we focused on environmental education, nature care, and science activities like experiments and theatre.

La Libertad

We were thrilled to welcome back the Alan Stevenson School from NYC for the 14th year! They repaired a road, engaged with our youth, and donated a laptop and projector.

The Saturday Program welcomed two amazing local Tica volunteers, Adriana and Allona, who helped with activities and got to know La Carpio. Adriana previously volunteered as an interpreter for the Amigos Eye Care team.

Thanks to a donation of clay from Kattia, the children made beautiful creations—everything from butterflies to cups!

Uvita Family Wellbeing Center

We continue to be challenged by the Uvita Family Wellbeing Center, and we continue to find creative and innovative solutions. We have now partnered with a local woman who is working on securing all the official permits to open the center as an after-school program. We’ve agreed that at least 20% of the students will receive scholarships based on community need. With this approach, the woman will develop a small business, and we can continue to support the youth who need it most. We hope to resume collaboration with volunteer groups in the area in the coming years.

Sports League

Our sports league now serves 150 youth and remains one of the strongest in the country. In a community where kindness can be misunderstood as weakness, our youth now have strong, positive role models and a healthy outlet.

Bunk Beds, a New Car & Evolving Needs

Our bunk bed program continues on an as-needed basis. As La Carpio progresses, the needs are shifting from basics like food and housing to more complex initiatives—job training, capacity building, empathy, and right action.

Thanks to our generous supporters, we purchased several mattresses and now have a modern, fuel-efficient CRHF vehicle to help with deliveries.

Food Program

The Auto Mercado Food Program continues to run 365 days a year. In 2024, we provided over one million food rations, ranging from simple sandwiches to full baskets.

To thank Auto Mercado, we created a collage of gratitude from our beneficiaries.

Global Connections through Montessori

Our Montessori kids received a heartfelt surprise: 100 cards of love were created for children in the U.S. who lost their homes in hurricanes and fires. These cards will accompany stuffed animal comfort toys heading to Tennessee, North Carolina, and California.

And our kids received their own stuffed animals as a beautiful gesture of kindness returned.

Centro Modelo

With help from Lakshmi Rising, Stana, Global College, and others, we reorganized and beautified Centro Modelo. We also welcomed a new teacher, Gloria, who is stepping in as Marisol pursues her next adventure.

Computer Lab

Responding to evolving community needs, we’re launching a new tech education initiative. With ten donated refurbished computers on the way, we’ll offer weekly lessons in typing, Microsoft Office, and even basic website building.

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Indigenous Connections

In partnership with Bob, Noel, and others, we visited Amubri with book donations for Noemi—continuing a relationship that began with Gail’s Peace Corps work in 1979.

Fleur’s architecture journey continued with a visit to Leonel and Jenny of the Cabécar community. They are building an arts and crafts store with local redwood in front of the Lucas Drummond Cultural Center, which CRHF helped build in memory of Lucas.

We’re excited to support this initiative and look forward to sending visitors.

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Casa Quetzal

Casa Quetzal continues to evolve naturally. We’re preparing the land to welcome future groups, while focusing on sharing indigenous knowledge and collaborating with our Huetar neighbors.

During spring break, we hosted groups from Georgia State University and North Florida State University. They studied topics such as indigenous education, sustainability, and rights.

We’ve also welcomed individual volunteers like Fleur and Stana, all of whom agree: Casa Quetzal is a sacred space for reflection, healing, and community.

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Highlights & Happenings
• We finalized our 2024 Year-End Report and “2024 in Numbers”—check them out on our website clicking here.
• We joined the Women’s March on March 8th representing La Carpio.
• Gail participated in the Wells Mountain Initiative board meeting. WMI continues to support CRHF through 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsorship—without charging fees.

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Collaborators

Our incredible team continues to shine:
• Fatima and Angelica provide outstanding care and tutoring in Montessori.
• Doña Antonia keeps everyone well-fed with nutritious meals.
• The food bank crew—Ana, Harold, Milagro, Alcides, and a growing young team—are thriving in their micro-enterprise model.
• Our new Centro Modelo teacher is building her capacity while honoring the work Marisol left behind.
• The La Libertad program remains strong, offering after-school support and weekend activities.

Gail and Francisco continue to handle administration and fundraising.

Due to continued support of our major donors we continue to provide hunger preventión, rent relief, schooling, counseling and small business support for single mothers, special needs children, refugees, elderly and unemployed men.

Together, we honor our diverse backgrounds and beliefs in our shared mission to build a better world.

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Looking Ahead

Casa Quetzal is becoming the retreat and conference center Gail envisioned—offering a place to heal, grow, and collaborate.

We’re excited to keep growing in La Carpio and beyond. We’ll continue to support indigenous communities through education, health, culture, and economic opportunity.

Next month in May, we will be hosting our Annual Fundraiser Gala. We would like to invite everyone to join us on Sunday May 11th at the Hotel Marriott in San Antonio de Belen. The hotel has been a supporter of the CRHF from the days of the Street Kids program, where they offered many their first jobs in the kitchens and others.

Thank You for Sharing Our Dream! We can’t wait to see what the rest of 2025 brings.

Volunteers

Inauguration of the Nari Health Clinic

How it Started

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.

Interested in supporting

Volunteers

Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica Vol. 3 – Inspiring Change: Stories from Volunteers with the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation

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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.

Volunteers

Best Places to Visit in Costa Rica Vol. 2 – Volunteering Opportunities with the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation

Making an Impact in Costa Rica

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.

Charitable Contribution, Success Stories, Volunteers

TBT ThrowBackThursday – La Promesa

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The year was 1997, the CRHF had just been legally founded in Santa Ana. Our volunteer work was centered in this area of Costa Rica. Down the street from the Foundation/Educational Resource Center was a squatter community of around eighty families. (more on the ERC in future posts)

The Beginnings

We mainly focused our volunteer work in La Promesa with single women heads of household, some of who were Nicaraguan refugees. The houses were all made of tin and some wood with dirt floors.

This is when our bunkbed program started with the Boy Scouts of CR. We also had our first theatre presentation called “Your Home Is Where Your Heart Is”

Reallocation

After more than 4 years of squatting the land, the government institutions were able to come to a peaceful resolution and reallocate the community to a low-income housing development. The CRHF served as a mediator and was able to help with the transition.

The houses the government agencies built are a simple but durable design made of prefabricated concrete. The CRHF, with the help of numerous volunteers helped paint and beautify the community, including gardening and cleaning-ups.

Right Action

In 2003 we began the construction of a two-story community center (seen in the picture) which culminated in 2005. This in part thanks to the efforts of national and international donors and volunteers. This center served as one of our first Family Well-Being Centers (FWBC). This is a model we have replicated throughout some of the most impoverished and marginalized communities in Costa Rica.

The community as a whole then reached what our Poverty Reduction Model of Development (PREMDEV) would call a level of Right Action. This means we were no longer needed as they were able to become self-sufficient in a sustainable way. By that time we had already began working in La Carpio and with children living on the street.

Transparency

You can read more in the 2005 year end report, the FWBC’s and the PREMDEV on the CRHF.org website. By clicking on the magnifying glass, you can search for this information using keywords such as “Family well being” or “La Promesa”.

As part of our transparency pillar, we try to make all our projects and financial reports as available as possible. Financial reports are available upon request. Please consider volunteering with the CRHF and for your donations to nonprofits in Costa Rica. Click here to donate or below for paypal. Thank You For Sharing Our Dream!

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Volunteers

Centro Modelo and Volunteers’ Farewell

The volunteers’ farewell… All I can think of when I enter our Centro Modelo classroom is the classic children’s song ” Los pollitos dicen pio pio pio cuando tienen hambre cuando tienen frio.” The little chickies say peep peep peep when they are hungry when they are cold.

With their little yellow shirts they do look just like a flock of baby chick’s. They are in constant motion, interacting with each other, curious about everything and absorbing everything in their environment.

We have some good parenting going on too. All the kids are neatly dressed. Freshly bathed and combed. And each one has their own little set of plate, cup and fork and spoon.

Here, they are celebrating the farewell party for our two volunteers, Ali and Quincy. I was so happy to see the delicious and enticing fruit feast prepared by the parents. Each child got to choose the fruits they wanted and amazingly not one plate was empty after snack time.

I felt these kid’s hunger to learn and to creatively seek activities. Their tenderness was so moving. Teacher Marisol is giving these children a wonderful transition from home to the beginnings of school life. We will really miss the kind assistance of the two volunteers. And I’m pretty sure they will miss CRHF too.

Volunteers

El Centro de Amigos para la Paz

I had a good meeting with Luis and Marcela yesterday. The thing is, when you get three ticos together for a meet you have to first spend a lot of time reminiscing..better known as gossiping. We wound around the mulberry bush about when the house was built, what famous families lived there…etc.

Out came the old photo albums. And we found pictures of the founders. We even found the original founding papers of the Centro de Amigos para la Paz…CAP.

After consuming some tea and biscuits we got down to business. And did a walkabout the house. I must say I was impressed with how much care had gone into the maintenance of the rooms etc.

So… Karen and Olga joined us and somehow we wound up reconfiguring the whole main room. We unblocked the windows, reorganized the wall hangings and created spaces for different uses. The whole place lit up.

We are a mighty force. And it feels so right. Luis and Marcela were guardedly enthusiastic. But when they saw us actually DO something I think they were quite …astonished.

Anyhow…there is a lot to do. But..we work with resonance and strength and harmony. And so it is. Stay tuned. It is all enfolding as it should.

Volunteers

New Year 2024 Day 1 Celebration and Birthdays

What an amazing way to start the New Year! Volunteers Vicki Schwarz and her friends sponsored a fantastic New Year party in order to celebrate her and Dans birthdays and to teach children about healthy eating…

Doña Antonia came through with a delicious tomatoes-only spaghetti sauce with spiral noodles. the 50 kids got a glass of milk to drink along with it. The desert was a fresh fruit cup with some ice cream and a home baked cookie.

We had fun singing together and Adolfo gave his life story to the kids. He emphasized belief in yourself, never give up and accept help when needed. An extra bonus was Alcider also had his birthday.

Each child was given a lovingly wrapped present of a notebook crayons or colored pencil or clay. Three children got a special gift that was raffled off. Our Automercado food program supplied a yummy chocolate cake. As the kids left they all got a hug from all the volunteers and then we sat down to eat together. Because we were starving.

A few tears of joy were shed. What a loving way to spend a birthday and a beginning of a new year. Thanks to our amazing team who set up the room, gathered the children and made sure everything went smoothly. Thanks so much to the volunteers and their coordinator Vicki for their wonderful new year 2024 first day.

ps. this was a party created with love and higher consciousness to celebrate birth and new beginnings. And it was fun and stress free. Everyone had a part to play and we all got along great. Mutual respect and true caring. No power plays on this day.
True gratitude.