Tag Archives: San Jose

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

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.

Education

#EdWed Education Wednesday – Learning in Circles: A Cornerstone of Montessori Education

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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:

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.

Education

#EdWed – Education Wednesday and Dia del Trabajador in Costa Rica

#EdWed. This week we are highlighting Costa Rican Labor Day via the teaching in our Family Well-Being Centers. We are very grateful for the group of collaborators, volunteers and teachers who have joined us over the years to serve the populations we work with. Feliz Dia del Trabajador!

Montessori education is renowned for its unique approach to nurturing children’s holistic development. At the heart of this approach are the four primary goals that Montessori teachers strive to achieve:

Fostering Independence

Montessori teachers aim to cultivate independence in their students by providing an environment that encourages self-directed learning and exploration. Through carefully designed materials and activities, children are empowered to make choices, solve problems, and take ownership of their learning journey.

Promoting Self-Discipline

Central to Montessori philosophy is the belief that self-discipline emerges naturally when children are engaged in purposeful activities that align with their interests and developmental needs. Montessori teachers guide students in developing inner discipline by setting clear boundaries, modeling respectful behavior, and encouraging self-regulation.

Cultivating a Love for Learning

Montessori classrooms are vibrant spaces where curiosity is celebrated, and a passion for learning is ignited. Teachers inspire a lifelong love of learning by fostering an environment of joy, wonder, and discovery. They encourage exploration, experimentation, and inquiry, nurturing children’s innate desire to understand the world around them.

Nurturing Social Responsibility

Montessori education places a strong emphasis on the development of social skills and empathy. Teachers guide students in building meaningful connections with their peers and the larger community, fostering values of kindness, cooperation, and respect for diversity. Through collaborative projects, group activities, and opportunities for reflection, Montessori teachers help children develop a sense of social responsibility and global citizenship.

By prioritizing these four goals, Montessori teachers create enriching learning experiences that not only prepare children academically but also equip them with the essential skills and qualities needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

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.

Health

Happy Birthday to Alan

32 years old and still with us in spite of meeting death two years ago by falling out of a third story construction site. He literally fought for life and limb. He did lose part of his right leg…but saved his life.

We celebrated with a family lunch at KFC at a venue on the third floor. He sat by the window. Here is his wife, her 4 year old daughter and two sons and Alan’s son. Boy those kids can eat! We got a super mega bucket. They scarfed down everything but the very bones.

Zuly says she tells the kids..let’s go out to eat… so she cooks up some rice and beans and they put a blanket on the floor of their little balcony..and they are out to eat!

We pull up into the parking lot in my car and all tumble out…the old lady, the one legged man, the woman with an unusual face, the tiny girl, the very tall boy and the very thin boy. Just like a circus clown car.

After we eat we go to the outdoor park down below and play hide and seek. I won every time because I’m sneaky and always get to the home free tree first.

Success Stories

Success Stories From The Field – The Electric Saw Accident

One and a half years ago he was using a round electric saw and it somehow got out of control. He cut his foot and hand and was bleeding profusely. His family was in a panic…the clinic was a 30 minute walk away. No one they knew had a car. And suddenly there were dozens of little kids swarming around me. And my car. “Por favor.” “Please please take him to ….the clinic.”

So we drove up there and I hardly got there before he was fainting and losing a lot of blood. From the clinic he was given an ambulance and off he went.

I didn’t see him after that..until yesterday. And there he was with two hands and two feet. What was the first thing he said to me? ” I’m so sorry I got your car all full of blood”. Imagine that. I just said..”the blood got cleaned up. I’m just glad to see you alive. ” And he looked at me and said, ” without those minutes you gave me I would not be here.” We looked at each other and in my head I heard Bob Marley singing…is this love is this love is this love is this love..and so it is.

Please consider donating to our emergency relief funds so we can continue to provide assistance in emergency situations.

Volunteers

Family Volunteer Stories – Community Service and Vacations

El Tope Nacional

Yesterday our volunteer family of six..four kids and mom and dad…needed an activity. We found out it was the day of the “Tope de San Jose 2023” or the San Jose 2023 Horse Parade. And as a bonus, the starting was just two blocks away from their Peace Center Hostel. So we walked over there. It was amazing to be so near to all the horse energy

The animals were astoundingly beautiful and majestic. The relation between the horses and their riders was like something out of mythology. A perfect balance of strength. The women riders were calm and composed and definitely in charge of their horses. We saw ponies and horses who were so large you would need a ladder to get on them. And the tails and manes and feet of the horses were braided and intertwined with brightly colored satin ribbons.

There were over 2000 horses and riders. A virtual invasion of San Jose. Full of fierce and controlled strength. But.. cheerful and peaceful, as Costa Ricans should be.

But..don’t mess with them…As our national anthem says..if somebody tries to detain our glory, you will see our people rise up to protect our honor. These horses would make a formidable foe.

As an added bonus right on the corner where the horses walked by, we found a little restaurant called Cahuita. This is the name of the Caribbean village where the family will be staying for a few nights. So we sat in their window eating patti, patacones with guacamole, fried yucca, cheese squares and drinking frog water and lemonade while listening to Bob Marley sing ” Is this love is this love is this love”

Lost Fossils

And then…since I noticed that these folks were quite adventurous we took off to visit fossil land. This is a place I’ve been to years ago…where there is a crystal cave and fossils of ancient shellfish. 

We arrived at the place and were greeted by four very sweet and friendly “guard” dogs. And  no human to be found. It was eerily and deliciously intriguing, and a bit scary at the same time. 

We walked on rock roads and abandoned paths and  buildings. We discovered a  building where lye was produced, an abandoned soccer court, a decrepit water slide, remnants of a zip line, leaf  cutter ants, antlions, a sparkling clear stream filled with little  butterflies to wade in and..oh yes..fossils galore. 

Dad is a geologist and rock star..so he was in his element  explaining all the history of the rocks and fossils. This experience was like a return to childhood before cellphones and computers got in the way. We took delight in all the unexpected treasures we found. 

On the drive out we did find a guy who told us that they had stopped operations because of covid and the owner just passed away three months ago. What a hidden gem this place is. 

We then rode down the hill and dropped the family off at the bullfighting arena. 

What’s Next

Tomorrow we are off to the Cabecar indigenous reserve, port city Limon, Caribbean village Cahuita and jungle adventure Tortuguero. I think this family is having the vacation of a lifetime.


Volunteers

2023 CRHF Christmas Party – An Unforgettable Day

Some days are just meant to be unforgettable. Our donor Gary has given us a generous Christmas party for many years . But this time his assistant had an incredibly plucky idea…Let’s just take everyone to Parque de Diversiones – the national amusement park .

So.. with great trepidation and a pinch of hope we potted our scheme. The ever patient Katya who is our assistant began to make the list. And wound up checking it much more than twice. Our faithful teachers vetted every single person. And the meticulous Natasha took care of all the details having to do with the Park, payments and protocols.

Somehow – with help From above, we pulled it off. Nearly six hundred children and parents…who live near this financially unaccessible national amusement park, who pass by it on their way to and from anywhere, were able to enjoy a day of pure excitement and joy. They walked and rode and ate to their heart’s content. And, we didn’t lose anyone and no one got hurt.