Back to School!
1,264 children and young people received backpacks with school supplies, and 603 uniforms were distributed. The students with the greatest need for these resources were selected.
CEPIA was responsible for delivering these packages to 36 schools and 3 high schools in the cantons of Santa Cruz and Carrillo, including Huacas, El Llanito, Santa Rosa, Villarreal, Linderos, Los Ranchos, Hernandez, San Francisco, San José de Pinilla, Paraíso, Río Seco, El Guapote, 27 de Abril, Paso Hondo, Lagunilla, Hatillo, Trapiche, Portegolpe, El Llano, Lorena, Cartagena, Tempate, Potrero, Brasilito, Matapalo, Playa Grande, La Garita Vieja, La Garita Nueva, El Coco, Santa Rita, Playa Hermosa, Las Palmas, Sardinal, and The Comprehensive Child Development and Daycare Center (CIDAI) ensuring the distribution of these packages to the children.
Here are the photos from the campaign: https://drive.google.com/
Our deepest gratitude to the volunteers who accompanied us throughout this process: Cindy and the nursing students from ULatina, Teresa Schlegl, Sasha Cavet, Anne Roberts, Jodi Gallant, Stuart Sheldon, Angie Mora, Yaneli Aleman, Camille Bourlette, Mariana Trejos, Dorian Henry, and Sergio Baratta.
Vida Mujer
Starting in February, Dr. Mariana Trejos Ramirez took over the coordination of the Vida Mujer program, which focuses on sexual education and access to long-term contraceptive methods, such as the copper IUD. Through campaigns in collaboration with doctors and businesses, the program aims to ensure the right to sexual and reproductive health for women in vulnerable conditions.
On March 10th, the first campaign of the year took place in Huacas, providing sexual education and care to nine with limited resources. We are grateful for the collaboration of Dr. María Fernanda Murillo González from Ginecología Guanacaste, as well as Health & Beauty for providing their facilities. Additionally, we extend our gratitude to Microbiología Navarro y Alpízar for donating HPV tests, enabling early detection of the virus and the prevention of precancerous lesions.
On March 28 and 29, the program will continue in Nosara, where, with the support of Dr. Jennifer Jiménez and Centro Médico Nosara, copper IUDs will be provided.
We also thank Food Bank Nosara for their valuable donation of Pap smear tests, contributing to the early detection of diseases and the well-being of more women.
Psychology and Holistic Health
The Department of Psychology and Holistic Health is composed of three dedicated professionals committed to providing ethical and high-quality services to the beneficiary community. During the first quarter of 2025 (January-March), psychological care was provided to 31 minors through the external psychology service, aimed at coastal communities. The main reasons for consultation among this population included symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, and child sexual abuse.
Thanks to the invaluable collaboration of our volunteer, Cathy Vanhabost, we continue to offer therapeutic yoga. This quarter, 12 adolescents and adults received individual sessions to address emotional and physical challenges.
During February and March, six adults received psychotherapy for diagnoses including depression, anxiety, grief, and other conditions. Additionally, a psychologist accompanied a sexual abuse victim to the public prosecutor’s office. The program also provided support to six victims of human trafficking, offering them the opportunity to heal, rebuild their lives, and find hope for a new beginning.
Regarding psychological care within CIDAI program (the Comprehensive Child Development and Daycare Center), 12 assessments were conducted to determine eligibility for the CIDAI educational program, identifying risk and protective factors within their family environments. A total of 37 children and adolescents received care, with the primary reasons for consultation being behavioral disorders, depressive symptoms, and family conflicts.
Furthermore, parents were encouraged to participate in three modules of the “Guide with Love” program from the Institute on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (IAFA). According to IAFA’s promoter, Yariela Peraza, this program “provides a space for reflection and the exchange of relevant information on psychoactive substances, self-care, and positive discipline. It fosters the development of life skills and strengthens protective family factors, enabling parents to make informed decisions regarding substance abuse issues and better support their children’s transition into a productive and socially fulfilling life.”
Throughout this quarter, 15 young participants in the CIDAI program engaged in three modules of the IAFA program titled “Strengthening My Skills.” This initiative aims to enhance self-awareness, assertive communication, decision-making, emotional management, and critical thinking. It also helps adolescents differentiate between social pressure and genuine emotional connections, fostering personal growth.
The Department of Psychology sincerely thanks the IAFA regional office and volunteer Gipzy Ortiz for their invaluable contributions, which have benefited CIDAI program participants through their preventive workshops.
Lastly, intervention from the National Child Welfare Agency was coordinated in a case of suspected violence against a minor, ensuring the protection and enforcement of children’s rights.
Professional Training and Employability
The Professional Training and Employability Program has carried out various initiatives to strengthen skills and improve job opportunities for adults in rural communities of the Santa Cruz canton.
In January, two key graduation ceremonies were held. Thirteen students completed their training in the Electricity course, out of sixteen enrolled. Meanwhile, the first Plumbing course concluded with the graduation of twelve participants.
Students of the Electrical Installations Course at their graduation ceremony.
Graduates from both specializations had the opportunity to meet with the program’s donors and share how their training has empowered them to secure better jobs, increase their income, and create a meaningful impact on their lives.
Students of the Plumbing Course for Homes and Hotels at their graduation ceremony.
Partnering with the National Institute of Learning (INA) enabled the coordination and delivery of essential job skills courses. The Customer Service course took place between February and March, followed by a module of the Basic Embarkation course in March.
Additionally, the INA Basic English course and a new Electrical Installations course are set to begin at the end of March to further strengthen participants’ skills in key areas for the job market.
Meanwhile, the Business Project, designed for graduates of vocational courses, has made significant progress. This initiative seeks to foster the establishment of a business that drives local economic growth. A finance expert gave members tools to manage profits and losses during mentoring sessions. Key details such as the initial loan amount and payment conditions were defined, bringing the business closer to launching operations.
The collaboration between CEPIA and INA instructors has been key to the success of these initiatives. We sincerely appreciate the National Institute of Learning and the Huacas Integral Development Association for their ongoing support of training programs.
Legal Guidance
Between January and March 2025, the legal counseling program provided the population with advice on legal situations related to domestic violence (economic, psychological, and verbal), as well as institutional violence and criminal matters, allowing each beneficiary to understand their rights and the possible actions they can take to ensure that Costa Rica’s judicial system fulfills its commitment to guarantee and protect their rights.
Additionally, support has been provided for filing complaints, facilitating understanding, communication, and the process of individuals requesting this service. This helps address the complexity that the technical explanations offered by Costa Rica’s legal system might present through its institutions. It also guides the CEPIA population on the necessary documents, potential witnesses, and how to explain their needs to the State institution.
Thus, the fight for change continues to be encouraged to secure the rights of the coastal population in Santa Cruz.
A special thanks is extended to PANI (National Child Welfare Agency) for allowing support for CEPIA beneficiaries during the appointments scheduled by PANI to follow up on their cases, as this represents a collective effort for the well-being and protection of children in Costa Rica.
After School Classes
Swimming. This year, swimming classes were reinstated in Playa Grande, thanks to the support of David Coltran and Hotel Las Tortugas. Local children are developing essential water safety skills while enhancing physical fitness through sports.
Successful Boy Circles The boys’ circles have proven to be a valuable community initiative. Currently operating in eleven communities, the program engages 116 children. Its key objectives are:
- Provide a safe space
- Offer opportunities for children to explore their vulnerability
- Teach them to use their power in a peaceful and equitable way
- Guide them in building healthy relationships with their peers, families, and children their age.
Successful Girls’ Circles There are currently nine girls’ circles in different communities, with a total of 137 participants. The program’s goals include:
- Fostering the development of essential life skills and knowledge
- Providing a safe space
- Strengthening their social support networks
- Promoting their autonomy
The program is supported by Dibujando un Mañana and Las Catalinas, whose assistance has been crucial for its success.
Music School. In February 2025, music education for children began, with 70 students enrolled. To further develop their artistic skills this year, the teaching staff plans to introduce new instruments, such as violins and electric guitars.
English Thanks to the teachers’s enthusiasm, English classes have become an engaging and dynamic experience. Currently, classes are offered in three communities, with four active groups and 61 enrolled children. This program strengthens students’ confidence and promotes essential life skills.
Danza Dance classes remain a great success, thanks to the support of Elevate Movement Studio and Transportes YMCJ Costa Rica.
Art Thanks to volunteer Sue Kallis, art classes were reactivated at the Brasilito Community Center. A total of 14 children are exploring and developing their artistic talents under her guidance. Efforts continue to ensure the sustainability of this activity within the community.
Surf A new surfing activity began in Playa Grande in 2025, allowing eight children to enjoy weekly classes, thanks to Javier de Marzille and Hotel El Manglar. In San José de Pinilla, surf lessons resumed after a six-month break, in collaboration with Snapper School Surf and with support from Constructora Numandi. Currently, nine participants receive weekly lessons.
New Adventure in Surf for Youth The Surf for Youth (S4Y) program continues to provide opportunities for young athletes who train with discipline and dedication to reach their goals. Every Saturday, Don Leo starts the rounds at 5:30 a.m., traveling across different communities to pick up participants and take them to the designated beach. In every session, the young surfers push their limits, tackle challenges, and celebrate their achievements. The day wraps up with fresh fruit and the satisfaction of having experienced another successful session.
S4Y Elite The coastal community is home to talented surfers competing at both national and international levels. However, many struggle to secure sponsorships to cover competition expenses, training, and equipment. Andrea Díaz, founder and program coordinator of S4Y, along with the CEPIA Association, has restructured the program to provide financial support for four community surfers. This effort has been made possible through the generosity of sponsors, donors, and volunteers.
Soccer The children of the Santa Rosa soccer school participated in their first international tournament in January 2025, providing them with a unique and enriching experience.
Acroyoga This year, a new activity—acroyoga—was introduced. Students from La Garita Vieja School have had the opportunity to explore this discipline, which allows them to experience new forms of movement. Parents and teachers highlight the benefits this activity brings to the children. The program is possible thanks to the initiative and support of volunteer Cristina Aguilar.
Jiujitsu The promotion of positive discipline through sport continues to strengthen. Currently, 44 children are receiving weekly jiujitsu classes. This program is supported by the Hero Academy team offering this opportunity to coastal communities.
Playa Grande On February 17, tutoring sessions resumed at Playa Grande School, with 20 children participating under the guidance of tutor Marisol Rosales. These sessions, held Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., focus on enhancing academic and life skills in an engaging and positive environment. By March 21, 138 hours of tutoring had been delivered. During this period, the children participated in academic activities, including group reading, hands-on exercises in math, science, and social studies, and meaningful discussions on core values like empathy and respect. By incorporating educational materials and videos, meaningful learning was encouraged, providing children with valuable tools for personal growth and academic achievement.
Women’s Circle
The work done this quarter in the Women’s Circle is the result of processes developed in previous years. The group’s history has been rediscovered, and a proposal has been created that delves deeper into the journeys they have already traveled.
Inspired by the book Women Who Run with the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés, a curriculum was created for the first semester of the year.
The work began in January with a beautiful workshop titled “The Call of Our Ancestors,” where participants set their intentions for the new year with hope. The archetype of the wolf and the wild woman, along with a deeper connection to instincts, were explored.
In February, the theme was “Being part of a lineage of wise, resilient, and creative women.” In this session, the following points were identified: Some grandmothers and mothers are remembered with great love, some women never knew their grandmothers, others were abandoned by their mothers, some mothers had to fight hard to raise their children, grandmothers had many children and lived through great economic scarcity. Mental health challenges were also discussed, brought on by various situations (violence, grief). These topics will serve as the foundation for future workshops.
To conclude this process and with the support of Familia Holística SRL, a stunning mural was created, capturing the impressions and experiences of the participants from these sessions.
Strengthening Families in Vulnerable Conditions
So far this year, this program has received an average of 20 requests for assistance, 13 of which have been referred to various CEPIA programs for appropriate attention, based on their interests and needs, and referrals to government programs.
There have been 5 family interventions, two of which were related to violence, two cases involving families with special needs and very high vulnerability, and a counseling case regarding health care and attention.
In these cases, Social Work serves as an advisor, helping to strengthen family dynamics and support processes that enhance quality of life. Institutional referrals are also made to the corresponding organizations. Due to the high level of vulnerability faced by two of these families, support was provided in the form of food, clothing, school supplies, and assistance with transitioning to educational centers.
A government-level intervention was conducted to safeguard minors’ rights. Social Work has carried out 17 home visits to evaluate families seeking entry into the Childcare Network. These socioeconomic assessments examine the family’s financial and social conditions, housing, education, and healthcare access. Analyzing these indicators helps determine the family’s level of vulnerability, the risks faced by minors, and their need for program enrollment.
In these cases, Social Work acts as an advisor and collaborates with the new family dynamics, supporting the adaptation process for both the minor and the new caregivers. Institutional referrals to the corresponding institutions are also made.
The other two cases involve 2 families within the witness protection program. They received food, clothing, school supplies, and counseling on transfer to educational centers. It is important to remember that the witness protection program aims to offer victims and witnesses alternatives for procedural and extra procedural protection in cases where required, aiming to reduce impunity, especially the phenomenon of organized crime.
Three reports were made to state authorities regarding abuse and physical violence against minors, situations that should be reported to the appropriate public organizations. One of the reports was related to the lack of identity for minors entering the country irregularly, making it impossible to confirm their identity or their connection with the family caregiver at that time, a situation that violates human rights, such as the right to identity.
Other causes were related to the deprivation of the right to education, referring to families opting not to send their adolescents to school so that they can take care of younger children at home. This also represents a deprivation of rights, especially the right to education, and to some extent, constitutes forced labor.
CIDAI (The Comprehensive Child Development and Daycare Center)
The year 2025 began with new challenges for this program, with the primary goal of creating and providing a safe space for children and youth in highly vulnerable conditions. Among the initiatives carried out from January to March, the introduction of morning circles with all children and their teachers is a fundamental component of the program. These sessions encourage mindfulness and breathing exercises at the start of the day.
January marked the beginning of classes for all groups, contributing significantly to the holistic development of the children. The curriculum includes English, sports, music, body expression, circus arts, computing, art, sound therapy, project-based learning, and Atelier sessions for each group. Additionally, teachers play a key role in guiding daily routines.
As a complementary space, the Atelier has provided non-directive guidance to children and youth, fostering security, trust, and respectful self-expression. This approach serves as a foundation for classroom projects and collaborative learning.
A highlight of the program was an educational trip to Las Pumas Rescue Center and Ponderosa Adventure Park in January. This experience was made possible through the support of volunteers, teachers, parents, and funding from PANI.
We extend our gratitude to all the teachers and instructors who contribute daily to the well-being of CIDAI’s children and youth, as well as to our volunteers and partners: Alejandra Parody, Vesna Todorovic, Rossa Brunno, SalveMonos, and Hero Academy.
Social Work conducted three workshops for early childhood participants (ages 2 to 4) and students from first to sixth grade. These included a storytelling session designed to foster reading, imagination, and learning about emotions, and a fun-filled workshop focused on recognizing and understanding emotions through interactive games.
For the youth group, a workshop on healthy living and nutrition was held, providing an opportunity to discuss habits that contribute to overall well-being. A special thanks to Gipzy Ortiz, a Social Work student from Universidad Libre de Costa Rica, for her invaluable contributions to these socio-educational training sessions.
For families enrolled in the CIDAI program, the Social Work department carries out family interventions, offering a space for active listening and collaborative problem-solving. These interventions are crucial as they improve family communication, reducing misunderstandings and conflicts while allowing each member to express their emotions and concerns in a safe environment.
Family therapy also plays a vital role in strengthening relationships. By working together to resolve challenges, families develop greater empathy and understanding, which is especially beneficial during times of crisis or significant change, such as divorce, loss, or health issues.
Over the past three months, Social Work has assisted 12 families on issues including family neglect, responsible caregiving, hygiene, and household cleanliness, access to contraceptives for proper family planning, school attendance, and support, family dynamics following a change in guardianship, inclusion and care for children with autism, setting boundaries and promoting positive discipline, health education and guidance, and addressing school absenteeism.
Women Entrepreneurs
The year begins with fantastic news!
Thanks to generous contributions, this project is already showing positive results. With continuous effort and a strong desire to improve their products and services, an extraordinary group of women is resuming their journey in 2025, working to turn their businesses into sustainable sources of income and overall well-being. This is the heart of their project.
Recently, these entrepreneurs had the opportunity to welcome a group of twenty women, all business professionals. They enjoyed getting to know each other, interacting, and purchasing handcrafted products made with love and dedication. It was a heartwarming experience that brightened everyone’s day, creating a beautiful exchange of positive energy among women from different backgrounds.
In February, 30 entrepreneurs completed the training process that began in 2024. They actively participated, strengthening both their technical skills and life skills. And there’s even more good news: in 2025, active beneficiaries of this project are receiving Individual Mentorships, specially designed to help them address their unique needs, goals, and challenges.
Human Resources
In the first quarter of 2025, we experienced significant growth in our team of collaborators. We welcomed Brooks Wilson, our new Director of Logistics and Operations, who will bring valuable experience and leadership to our organization.
Additionally, we welcomed 14 highly qualified professionals in various specialties, including teaching, special education, childcare assistance, psychology, medicine, and administrative support. This expansion represents a 28% increase in our total team of collaborators.
To enhance team cohesion and support the integration of new members, we hosted our first team-building event of the year. During the event, Brooks Wilson and Rodrigo Fonseca Arévalo shared their knowledge and experiences in holistic therapies, which were met with great enthusiasm by the team.
We sincerely appreciate Vielka Urbina Briceño’s invaluable contribution as a facilitator, which was instrumental in making the event a success. We also want to highlight the valuable support of Reserva Conchal and its sustainability team, led by Gabriela Meza. A special thanks to Wendy Salazar for efficiently managing the venue, access, transportation, and catering, making it possible for us to hold the event in one of W’s meeting rooms.
The main objectives of the Team Building event were:
- Encouraging mutual understanding among team members, especially new collaborators.
- Promoting awareness of each other’s projects and roles, emphasizing the importance of teamwork.
- Aligning individual goals with group objectives, demonstrating how each role contributes to the bigger picture.
- Raising awareness about the benefits of holistic therapies offered by our organization, allowing participants to experience their effects firsthand.
- Reinforcing our institutional values as the foundation for our conduct and behavior.
We are confident that this Team Building event will enhance collaboration and teamwork, resulting in improved service for our beneficiaries.
Sunflower Group
The Sunflower group has continued to enjoy art, music, and aqua therapy in the pool for the last three months. The art and music classes give the children and adolescents time to express their creativity. In music class, the students have enjoyed learning to play basic music chords and songs.
In March, the group participated in a beach activity with the nonprofit Gnome. Specialists from the United States trained in adaptive surfing, local surf instructors, and volunteers worked to have an amazing beach day.
Special Thanks to Gnome, Hacienda Pinilla Beach Club, Capitan Suizo, and all our amazing volunteers.
Our Sponsors
WHALE Sponsors
Redekop Family Fund
Reserva Conchal
BOMBA Huacas
Gig Kaplan
Villa SOSE
Las Ventanas de Playa Grande
Todd & Mary Heistand Family Foundation
Troper Wojcicki Foundation
Jon & Lisa Reichlin
Jodi Gallant & Stuart Sheldon
John & Donna Sommer
FRAME projects
Bart Van Vooren
Martyn, Debi & Grace Hoffmann
Daley Family Fund
Leschly Family Fund
Ted Alexander
Huifen & Kirk Dunn
VOLO foundation
Auto Mercado El Coco, Auto Mercado Tamarindo y Vindi Tamarindo
Marlin del Rey
Marina Flamingo Foundation
Hellen & Will Hoeg
Nick Alers
Jorge Alers
Morris Family Charitable Foundation
Desarrollo Condominio Numandi
John & Alexandra Moody
ScJohnson
Access Electrical
Asentek
RPM Vacation Rentals
Rotary Club of Oakville Trafalgar
Right at Home
La Gloria
Junta de Protección Social, IMAS, PANI
Thank you SHARKS
Martin Salerno
Hyde Park School
Arlene Kahn
Sidney and Leigh Keay
Rivera del Mar Azul
Bookstore of the Waves
Beachman Bikes
Christie’s International Properties
Witch’s Rock Surf Camp
Studio ALTO
Traylor Portman
Newo International Limitada
Jerry Hirsch
Chris Cantasano
Mar Ramnauth
Las Catalinas
Right at Home
Andrea Diaz Surf School
Thank you DOLPHINS
Matthew Floyd
MargaritaVille Hotel
Hero Academy
El Chante
Rip Jack Inn
Altos de Eros Hotel
Capitan Suizo
Catalina Cove
Ocean Surf and Sun Int Realty
Robert Smith
SPG Holding Corporation
Gasolinera JSM
Greg Host
Jany Helene Cex
Ojos Del Mar
Good Vibes Rock School
Elevate Movement Studio
Nathan Hurst
Jeffrey Christo
Gerard Longval
Hotel Seis Playas
Laboratorio Navarro Alpizar
Wander World Travel
Art of Floors
Florida Surf Film Festival
CHE Boards
Walter Alonso Martin
RE/MAX Costa Rica
Malia Surf Bags
Tamarindo Charters
Victoria Manes
Brad Cooper
Tim Roberts
Daniel Beutler
Don & Wendy Bulmer
Marcos Crespo, CRT Destination Marketing & Management Services
Thank you as well to:
Giovanna Cordero, Law Tax & Insurance LYI, Jennifer Nell, Elizabeth Marulanda, Ignag Francesco, Hasan Yildiz, Lucia Quesada, Claudia Bustos, Villa Langosta del Mar, Patricia Diak, Dilligaf Group, Abel McClennen, Love Tadam Limitada, Nancy Steele, Jessica Marie Barba.
Thank you for your material donations:
Aaron Burcham, Alexandra Saborio, Amanda Zeglinski, Anna Marx, Ansstasis Taylor Munro, David Denler, Cecilia farina, Ohana Photo Shop, Justin Johnson, Isabel Mora, Jen Booton, Jennifer Petrizzi, Johanna Chavarria, Hellen sinisterra, Kristin, Lena Gertsch, Marie, Dinorah Morales, Gabriela bustos mora, Marianela Solano, Lindsey Gaston, Naomi Oberman, Patricia Steus, Pilar Barba, Richard Knight, Robin berger, Carol Chipman, Gilberth Cavallini, Tania Huezo Gutierrez, Valeria monti, Evelyn Gomez Perz, Zac Trahan, Fiorella pignataro, Tasha, Xinia Ocampo, Tiendas La Gloria, Mar Vista, Collin Elliot, DKT, Pequeño Mundo.
