CEPIA Celebrates 20 Years with a Fresh Look
To mark CEPIA’s 20th anniversary, the Community Center in Huacas was completely transformed, ushering in a new chapter of growth and community service.
A heartfelt thank you to Karin and Nick Leschly, and all allies for making this achievement possible! Check out the before-and-after photos!
Vida Mujer: Growing with Purpose
CEPIA also celebrates the opening of the new Vida Mujer consultation room at North Pacific Dental. A space that symbolizes access, dignity, and comprehensive care for women in vulnerable situations. Special thanks to Dr. Karol Trejos and Dr. Diego Vernava for making this possible.
From April to June, thanks to the generous support of professionals, businesses, and donors, the project expanded access to sexual and reproductive healthcare, allowing 45 women in the community to receive free copper IUDs.
Special thanks to Geneva Garcia Ellen for training Dr. Mariana Trejos, who now leads the project launched seven years ago; to financial donors Karin and Nick Leschly, Martyn and Debi Hoffman, and Reserva Conchal for their generous support; to Dr. María Fernanda Murillo of Ginecología Guanacaste and the Health and Beauty team for their dedicated professional assistance; and Bonnie Bradshaw for coordinating patient transportation.
Celebrating Environmental Week
Environmental Week, held in celebration of World Environment Day, stood out for its educational, participatory, and inclusive focus. Children, youth, and adults engaged in eco-conscious activities with a community impact. From workshops to community clean-ups, CEPIA promoted environmental awareness and encouraged sustainable actions throughout the Santa Cruz canton.
The Vida Mujer program supported both the environment and personal well-being by donating reusable menstrual cups, accompanied by educational sessions on menstrual health and its ecological impact. Meanwhile, the Strengthening Vulnerable Families Project distributed 100 native trees to families and schools, thanks to Coopeguanacaste’s generous donation, encouraging reforestation and a deeper connection to nature from a young age.
The Psychology and Holistic Health Program led a cleanup day in the Huacas town square and installed trash bins, involving students and partner businesses. The After-School Program promoted plastic cap collection campaigns and environmental-themed art and music activities, including the creation of instruments from recycled materials and motivational talks to inspire children to protect the environment.
The CIDAI Program hosted activities on urban gardening and self-watering systems, along with creative projects using recyclable materials. The Professional Training Program involved electricity students in community cleanups, highlighting the need for greater environmental intervention in critical areas.
All these efforts reflect CEPIA’s ongoing commitment to educating, empowering, and mobilizing the community toward a more sustainable future.
Professional Training & Employability
The Professional Training and Employability Program continues its mission to strengthen skills and improve opportunities for its participants.
In the past three months, training courses on Basic Seamanship (multiple modules) and Food Handling were completed. An English course is also currently underway. These initiatives were made possible thanks to the National Learning Institute (INA, for its initials in Spanish), whose commitment to CEPIA and the student population helps meet the high demand for learning opportunities in the Guanacaste communities.
The electricity course continues with the goal of ensuring that the current group of students completes their learning journey, opening doors to professional growth.
Electricity students engage in ongoing practice as part of their training.
CEPIA extends its gratitude to all donors, businesses, INA, and volunteers who make this support possible and expand training opportunities for residents.
After-School Classes
Successful Children’s Circles
With over 230 participants, this program continues to transform lives in Santa Cruz’s coastal region. Through fun and meaningful activities, children develop socio-emotional skills, build self-esteem, and create healthy relationships.
We’re proud to announce the opening of a new Girls’ Circle in Paso Hondo and the successful completion of the first Boys’ Circles in Veintisiete de Abril and Cartagena.
This work would not be possible without the dedication of mentors Sugey Álvarez, Sary Barrantes, Raymundo Pérez, and Efraín Ruíz.
Circus Class
In May, a new circus class launched in San José de Pinilla, offering a recreational outlet that blends movement, teamwork, and self-expression.
Through acrobatics and functional exercise, children strengthen motor skills, coordination, and social abilities. Thanks to Jonathan Ugalde and the Baktun Circus and Fire team for making it happen!
Soccer
Over 100 boys from the soccer schools of Veintisiete de Abril, Santa Rosa, Trapiche, Brasilito, and Huacas continue their weekly training as they prepare for an exciting lightning tournament in August, organized by CEPIA and the Tourist Police, to connect neighboring communities through sports and recreation.
Swimming
In addition to two weekly swimming classes led by David Cothran for 20 children from Playa Grande, a new group for teen swimmers has started, thanks to Camila Campos from Connect Ocean and CRIA, who provides access to their facilities.
This initiative and its volunteers work to remove barriers to swimming and teach coastal children and youth vital water safety skills.
Jiu-Jitsu
Children continue to show great dedication and discipline as they strengthen their skills in this martial art.
Special thanks to Coach Ignacio Pacheco and Manager Marta Álvarez of Hero Academy for opening their doors to more than 45 kids from Cartagena, La Lorena, Veintisiete de Abril, and Trapiche.
Surf for Youth (S4Y)
We’re incredibly proud of four young surfers from the coastal community Tomás Patenay, Simón Ruíz, Lía Díaz, and Gal Bepmale, who are participating in the National Surfing Circuit, supported by CEPIA and the tireless efforts of Andrea Díaz and Ximena Bepmale.
At the same time, CEPIA continues nurturing young talent through surf classes in Pinilla and Playa Grande, and supporting eight standout athletes from the intermediate team with weekly training sessions.
On Saturday, June 21, CEPIA and Iguana Surf celebrated International Surfing Day with a fun intro class for 12 teens from various communities.
Dance
Led by Yaz Rosales, the folk dance group in Hernández fosters cultural identity and Guanacaste pride in youth. This quarter, 18 children completed their training with a beautiful performance in Paso Hondo.
Thanks to Transportes YMCJ and Elevate Movement Studio, 10 children and youth from various coastal communities continue receiving quality dance instruction.
Skating with Happy Feet
Over 20 children from Matapalo, Hernández, and Villarreal are refining their skateboarding skills under the guidance of national champion Steven Villarreal.
On June 7, the kids participated in a sports festival organized by Happy Feet, enjoying a day full of fun and physical activity. On June 28, CEPIA joined the celebration of World Skate Day at the Civic Center for Peace in Santa Cruz, thanks to an invitation from the Youth Committee.
Music School
60 children from six communities have taken music classes led by Paul López and Danny Bonilla. Through group lessons and individual special talent sessions, these children are exploring their creativity by playing instruments and even composing original pieces.
The students are now preparing for the upcoming event: “Musical Gathering: Voices and Dreams in Harmony,” to be held on July 8 at CEPIA.
English Classes
English classes in Pinilla, Playa Grande, Huacas, and Brasilito provide children and youth with valuable tools to succeed in today’s fast-paced world. Learning a second language not only opens new opportunities but also fosters a broader, more inclusive worldview.
Art
A new Art Group began in San José de Pinilla, where children explore their surroundings and practice drawing. In Brasilito, 15 students have advanced and are now experimenting with painting under teacher Lindsay Méndez’s guidance.
Thanks to Connect Ocean and Marina Flamingo for hosting a recycled materials workshop that combined marine education with creative sculpture-making.
Acroyoga
After a short break, Acroyoga classes resumed on June 12, led by Cristina Aguilar from Not a Regular Studio. Every Thursday, children from La Garita Vieja “fly through the air,” strengthening their bodies through creative movement and their minds through focus and coordination.
Tutoring & Academic Support
The communities of Brasilito and Playa Grande continue to benefit from CEPIA’s academic support program, taught by Jeison Bermúdez and Marisol Rosales.
With over 65 hours a week dedicated to personalized support and the development of basic literacy and math skills, this program is helping close educational gaps affecting local children.
CIDAI (The Comprehensive Child Development and Daycare Center)
In the second quarter, CEPIA’s CIDAI program continued delivering comprehensive support to 112 children and adolescents aged 2 to 17.
Activities focused on English classes, computer skills, sports, art, and circus, along with strong academic support. Through the Atelier space, participants explored their creativity with artistic activities, cooperative games, and experiences in nature. Workshops included juggling, chess classes, clay modeling, and sensory storytelling, foster teamwork and emotional development.
In April, the program collaborated with students from the National University for reading and writing workshops. Book Day was also celebrated by bringing Costa Rican stories to life, with characters like La Hormiga and La Llorona taking center stage.
May brought new opportunities with the launch of swimming lessons led by Leonardo Almanza, while a sports event in Huacas encouraged interaction and play as powerful tools for holistic development. In June, the inaugural Health Fair brought together 83 participants, both children and adults, who engaged in activities focused on promoting well-being and preventing illness.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to partner organizations and volunteers who generously donated their time, materials, and expertise to enrich every activity. Special recognition goes to volunteer teachers and support staff for their effort and dedication.
Special thanks to: Alejandra Parody, Luciano Sousa, Cindy Gutierrez, and nursing students from Universidad Latina, Pilar Campos from Coopeguanacaste, ADIT Tamarindo, Salvemonos, Halfway Home, Guanacaste Water Center, EDUCARTE Learning Center, National University, and Vesna Todorovic.
Women’s Circle
Between April and June, the Women’s Circle focused on self-care through practices such as conscious breathing, relaxation, and energy healing using quartz bowls, promoting presence in the “here and now”. Participants also enjoyed an exfoliating facial mask and, during a special session, created ritual bracelets with knots, connecting with values like gratitude, inner strength, and self-love through the wisdom of the feminine lineage.
In the session, The Wisdom of the Ancestors, participants engaged in body and voice activation exercises. The session explored the powerful idea that women are natural communicators, a trait passed down through mitochondrial DNA, which is inherited exclusively through the maternal line. This means every woman carries in her cells a living memory of her mother, grandmother, and female ancestors.
We are grateful for the support provided by Wendy Abarca, Jorge Varela, Metzi Hovenga, Larissa Granda, and Mariana Trejos.
Strengthening Families in Vulnerable Conditions
Twelve home visits were conducted, primarily to assess eligibility for the CIDAI (The Comprehensive Child Development and Daycare Center) program. These visits help evaluate family conditions to determine whether children qualify for enrollment and to contribute to improving family well-being.
Twelve additional interventions were conducted with local families, addressing specific family situations, empowering women volunteers who aim to join CEPIA’s Women’s Volunteer Committee, and responding to cases of elder abuse. Given the vulnerability of some cases, assistance was also provided through CEPIA’s thrift shop and food support.
Each intervention provides guidance and mentorship, empowering families with the tools and skills needed to overcome their unique challenges.
Five external referrals were made to connect families with governmental and private organizations for additional support networks. Three additional referrals were made by CEPIA’s Executive Directors and Psychology Department, each involving socio-educational sessions.
Legal Guidance
The Legal Guidance Program achieved encouraging results in the second quarter by providing information and support that empowered individuals to navigate legal procedures and personal challenges with greater confidence, effectively reducing both informational and financial barriers associated with private legal services. During this period, thirteen new cases were received, encompassing five cases of domestic violence—physical, psychological, and economic—four cases of human trafficking, two cases of assault, one case of gender-based violence, and one case of institutional violence.
These were added to the 24 ongoing cases currently being followed up. Additionally, 13 consultations were provided on migration issues and 2 on other matters.
In June, a campaign organized by UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) in Brasilito was a significant contribution to the coastal area. CEPIA and various state entities participated, improving access to services and promoting collaboration and information sharing among organizations. We extend special thanks to UNHCR for their initiative and leadership in the Mobile Information Center event.
Internal efforts were also made by the CIDAI (The Comprehensive Child Development and Daycare Center) team to create legal-educational spaces for children participating in CEPIA’s programs. These sessions encourage social responsibility and aim to reduce behaviors that contribute to conflict in coastal communities.
Sunflower Group
Twelve children and adolescents enjoyed music classes, swimming and beach days, and fun experiences like movie nights on the beach at Hacienda Pinilla. These activities give them valuable time to socialize and engage in creative, physical, and intellectual learning.
Psychology and Holistic Health
The therapeutic yoga sessions led by volunteer Cathy Vanhabost Deweer played a vital role in supporting the healing and overall well-being of individuals receiving psychological care.
Nine women are currently part of the “Care for Victims of Human Trafficking” project, which provides comprehensive support to those who have experienced trafficking, whether sexual, labor-related, or otherwise. A team of five professionals offers legal and psychological support, material aid, educational reinforcement, and mentorship for entrepreneurship.
CEPIA’s psychology team, consisting of four professionals, provided care to 95 children and 36 adults, with each individual receiving between two and ten therapy sessions. The primary reasons for seeking support included behavioral disorders, anxiety, depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation, sexual abuse, and grief.
Ninety-three children and adolescents participated in life skills workshops, sexual abuse prevention, and youth responsibility sessions. Additionally, 34 parents participated in workshops on parental neglect. One family was referred to legal advisory services, and two women were referred to CEPIA’s Women’s Circle.
Finally, a campaign was launched to raise awareness about the uncontrolled use of screens by minors.
We thank volunteer Alejandro Ugarte for his valuable support to our team!
OUR SPONSORS
WHALE Donors
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 Hoffmann
Leschly Family Fund
Ted Alexander
Huifen & Kirk Dunn
Automercardo
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
Warnath Group
Junta de Protección Social, IMAS, PANI
Thank you SHARKS!
Martin Salermo
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
Cutco
Flamingo Realty.
Thank you Dolphins!
Matthew Floyd
Margaritaville Hotel
Hero Academy
El Chante
Rip Jack Inn
Altos de Eros Hotel
Capitan Suizo
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
Patricia Diak
Patricia Kelly
Church Mutual Insurance Company
Marcos Crespo, CRT Destination Marketing & Management Services
Also thanks to our donors:
Tania Huezo Gutierrez, Valeria monti, Zac Trahan, Johanna Chavarria, Evelyn Gomez Perz, Fiorella pignataro, Lindsey Gaston, Sofia Alimohamed, G2 give Global, cindy Weit, Maya latrubesse, Kathleen Evans, Zac Trahan, Mark Rolison, Amy Demick, Carly caprio, Jay Kusombi, Robert Nelson, Jessica, Patricia Strus, Tracy Erickson, Stephanie Hilpert, Ivonne, Murphy Miles, Douglas Gallagher, Kelly mctavish, Sarah spellman, Elizabeth Sandoval, Jorge castro ramirez, David Cothran, Meg m, Leonardo Almanza, Carli Dowell, Nicole Garcia, Witchs rock surf camp, ⁰linda lyon, Ingrid, Mary Dierkes, Melissa bonilla Diaz, Leanne Johnston, Elisa saucier bonilla, Tim roberts, Carli, Marcela Cantllano, Hannah, Kristi riley, Robert break, Murphy Miles, Jeffry lusarita, Alejandra Viquez Rodriguez, Lindsey cantillo, Toyes Sophie, Danielle hollander, Dana Elarte, Dinorah morales, Stephanie Hilpert, Tyra Frederick, Elizabeth Sandoval, Ronald chaves Conejo, Frank Olszewski, Samsntha, Ryan Belisle, Maricela Salazar Rojas, Lee Rudh, Thaid Apuy, Andrea mena, Matteo Silverman, Gloriana Salazar, Sandra Marino, Jeffry lusareta, Murphy, Cinia ocampos Chevez, Jessica Schatten, Carli, Antony Bax, Lisa Vander, Jeff Gaillard, Tim bragg, Jeremy Rasik, Catherine, Dana. Padoka Brazilian Bakery Playa Grande.
