Volunteers

A decade of collaboration!

A week to remember: Fountain Valley School’s annual visit to Las Casas de la Selva

Every year, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of the Fountain Valley School of Colorado to Las Casas de la Selva in Patillas, Puerto Rico. This year marked over a decade of collaboration, learning, and growth—a true testament to the strong bond between our two communities. As we reflect on this past week, our hearts are filled with gratitude and joy for the hard work, laughter, and memories shared.
10-15th March 2024

Unity and achievement: more than just a visit

This week was a blend of effort, enjoyment, and education. Under the warm Puerto Rican sun, we worked alongside an incredible group of teenagers from Fountain Valley School. They showed remarkable enthusiasm and dedication in every task, contributing significantly to our environmental and community projects.

A heartfelt thank you goes to Suzanne Tibbets and Blake Pelton, the dedicated school staff members who guided and cared for these amazing teens throughout their stay. Their leadership and support were pivotal in making this experience a success for everyone involved.

Culinary delights and teamwork

We extend our gratitude to Monique Nieves for providing delicious and nutritious meals that fueled our days. Her culinary skills kept everyone happy, healthy, and ready for the day’s challenges. A special shout-out to Mercury for his invaluable assistance in the kitchen and with various crew-work tasks—your help was indispensable.

Celebrations and learning experiences

One of the week’s highlights was a musical birthday celebration, featuring the talents of guitarist Andrés Rúa, and flautists Nina Assimakopoulous, and Raquel Torres-Arzola. Their beautiful music added a magical touch to our evening, which was also a birthday for two of the students, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you for sharing your artistry with us.

We also extend our thanks to Andrés Rúa and Joerge Jahn for their engaging woodworking show and tells. These sessions were not only educational but also inspiring, offering a hands-on experience in craftsmanship and highlighting sustainability.

Environmental impact

Throughout the week, our collective efforts focused on environmental conservation and improvement. Together, we planted trees in various areas, including in an area affected by a landslide, cleared and organized the nursery, potted 250 vetiver slips, cleared invasive vines from a new planting of vetiver, and dug a significant trench for a new retaining wall at the lower homestead. Each of these tasks is vital to our ongoing efforts to protect and enhance the natural beauty of Las Casas de la Selva.

Heartfelt appreciation

As we say goodbye to another memorable visit, we want to express our deepest gratitude to each individual who contributed to this special week. Your hard work, enthusiasm, and spirit of cooperation have left a lasting impact on our community and the environment. To the students and staff of Fountain Valley School of Colorado: thank you for continuing this wonderful tradition. Your visits are a highlight of our year, and we look forward to many more to come. Here’s to the next decade of friendship, growth, and making a difference together!

Overnighters! March 2024

Democracy Prep at the Agassi Campus (DPAC) students joined us for one day and night and helped with the movement of 300 concrete blocks, an activity that required not only physical strength but also teamwork and coordination. It was a sight to behold as students, teachers, and community volunteers worked side by side, their efforts synchronized in a dance of collaboration. The blocks they moved were heavy and the sun unforgiving, but the spirit of determination and camaraderie among the students made the challenge surmountable.

The other task was to clear up one of the garden areas that received all the clay and broken rubble from a path building earlier this year! This group went at it and transformed the place! Thank you all for your hard work. This garden is being prepared for the planting of some rare endemic species.

Our students ate very well, thanks to Monique Nieves, who delighted us with fine cuisine! Thank you to Mercury, who took the students to the river and made a fire for them to enjoy at night. Thanks to school staff Lesley (who came last year!), Toy, and Armando.

Appreciations to Vamonos staff for getting the group here safely: Mayra, Cruz, and Roberto.

Many Hands! March 2024


In early March 2024, a group of twenty-nine students, aged 13 to 14, from the Principia School in Missouri, joined us for a few days. They actively participated in our projects under favorable dry weather conditions, allowing us to make significant progress. The Principia School is a private, coeducational institution focused on college preparatory education, offering innovative programs from early childhood through twelfth grade.

We want to express our heartfelt thanks for the wonderful time we had together and for all the help provided.

Special appreciation goes to John, Ben, Lauren, and Lyndsey from the Principia staff, who expertly and kindly supervised the students. Their fair and effective management made our collaboration smooth and productive. Additionally, we’re grateful to Vamonos staff members Cruz, Mayra, and Roberto for their enjoyable and energetic participation.

In just one afternoon and a day, the team accomplished numerous tasks:

What a great group!!

3t led the work crew, with assistance from Mercury.

Mercury also supported Monique Nieves in preparing meals, contributing to the delightful dining experiences.

Our sincere thanks to Monique Stauder for capturing and sharing the final images of our time together.

This collective effort and the spirit of cooperation made our time together not only productive but also memorable. Thank you to everyone involved! 5th-7th March 2024

Tree-planting! Feb 2024


In February 2024, we were fortunate to host a vibrant group of thirteen-year-olds from Cathedral Middle School for Boys in San Francisco. Under the dedicated guidance of Chris Corrigan, Maddie, and Steve, these young students embarked on an enlightening journey into the world of environmental stewardship.

Their invaluable contribution to planting mahogany saplings, cacao, coffee, and vetiver has made a significant positive impact on our environment.

They worked in the rain and saw first-hand the impact of Hurricane Fiona’s devasting dump of water in September 2022, which caused the landslides that we worked on. We planted Mahogany (Swietenia aubrevilleana) saplings, grown from our own seeds, in June 2022.

Among the many activities, one aspect that stood out was their engagement with our compost toilets! This experience was more than just a lesson in sustainability; it became a source of inspiration for these young minds. The students quickly adapted to this eco-friendly practice, understanding the importance of water conservation and waste reduction. Their enthusiasm and willingness to embrace such sustainable living practices were both impressive and heartwarming. The use of compost toilets served as a practical introduction to the principles of ecological responsibility and closed-loop systems.

It was inspiring to see the students not only accept but also appreciate the value of these sustainable practices. They learned firsthand how such small changes in daily habits can significantly impact our environment. Thanks to Thomas for his note.

Special thanks are due not only to the ever-supportive Chris Corrigan but also to the dedicated school staff—Chris, Steve, Maddie—and Globalworks Leader Rebe, who all played pivotal roles in facilitating this transformative experience. Their collective efforts have undoubtedly sown the seeds of environmental consciousness in the hearts of these young individuals.

We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone involved in making this experience a reality. The students of Cathedral Middle School for Boys have left our community richer, not just through their physical contributions to our reforestation efforts but also by reinforcing our hope for a more sustainable and conscious future.

The Cathedral School for Boys prioritizes diversity in ethnicity, race, and socioeconomic status, along with an experiential education focused on service. This ethos of diversity and experiential learning is integral to their curriculum and is bolstered by their tuition assistance program. It is this foundation that facilitated the recent educational trip to Las Casas. The excursion included students from various economic backgrounds, including those on reduced or subsidized tuition, reflecting the school community’s shared commitment to its values. This commitment enables students, particularly those from urban backgrounds, to experience and learn about conservation in the rainforest firsthand, thereby broadening their perspectives and potential life paths.

Huge gratitude to Monique Nieves whose culinary expertise provided us with delicious meals, fueling our days with energy and warmth. Additionally, a big thank you to the talented artist Mercury, whose volunteer efforts and all-around assistance have been invaluable to our cause.

Here’s to more visits, more learning, and more inspiration. Together, we are cultivating a greener, more sustainable world, one young heart at a time. 27-29 Feb 2024

NC School of Science & Math Jan 2024

In an inspiring display of youthful vigor and environmental stewardship, a group of enthusiastic teen students from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics took part in a tree-planting event today, aimed at revitalizing an area affected by the landslides from Hurricane Fiona. This heartening initiative not only symbolizes a step towards ecological restoration but also embodies the spirit of collaboration and community service.

A special shoutout to Vámonos Tours for ensuring the safe arrival of these intrepid young environmentalists to the site. Their commitment to facilitating such impactful experiences is truly commendable and was pivotal in making today’s activity possible.

The day was buzzing with energy and anticipation as the students, equipped with shovels and saplings, were ready to get their hands dirty for a noble cause. Guiding their efforts in the field were the dynamic duo, 3t and Karim Emir, whose passion for environmental conservation was infectious. Their leadership not only educated the students on the importance of reforestation but also instilled in them a deeper respect for nature and its delicate balances.

Back at the base, the culinary wizards, Monique Nieves and Mercury, were hard at work in the kitchen, preparing a feast to nourish the hardworking volunteers. Their dedication to keeping spirits high and stomachs full added a warm and communal atmosphere to the day’s efforts, making the experience even more memorable for everyone involved.

Today’s tree-planting event is a vibrant testament to what can be achieved when young minds and caring hearts come together for the greater good. It’s a reminder that every action towards restoring our planet counts and that the younger generation is ready and willing to lead the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a part in today’s success, especially Vámonos Tours, for their flawless logistics and unwavering support. Together, we’ve taken a significant step in healing the scars left by Hurricane Fiona, planting seeds of hope and growth for years to come. Here’s to many more such initiatives, where we can all come together to make a difference, one tree at a time!

Susquehanna University, Jan 2024

Susquehanna University (Pennsylvania) students worked hard to reclaim the homestead gardens from invasive vines, clear and prune the Wastewater garden, and create a new nursery area. It has been a joy to have them live with us for three days, and share work, meals, fun, and an electrical issue! Thank you for volunteering. What a great team. Thanks to Monique Nieves, for the fine cuisine, and to Mercury, Karim Emir, and Paula Isabel for their valuable assistance. Thanks to Vamonos Tours for getting this group here safely, and to Vamonos group leader Joseph, for his enthusiasm and love.


Globalworks Team 25th July 2023

Globalworks June-Aug 2023

Globalworks Team 22nd June 2023
Globalworks June-Aug 2023
Globalworks Team 22nd June 2023

Globalworks Team 13th July 2023
Globalworks Team 13th July 2023
Globalworks Team 25th July 2023
Globalworks Team 25th July 2023
Globalworks Team 3rd August 2023
Globalworks Team 3rd August 2023

We have partnered with Globalworks since 2003, and many projects have been touched by hundreds of teenagers over the years.

Global Works is committed to meaningful service, focusing on collaboration with communities rather than merely working on their behalf. Their mission is rooted in sustainable community development, involving student volunteers in genuine, grassroots projects. Global Works prioritizes establishing deep connections with local communities, ensuring their work is both impactful and respectful.

The organization is powered by a team of passionate and experienced leaders, forming the heart of Global Works. With an impressive retention rate of 80% among staff, Global Works prides itself on delivering high-quality, safe, and enjoyable experiences. Leaders are chosen for their expertise, adaptability, and dedication to fostering global citizenship among students.

Global Works adopts a unique approach to travel, embodying the principle of traveling with purpose. This involves immersing in local cultures, supporting local economies, and forging lasting connections across the globe. Global Works offers more than just a trip; it presents an opportunity to become a global citizen.

San Jose State University June 2023

San Jose State University 7/8/9th June 2023

In early June 2023, a lively group of students from San Jose State University took a break from their usual academic environment to embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Puerto Rico’s rainforest. Staying from the 7th to the 9th, these young conservationists turned their hands to vital work at Las Casas de la Selva, focusing on the crucial task of landslide mitigation.

The lush, vibrant landscape of the rainforest is as beautiful as it is fragile. Recent landslides had left scars on this verdant canvas, posing threats to the forest’s rich biodiversity and to the trail system that allows us humans to witness its wonders. To help counter this threat, the San Jose State University students prepared berms for a special guest – Vetiver, or Chrysopogon zizanioides, a plant with extraordinary soil-stabilizing properties.

With shears in hands and determination in hearts, the students trimmed slips of vetiver, and planted the slips 6” apart. The task was labor-intensive, but there was an underlying excitement – a sense of being part of something larger, something impactful. As they worked, they learned about the fascinating characteristics of this humble grass that make it an unsung hero in the fight against soil erosion.

The vetiver plant is a marvel of nature, with a root system that is finely structured and robust. Despite its seemingly delicate appearance, the plant’s roots can penetrate 3–4 meters deep within just the first year of growth, forming a strong subterranean network that safeguards the soil above. Vetiver is unique, as it neither develops stolons nor rhizomes, making it incredibly drought-tolerant.

But perhaps the most significant characteristic of vetiver is its ability to protect soil against erosion. Where other plants might succumb to the onslaught of wind and water, vetiver stands tall, its deep roots acting as a living barrier against the destructive forces. In the event of sediment deposition, new roots can sprout from buried nodes, demonstrating an incredible resilience that further underscores its value in conservation efforts.

Watching the San Jose State University students planting vetiver, it was clear that this was not just a hands-on learning experience, but a meaningful contribution to the preservation of the rainforest. Their time at Las Casas de la Selva was a testament to the critical role that we, as individuals and communities, play in safeguarding our planet’s natural resources. It was a demonstration of how knowledge, action, and passion can come together to create lasting, positive change.

Thank you to Kirky (Kristine Kirkendale) who led the team, and to Globalworks International who organized the expedition. Karaya Diaz provided excellent cuisine for the team.

See this link for more photos of this great trip: https://photos.app.goo.gl/JH5Y9x9sfJNZvm7y8

Globalworks & University of Delaware, 24 May 2023

A Day of Joyful Volunteering in the Puerto Rican Rainforest- Globalworks & University of Delaware, 24 May 2023

(In case English is not your first language, you can translate this website. Click the TRANSLATE button at top right.)

In a heartwarming convergence of cultures and a shared passion for environmental conservation, a group of bright young adults from Saudi Arabia embarked on a life-changing journey to the rainforest project, Las Casas de la Selva, in Patillas, Puerto Rico. Brought together by Globalworks International, an organization dedicated to facilitating service holidays for teenagers, these enthusiastic students spent a day immersing themselves in the rainforest’s beauty. The day was filled with awe-inspiring moments, meaningful discussions, and unforgettable memories.

Exploring the Rainforest’s Resilience: The day began with a guided hike led by Thrity Vakil (3t) at Las Casas de la Selva. As the group ventured deeper into the rainforest, they witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of Hurricane Fiona, which struck Puerto Rico in September 2022. The trail revealed landslides and fallen trees, reminding everyone of the immense power of nature. However, amidst the destruction, there was a sense of hope as new life emerged, highlighting the rainforest’s remarkable resilience.

After the enlightening hike, and some time looking at critically endangered plants in the nursery, it was time for the Saudi Arabian students to roll up their sleeves and contribute their labor! Their task involved carrying buckets of gravel to complete the construction of a new front garden area near the open-air dining room. With determination and a sense of purpose, they worked together, displaying teamwork and a strong work ethic. Among the leaders of the garden task were Alfredo and Potin, who shared their knowledge and expertise, ensuring that the project proceeded smoothly.

The Saudi Arabian students, with their unique perspectives and backgrounds, engaged in enlightening conversations and the students’ genuine curiosity and eagerness to learn left a lasting impression on everyone, fostering an atmosphere of intellectual growth and cultural exchange.

As the morning’s activities drew to a close, the students’ hard work and dedication were rewarded with a mouthwatering lunch prepared by Monique Nieves, chef at Las Casas de la Selva. The tantalizing aromas filled the air, and with gratitude and satisfaction, the group savored the delicious meal, knowing that it was well-earned after their efforts.

The day spent by the students from the University of Delaware, (ELI-SABIC 22),volunteering at Las Casas de la Selva, Patillas, Puerto Rico, was a beautiful testament to the power of unity and collaboration. Through their participation in Globalworks International’s service holiday program, these young adults not only experienced the wonders of the Puerto Rican rainforest but also contributed to the project. This joyous experience serves as a reminder that by working together, we can create a brighter and more sustainable future for our planet.

Thank you everyone!!

Doane Academy, NJ 17 March 2023

Doane Academy, Burlington, NJ 17 March 2023

A team of 14 eager young students from Doane Academy in Burlington, New Jersey arrived at Las Casas de la Selva, ushered in by the experienced guides of Vamanos Tours, and 5 school staff. Though their stay was short, the impact of their visit will resonate for many days and years to come.

Under the stewardship of Las Casas de la Selva, the rainforest serves as more than just a natural spectacle. It’s a living laboratory and a sanctuary for many of Puerto Rico’s endemic species. The students were introduced to ongoing conservation projects, undertaken in collaboration with the Botanical Gardens Conservation International. These initiatives, aimed at preserving the biodiversity of the rainforest, offered the students a firsthand look at the work and dedication required to protect our planet’s delicate ecosystems. They gained an understanding of the urgency and importance of conservation work. Through these encounters, they learned about the delicate balance that characterizes the rainforest and the role they can play in maintaining it.

In particular, they learned about two incredibly rare and endangered plant species: Palo de Cruz (Garcinia portoricensis) and Tortuga Prieto (Ravenia urbanii). These aren’t just plants but important chapters in the story of Puerto Rico’s unique biological heritage. Understanding these species is essential to conserving the rainforest’s intricate web of life, and the students were privileged to see and learn about these plants in their natural habitat.

The Doane Academy students stepped into the shoes of conservationists for the day, engaging in the noble task of trail clearing. The trails within the lush landscape of Las Casas de la Selva serve as vital lifelines, not just for the human visitors, but for the incredible biodiversity that calls this place home. Keeping them clear and safe is a task of utmost importance, ensuring that the delicate balance of the forest ecosystem remains undisturbed.

Equipped with tools and buoyed by a shared purpose, the students worked diligently, clearing fallen leaves and branches, smoothing out rugged areas, and ensuring the trails remain accessible for future explorations. The task was not only a lesson in conservation work, but also an exercise in teamwork, as students learned to synchronize their efforts, becoming parts of a cohesive whole, much like the rainforest itself.

After a day of hard work, they embarked on a hike along the ethnobotanical trail, delving deep into the heart of the forest. This wasn’t just any walk in the woods. As they navigated the trail, they had a chance to discover and learn about the extraordinary plant species that inhabit this rainforest. The trail provided them with a window into the fascinating world of ethnobotany, demonstrating the profound relationship between humans and plants.

The day’s activities culminated in a culinary treat, courtesy of Yara Soler. Her exceptional cuisine added a flavorful finish to a day packed with learning and action, providing the students with a well-deserved reward. Nourished by Soler’s delicious creations, they ended their day on a high note, their hearts filled with unforgettable memories and newfound appreciation for the conservation work being done at Las Casas de la Selva.

Even as their visit concluded, the experiences and knowledge gained during this single day will undoubtedly continue to resonate with the Doane Academy students. They left a part of themselves in the forest trails they cleared, and in return, they carried away valuable lessons in conservation, teamwork, and respect for nature’s intricate tapestry. And hopefully, their brief foray into the world of Las Casas de la Selva has sown the seeds of lifelong stewardship for our planet’s precious resources.

The time spent at Las Casas de la Selva by the students of Doane Academy was an immersive lesson in ecology and conservation. They didn’t just observe the rainforest; they experienced it, understood it, and contributed to its well-being. In the process, they came away with an experience that combined exploration, education, and stewardship, fostering a deep respect for the natural world that will hopefully last a lifetime.

We appreciate the collaboration we have with Vamanos! Reach out to them if you have a large school group that you would like to travel with, get all over the island, and also stay a few nights, or all nights, with us.
https://www.vamonostours.com/about-us/
Vámonos is a minority-owned educational tour company incorporated in the state of Delaware. Founder, Jorge Pardo, started the company in 2002 after six years of taking his own students on cultural and Spanish immersion tours of his island. With a 100% teacher background, they know what it is like to organize these tours from a teacher’s perspective. Therefore, they help teachers throughout the entire sign-up process and provide more than what’s expected in terms of trip preparation.

Fountain Valley 13-17 March 2023

An extraordinary opportunity beckoned the students of Fountain Valley High, led by the exceptional math teacher Deb Prantl. Leaving their familiar classrooms behind, they journeyed thousands of miles, plunging into a world as lush as it is mysterious. Their destination: Las Casas de la Selva, a sanctuary nestled deep within the heart of the Puerto Rican rainforest.

Awaiting them was a chance to immerse themselves in a realm of knowledge that far outstripped any textbook. They were there to spend time with Thrity Vakil, or 3t as she is fondly known. A respected director and passionate budding botanist, 3t offered these young explorers an up-close and personal encounter with the incredible biodiversity that thrives in the verdant wonder of the rainforest.

Under 3t’s guidance, they discovered the intricate beauty and delicate balance of the rainforest ecosystem, and projects dedicated to conservation of endemic speces, in collaboration with The Botanical Gardens Conservation International.They learned about two rare and endangered plant species, Palo de Cruz (Garcinia portoricensis) and Tortuga Prieto (Ravenia urbanii). These weren’t just names on a list for the students; they were real, vibrant components of a thriving ecosystem that they could touch, examine, and understand. The students got up close to the critically endangered species being propagated in the nursery. They also got to repot endangered endemic seedlings Guayabota (Eugenia stahlii), from seeds gathered in 2020.

It’s not every day that a math teacher from Colorado Springs brings her students to the vibrant depths of the Puerto Rican rainforest. Deb Prantl, however, is no ordinary educator. Year after year, she chooses to embark on these exceptional journeys with her students, seeing the inestimable value of teaching beyond the classroom. Her vision transforms students from mere observers to participants in this incredible global classroom.

Las Casas de la Selva, under the stewardship of 3t and her team, welcomed these eager students with the vibrant buzz of coquis, the rich scent of damp earth, and the lush greenery of towering trees. The students didn’t just observe the rainforest, they experienced it – its sounds, its smells, and its life – gaining insights that can’t be learned in a traditional classroom setting. This trip wasn’t just a journey into the rainforest; it was an expedition into knowledge, conservation, and a deeper understanding of the world that surrounds us.

The thrill of the journey to Las Casas de la Selva doesn’t end with their exploration of the rainforest. A walk in the woods is just the beginning. The excitement continues as the group congregates for an opening circle – an integral part of the experience, providing an opportunity for everyone to share a bit about themselves and forge connections. With dinner comes more animated conversations, as students and staff exchange stories and perspectives, learning from each other as much as from their surroundings.

The next day, the group gets their hands dirty, literally. They work on clearing a trail near a landslide caused by Hurricane Fiona in September 2022, and another one leading down to the river. They help in repotting rare trees in the nursery and planting out nine mahogany trees, each seedling a promise for the future. They engage with Bill Davidowski, absorbing his insights on woodworking as he unveils his current projects.

All this, fueled by the delectable cuisine of Monique Nieves, bringing the local flavors of Puerto Rico to life with every mouthful. Her culinary prowess complements the rich experiences of the day, nourishing both body and soul.

Witnessing the rainforest awaken to a new day, watching the students’ faces light up as they discover the wonders hidden in the lush wilderness is a sight to behold. From unusual flora and fauna, breathtaking waterfalls, awe-inspiring wildlife, to the melodic chorus of coquis serenading the night, Las Casas de la Selva transforms into an open-air classroom like no other.

The retreat at Las Casas de la Selva is not just an ecological expedition; it’s a journey of connections – with nature, with each other, and within oneself. It’s a sanctuary away from the digital distractions of modern life. Students often express their relief and joy at being off their phones and devices, relishing the chance to simply be in the moment, to absorb the sights, sounds, and sensations of the living rainforest around them.

Beyond the trail-blazing, tree-planting, and storytelling, the Las Casas de la Selva experience is about more profound lessons. Lessons in conservation, sustainability, and environmental stewardship are woven into the fabric of the journey. It’s about understanding that we’re all part of this beautiful, intricate web of life and that every action matters.

And perhaps most importantly, it’s a reminder that sometimes, the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the wild. To echo the words of naturalist John Muir, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” In the heart of the Puerto Rican rainforest, the students of Fountain Valley High discovered just that.

See more of 3t’s photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/9C5LBvjrKTkQobjV8

Fountain Valley School of Colorado provides a transformative curriculum in a supportive environment where students are challenged to think critically, become leaders, and live by our core values: Courage, Compassion, Curiosity, Self-Reliance, Open-Mindedness. 
Fountain Valley School is a coed independent college preparatory school that offers day and boarding programs for students in grades 9-12. FVS was established in 1930 and is located on an 1,100 acre campus in Colorado Springs, Colo., which is 70 miles (115 km) south of Denver. Colorado’s mountain ski resorts are two hours to the west, and the School has a 40-acre Mountain Campus near Buena Vista, Colo., that provides abundant opportunities for year-round recreation and experiential education programs.

Democracy Prep Endurance School, NY,NY, 19-21 Feb 2023

Democracy Prep Endurance Charter School, Manhattan, NY, 19-21 Feb 2023

Thanks to these enthusiastic students from New York, who helped with clearing hurricane debris.

Thanks to Monique Nieves for great chef work, and delicious food. She was helped in the kitchen by Niko Pulford, 20 year old world traveler who is volunteering for three weeks and helping out in all areas. Thanks Niko, it was a pleasure to have you here. Good luck and see you again.

All Democracy Prep staff and students live by the “DREAM” values of Discipline, Respect, Enthusiasm, Accountability and Maturity.

We appreciate the collaboration we have with Vamanos! Reach out to them if you have a large school group that you would like to travel with, get all over the island, and also stay a few nights, or all nights, with us.
https://www.vamonostours.com/about-us/
Vámonos is a minority-owned educational tour company incorporated in the state of Delaware. Founder, Jorge Pardo, started the company in 2002 after six years of taking his own students on cultural and Spanish immersion tours of his island. With a 100% teacher background, they know what it is like to organize these tours from a teacher’s perspective. Therefore, they help teachers throughout the entire sign-up process and provide more than what’s expected in terms of trip preparation.

Susquehanna University 11-13 January 2023

Susquehanna University 11-13 January 2023:

Students and staff from Susquehanna University, a private liberal arts college in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, came to stay for three days, brought to us by Vamanos Tours who specialize in immersive experiences for children and young adults.

This team continued with the cementing of the path down to El teatro; a much needed upgrade after the torrential rains of Hurricane Fiona in September 2022. Thanks to volunteers at Las Casas de la Selva who helped with crew leadership for the task in hand: 3t, Larry Birdflask, George Locascio, and Alfredo Lopez.
Monique Nieves was chef, ably assisted by Vanessa Acevedo. We ate really well! 3t gave a presentation about the history and work at Las Casas de la Selva, and George Locascio made a presentation about his work as a lepidopterist and botanist.

See more of 3t’s photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/BXgPL5GbiHsgc62S6

We appreciate the collaboration we have with Vamanos! Reach out to them if you have a large school group that you would like to travel with, get all over the island, and also stay a few nights, or all nights, with us.
https://www.vamonostours.com/about-us/
Vámonos is a minority-owned educational tour company incorporated in the state of Delaware. Founder, Jorge Pardo, started the company in 2002 after six years of taking his own students on cultural and Spanish immersion tours of his island. With a 100% teacher background, they know what it is like to organize these tours from a teacher’s perspective. Therefore, they help teachers throughout the entire sign-up process and provide more than what’s expected in terms of trip preparation.

Globalworks Team 11 January 2023

Globalworks Team 11 January 2023

A service day with teenagers from Charles Wright Academy, Tacoma, WA, brought to us by the fun and very competant team of Globalworks staff lead by Lauren Gette-King. Volunteers at Las Casas de la Selva who helped with crew leadership for the task in hand: 3t, Larry Birdflask, George Locascio, and Alfredo Lopez. The task was to re-cement the 40 year old path down to El Teatro. Various other nursery tasks were also accomplished. This team started the process and completed half the path, had a fantastic lunch cooked by Monique Nieves, and Vanessa Acevedo, and left in the afternoon as we prepped to receive another team that same evening!

See more of 3t’s photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/gTxZ9yDCQsyXxEM56

Trips abroad change children’s lives, open their minds, and create new perspectives!! https://www.globalworkstravel.com/summer-service-adventures/

Hartford High, Vermont – April 2022

Students and staff from Hartford High School, Vermont were in the house for several days, whilst we had an island-wide blackout. We worked on the ethnobotanical trail where a landslide had erased much of the path, and created a new trail. Old eroded steps on the trail were renewed and undergrowth was cleared for more tree-planting. Thanks to staff Doug Anton, Israel Provoncha, and Tricia Pfeiffer for great leadership, and to Vamanos Tours for safe travel and island organizing! Monica Nieves and Vanessa Acevedo worked the kitchen and dining, and we were delighted by the fine cuisine.

Democracy Prep Schools, New York, April 2022

A – Democracy Prep Charter High School – New York, NY
B – Democracy Prep Harlem High School – Harlem, NY
C – Democracy Prep Harlem Prep High School – Harlem, NY
D – Democracy Prep Bronx Prep High School – Bronx, NY
E – Democracy Prep Endurance High School – New York, NY

Democracy Prep Public Schools is a growing network of free, open-enrollment, high-performing public charter schools committed to preparing students for success in college and active citizenship. These five teams of New York teens came to participate at Las Casas de la Selva, Sustainable Forestry Project, Patillas, and worked outside in heavy rains and muddy conditions, helping with clearing overgrowth, clearing an area for more tree sapling storage under shade, digging holes for tree planting, and cleaning up various nursery areas. Comfort zones were broken down swiftly, but happy to report big smiles all around. We had a great time with these young students who are all on their way to great achievements. We salute you all. Thanks also to the staff who brought each team and Vamanos Tours for getting them all in and out safely. Thanks to Monique Nieves and Vanessa Acevedo for the delicious cuisine.

Lawrence Academy Groton, MA March 2022

Mercury, a visiting artist from New York, and 3t, worked with students out in the forest on the ethnobotanical trail. The students were lucky to get some presentations from project volunteers George Locascio, a butterfly expert who teaches at Mount Wachusett Community College, and Brian Connolly, a botanist who is a professor at Eastern Connecticut State University.

Lawrence Academy team 12th- 14th March 2022. Thank you!
Lawrence Academy team 11-12th March 2022. Thank you!!

Fountain Valley High School, CO March 2022

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