Westtown School Students Lend a Hand in the Rainforest
We were thrilled to welcome students from Westtown School in West Chester, Pennsylvania, for a short but impactful stay at Las Casas de la Selva. As a Quaker, coeducational boarding and day school with a strong commitment to stewardship and community, Westtown’s values aligned beautifully with our mission in the Puerto Rican rainforest.
Over two days and nights, the students jumped right in—clearing bamboo from one of our overgrown trails, building steps along the ethnobotanical trail, and re-establishing drainage ditches on the main forest road to help with water flow and erosion control. These are essential tasks that help us keep the forest healthy and accessible, and their energy and teamwork made a real difference.
Working alongside 3t were crew leaders Mercury and Jon Warwick, who guided and supported the students through each task with care and enthusiasm. Whether using shovels, or moving stones, the crew made sure everyone felt involved and appreciated.
And of course, no rainforest workday is complete without a delicious return to the kitchen—where Monique Nieves had nourishing meals ready and waiting. Coming home from the field to a hearty lunch or dinner was a treat that lifted everyone’s spirits and kept the momentum going.
We’re grateful for Westtown’s visit, their hard work, and the connection forged between forest and school. These moments of hands-on learning and service remind us that true education happens everywhere—especially when hearts and hands come together for a greater purpose.
Thanks to staff: Franco Yanielli, Fernando Gomes, & Mercedes Duran.
Vamonos Tours were responsible for getting the team to us and away, and great thanks to team leader Veronica.
