Globalworks Teams Archives - Eye on the Rainforest

Cathedral School, California, with Global Works

Cathedral School students Planting Pisonia horneae in the Sierra de Cayey 16-18 April 2026

In April we welcomed 14 year old students from Cathedral School, San Francisco, CA, brought to us by Global Works.

Founded in the mid-1950s, Cathedral School for Boys was built on the idea that strong academics should be matched by equally strong character. The school emphasizes intellectual rigor alongside values of community, integrity, and service, with a clear belief that what students do with their learning matters as much as the learning itself. On the first afternoon of arrival, despite the rain, we went out to clear an area that had broken bamboo that was leaning on one of the trails.

The next day, 17th April 2026, we planted 8 Pisonia horneae saplings in the Eye on the Rainforest landscape here in the Sierra de Cayey. These trees were grown from seeds collected by botanist Steve Maldonado from wild individuals in the karst area of Aguadilla, Punta Borinquen in 2021. Now they are back in the ground where they belong. 3t was ecstatic as she, Jon Warwick, and multi-media artist and writer-in-residence Gregg Dugan, led a team to plant these saplings into the forest.

The Caribbean is one of the most biologically rich regions in the world. Even now, new plant species are still being described. Puerto Rico, despite being one of the best-studied islands in the region, continues to reveal species that went unrecognized for decades. Pisonia horneae is one of those. For years, specimens of this tree were misidentified, lumped under other species, or left unresolved. Botanists working through old collections, field observations, and living material eventually realized they were looking at something distinct. It was formally described in 2017 and named after Frances Horne, an illustrator who spent 45 years documenting the plants of Puerto Rico, much of her work never fully acknowledged. https://www.sciencedirect.com/org/science/article/pii/S1314201117000716

The tree itself belongs to the genus Pisonia, often called “birdcatcher trees.” The name comes from their seeds, which are coated in sticky glands. In some species, these can cling to birds and use them for dispersal. This is not a tree you notice easily. It does not dominate. It appears in small numbers, often as single individuals or small clusters, usually in recovering forest. You find it on slopes, ravines, and rocky ground, places where forest has been disturbed and is rebuilding. It sits in that middle layer of the forest. Not canopy, not understory, just part of the structure.

Four year old sapling of *Pisonea horneae*

Right now, it is considered imperiled. There may be as few as 1 to 250 individuals remaining. Across Puerto Rico, it is scattered and fragmented. In the north, there are a few places where it is more common. Outside of that, especially in the east, it becomes extremely rare. In some historical locations, it is no longer found. There have been a few individuals recorded in the Sierra de Cayey. That is why planting here matters.

By the end of the morning, 8 young trees were in the ground. This is what restoration looks like. Not large numbers. Not quick results. Just the steady return of species that should already be here. Puerto Rico now has six known species of Pisonia. This is one of the rare ones. Watching these teens plant the saplings was a joy! Now we watch them grow…the teens as well as the trees!

Chef Monique Nieves provided delicious meals throughout, and Dugan was extra help in the kitchen.

Gregg Dugan, who helped build the RV Heraclitus and was Captain of the ship for several years had the students enthralled with stories of sea adventures on one evening. Dugan is writer-in-residence at Las Casas de la Selva for two months, March and April 2026.
See Dugan’s website: https://www.2birdshrs.com/

L-R: Gregg Dugan, Randall Vargas Guido, 3t Vakil, Luke Southall, Caitlyn Toropova, Chris Corrigan, Monique Nieves

Cathedral School, California, school staff: Chris Corrigan and Caitlyn Toropova.
Chris has been bringing teen school groups to Eye on The Rainforest for over a decade now.
Brought to us by Global Works – International Community Service with leaders Randall Vargus Guido and Luke Southall. Thank you all.

See more images: https://photos.app.goo.gl/ZN8pWenzRwG3x6XW6
Photos by 3t Vakil, Chris Corrigan, Gregg Dugan, and Caitlyn Toropova.

Globalworks Teams

by thrity July 12, 2025

Globalworks Teen Team, July 2025

We were thrilled to host a Day Service group of 19 energetic teens and 4 dedicated Globalworks staff at Eye On The Rainforest! It’s a full-circle moment—Globalworks teens helped break ground on our Ethnobotanical Trail all the way back in 2003, and this visit brings that legacy back to life.

Who Was Here

Crew Leader Jon Warwick took charge with enthusiasm, guiding the teens through every step of their work on the trail.
GlobalWorks Leaders: Warm thanks to Lauren, Jorge, Sarah, and Anthony, whose presence and support uplifted the entire group.

What We Accomplished

Over several hours of steady effort, the crew strengthened sections of the trail, creating drainage ditches and pruning undergrowth away from the trail—the backbone that makes exploration safe and accessible. After working hard in the heat and humidity and with the challenge of razor grass, everyone refueled with a wholesome lunch back at the homestead. Seeing those teens come together to repair our trail was a powerful reminder of how service and nature intertwine.

The Globalworks Difference

Globalworks isn’t just a travel company—they’re a community builder. As described on their website, they make “intentionally crafted itineraries” designed to encourage resilience, leadership, confidence, self-reliance, and curiosity in teens. They’re committed to immersive community service.

See : globalworkstravel.com
Their model of blending service, reflection, cultural exchange, and adventure provides an enriching backdrop for experiences like ours—and it’s clear that this isn’t just travel, but travel with purpose.

Full Circle, Full Hearts

Hosting Globalworks again on the Ethnobotanical Trail feels deeply meaningful. From 2003 to today, these partnerships help not just our environment but also the growth of young people who return home more capable, connected, and confident. We’re proud to collaborate with them, and to know that these trails, built by teamwork and care, will continue to educate and inspire. (Teenagers grow up and return to volunteer again, now with their own teenagers!!!)

Thank you to Jon, Lauren, Jorge, Sarah, Anthony, and every one of the 19 teens—and of course, a big shout-out to 3T for keeping everyone fueled with a great lunch. Here’s to many more years of partnership, growth, and active service in the rainforest!

Photos by 3t Vakil, Jorge Flores, & Jon Warwick

Globalworks Globalworks Teams School Groups Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity May 22, 2025

Cathedral School for Boys, San Francisco, April 2025

Cathedral School for Boys: Working Through the Rain

From 17-19 April 2025, we hosted a group from Cathedral School for Boys in San Francisco, brought to us by Globalworks International. The school has a strong focus on academic and personal development, and Globalworks has been organizing service-learning trips for decades.

The group—23 students, 3 school staff, and Globalworks team leader Lauren Gette King—had steady rain during most of their stay, which limited some of the fieldwork we usually plan. Still, they got stuck into key tasks: clearing drainage channels, pruning along the roadside, clearing vines off the vetiver plantings, and spreading gravel on dips in the trail. Not easy work in wet conditions, but they stayed with it.

We’ve been working with Chris Corrigan for over ten years now, and it’s always good to have his teams onsite. It was also great to have Tyrone Moore visiting—Tyrone was a GlobalWorks leader during one of the very first programs with Las Casas de la Selva back in 2003, when we first established the ethnobotanical trail.

Cathedral school staff Staff: Chris Corrigan, Pat Alcasabas, Susan Lande, and guest Tyrone Moore.

During the visit, 3t gave a presentation on the history and ongoing work at Las Casas de la Selva, covering everything from sustainable forestry practices to the development of the ethnobotanical trail. The talk gave students and staff a deeper understanding of the long-term goals of the project and how their work fits into a broader vision of conservation, development of a wood industry, and community engagement.

Both Tyrone (left) and Chris (right) are also strong supporters of 3t’s artwork, and during the visit, they, along with Susan, each bought several prints—much appreciated. See 3t’s artwork: www.3tvakil.com

Thanks to Monique Nieves for great cuisine throughout, and to Jon Warwick for steady help with crew work and logistics. Huge thanks to Globalworks Team leaders Lauren Gette-King and Claudia Koechell.
Appreciate everyone’s efforts! Thank you!

Globalworks Teams

by thrity August 14, 2024

Globalworks International Summer Teams

Globalworks International Collaborations

Celebrating the Heart and Soul of Our Teen Volunteer Teams: A Journey into the Forest

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when young people come together to work in the heart of a forest. It’s a magic that unfolds through sweat, laughter, and the deep satisfaction of leaving a mark on something much bigger than themselves. Over the summer of 2024, we were privileged to witness this magic through the incredible efforts of five teen volunteer groups who joined us in our forest sanctuary. These young people, hailing from all corners of the United States, brought with them boundless energy, a love for nature, and a commitment to making a difference.

June 20th, 2024 – PRX1: The Journey Begins

On a warm day in June, our first group of volunteers—31 bright-eyed teens, arrived ready to immerse themselves in the forest. Guided by the expertise of Lauren, Nahely, Smooth, and Nathan, this team embarked on a day of transformative work, led by 3t. Lunch was under the culinary care of Chef Monique, they were fueled up, and set out to make an impact. These young volunteers tackled a variety of tasks with enthusiasm, leaving behind a well-tended homestead area, a revitalized nursery, and newly planted vetiver on the cabin bank. Their efforts were more than just physical labor; they were an act of love for the land, a connection that would only deepen as the summer went on.

July 5th, 2024 – PRX2: Growing Stronger Together

Just a few weeks later, another group of teens, 24 in total, arrived with their hearts set on making a difference. This time, 3t was joined by Jon Warwick, and together they led the group through a series of important tasks. With the guidance of Globalworks leaders, Lauren, Dee, Nathan, and Jorge, and the nourishment provided by Chefs Nitzie and Nia, these young stewards spent the day in the homestead area, tending the nursery, and working diligently on the lower hillside trail. The bonds they formed with the forest—and with each other—were palpable. By the end of the day, they had not only cleared paths and planted vetiver but had also planted the seeds of lifelong stewardship.

July 16th, 2024 – PRX3: Planting the Future

The third group arrived in mid-July, a smaller but no less passionate team of 16 students. Under the leadership of 3t and supported by Globalworks leaders Jorge, Sadie, and Raina, they embarked on a mission to plant trees along the Ethnobotanical trail. These weren’t just any trees—they were species carefully chosen for their ecological importance: Cornutia obovata, Goetzea elegans, Libidibia monosperma, Psychotria viridis, and Prunus occidentalis. With each sapling they planted, these teens were sowing the future of the forest. Chef Nitzie’s meals kept them energized throughout the day, and by the time they left, they had made a lasting contribution to the biodiversity of our sanctuary.

July 25th, 2024 – PRX4: Carving New Paths

As July drew to a close, another dedicated group of teens joined us, ready to continue the work of those who came before them. This team, led by 3t with the support of Globalworeks leaders Lyndsey, Jorge, and Kurt, focused on planting trees along the hillside trail and fortifying the lower hillside with vetiver. Dr. Mark Nelson, Chairman of the Institute of Ecotechnics, and an accomplished chef, provided the food fuel for their hard work, and as the day wore on, the students not only cleared the steps to the lower trail but also deepened their connection to the forest. They left behind new paths and strengthened trails, both literally and metaphorically, for those who will come after them.

August 3rd, 2024 – PRX5: A Celebration of Creativity and Community

Our final group of the summer arrived in early August, a mix of 20 students guided by 3t and supported by Globalworks staff Lauren, Naely, and Anya. This day was special, not just for the work accomplished, but for the creative spirit that infused it. With the guidance of Gaby Sanchez, our artist in residence, these young volunteers engaged in maintaining front gardens, raking paths, pruning, and working in the Hoop Nursery. But they also had the unique opportunity to contribute to a collaborative art project—crafting a cabuya, a traditional Puerto Rican rope made from maguey fibers. This project symbolized the beautiful intersection of nature, culture, and community, and left a lasting impression on everyone involved.

The Lasting Impact

As each of these groups departed, they left behind more than just planted trees and cleared trails. They left behind a piece of themselves—a piece that will continue to grow and flourish within the forest they came to love. But they didn’t leave empty-handed. Each teen took with them the experience of working in harmony with nature, the joy of making a tangible difference, and the hope of returning one day as stewards of the forest.

Their hard work has left an indelible mark on our project, and we are filled with gratitude for the passion and energy they brought. We are hopeful that these young volunteers will carry the lessons they’ve learned into their futures, becoming the forest stewards of tomorrow.

Thank you to all the volunteers, leaders, and support staff who made these contributions possible. Your dedication has not only enriched our forest but also our hearts.

Globalworks Globalworks Teams School Groups Service work Tree planting Volunteers

by thrity March 1, 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.

Tree-planting on landslide caused by Hurricane Fiona

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

Globalworks Globalworks Teams School Groups Service work Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity February 20, 2024

Globalworks June-Aug 2023

Globalworks June-Aug 2023
Globalworks Team 22nd June 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.

Globalworks Globalworks Teams Volunteers

by thrity June 29, 2023

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 Globalworks Teams School Groups Service work Volunteers

by thrity May 25, 2023

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!!

Globalworks Globalworks Teams

by thrity April 24, 2023

GW Cathedral School for Boys 2-3 March 2023

Chris Corrigan, teacher extraordinaire, has been bringing his students to Puerto Rico for immersive adventure and service holidays for many years, and Las Casas de la Selva is always on his itinerary. This year we got to meet his students over a path-building task, carrying gravel to make the path to the composting toilets, to create a better experience when it is raining. Thank you so much.

Of special note was the donation of $1,700 from the school. We are very grateful.

Jose “Potin” was crew leader, along with Alfredo Lopez and Niko Pulford, who also helped 3t in all areas with the team, (special thanks to Niko for his help in the kitchen). Monique Nieves prepared delicious, nutritious meals for which we cannot say thank you enough! Thanks to Globalworks Travel International for organizing this team and getting them to us.

PUERTO RICO COMMUNITY SERVICE TRIP FOR TEENS: https://www.globalworkstravel.com/adventures/puerto-rico-hurricane-relief/

Cathedral School for Boys is a K-8 all-boys private Episcopal day school located next to Grace Cathedral on Nob Hill in San Francisco, California.

See more of 3t’s photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/AgdxttPn8B9sNsAw6

Globalworks Globalworks Teams

by thrity April 23, 2023

Globalworks Teams 22-23 February 2023

Globalworks with Synergy School, CA, & Arendell Parrott Academy, NC

Students from Synergy School, CA, and Arendell Parrott Academy, NC were here for a service day each and worked hard on the main drive to develop the edges of the road in preparation for planting. Thanks to Monique for a delicious lunch and to Alfredo Lopez and Niko Pulford for helping 3t with team management.

See more of 3t’s photos Arendell Parrott Academy, NC: https://photos.app.goo.gl/Z6yu2pxV8uHASBHj9

See more of 3t’s photos Synergy School, CA: https://photos.app.goo.gl/8B2hcyJYCwU9i3ro6

Thanks to Globalworks Travel International for organizing this team and getting them to us. https://www.globalworkstravel.com/

Globalworks Globalworks Teams Service work Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity April 23, 2023

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/

Globalworks Teams Service work Sustainable lifestyle Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity May 28, 2022

Globalworks Teens: 5th March 2022

Globalworks Teams

by thrity March 11, 2022

Globalworks 14th February 2022

Thank you to Globalworks for bringing us this enthusiastic group of teens who helped with clearing the land in preparation for a new project. We really appreciated the effort! Thank you to Ari Wildau and Randall Vargas Guido, Globalworks, trip leaders.

Education Globalworks Teams School Groups Service work Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity September 26, 2021

Global Works Team 3: July 2021

26-29th July 2021: Thanks to this intrepid team of teens who worked with 3t clearing the overgrowth on our main drive from the gate, and also work in the nursery. This team spent three nights with us. Thanks to Magha Garcia and Milly Santiago for the cuisine that kept the team well fed.

Big thanks also to Global Works Trip Leader, Eric Uslander, and to the staff who stayed with us: Lindsey Storm, Talia Santos, and James Palma Harrera.

Global Works provides service trips for teens and school travel programs with community service, cultural exchange, language immersion, and adventure. They make sure that teens have an unforgettable experience abroad, make friends for a lifetime, have lessons in leadership, and make impactful change!
For more on their programs: https://www.globalworkstravel.com/

We have been collaborating with Global Works since 2003, and we really value the long-term relationship with staff and the teens who return as young aduts to continue a relationship with our project.

Education Globalworks Teams Homestead School Groups Service work Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity September 25, 2021

Global Works Team 2: July 2021

25th July 2021: This team of 25 teenagers and three staff spent a day at Las Casas de la Selva helping with cement-work on our library roof, led by Andrés Rúa, and clearing the homestead of overgrowth with 3t, particularly behind the workshop, where the vines and bamboo had really become wild. Many hands make light work, and this team worked hard all day in rainy weather. Thank you!!! Thanks to Magha for the delicious cuisine.

Big thanks also to Global Works Trip Leader, Eric Uslander, and to the awesome staff: Jorge Flores, Fabricio Ochoa Serrano, Katie Kelly, and Penelope Benscome.

Global Works provides service trips for teens and school travel programs with community service, cultural exchange, language immersion, and adventure. They make sure that teens have an unforgettable experience abroad, make friends for a lifetime, have lessons in leadership, and make impactful change!
For more on their programs: https://www.globalworkstravel.com/

We have been collaborating with Global Works since 2003, and we really value the long-term relationship with staff and the teens who return as young aduts to continue a relationship with our project.

Community Globalworks Teams Service work Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity September 24, 2021

Global Works Team 1: July 2021

13th July 2021: Thank you to this wonderful team of teenagers, who helped with clearing and digging drainage ditches on our main drive and trail this July for one day.

Big thanks also to Global Works Trip Leader, Eric Uslander, and to the awesome staff: Victor Pachas, Jasmine Van Maldren, Fabricio Ochoa Serrano, and Penelope Benscome.

Global Works provides service trips for teens and school travel programs with community service, cultural exchange, language immersion, and adventure. They make sure that teens have an unforgettable experience abroad, make friends for a lifetime, have lessons in leadership, and make impactful change!
For more on their programs: https://www.globalworkstravel.com/

We have been collaborating with Global Works since 2003, and we really value the long-term relationship with staff and the teens who return as young aduts to continue a relationship with our project.

Education Globalworks Teams People of Las Casas de la Selva Service work Volunteer Groups Volunteers Work

by thrity July 22, 2016

San Francisco Day School with Globalworks, May 2016!

This May another 60 students from San Francisco Day school came to Puerto Rico along with their staff, and on a Globalworks organized trip, they stayed all over the island, spending valuable time at Las Casas de la Selva, (20 at a time) during some torrential rainy weather, helping us with the mixing and pouring of a a new cement floor. Thanks to Globalworks staff, Ari W, Luis Bertolo, and PR Globalworks Director, Scott Page. The work was led by Andrés Rúa, and Norman Greenhawk. Thanks to Ricardo Valles, Alex Figueroa and Joel Bernier, for help with all the work. Yara Solis gave three full-on Salsa Dance classes, and Magha Garcia provided some of the finest Puerto Rican food on the island! Thanks to 3t Vakil and Irving Rappaport for images.

Thank you everyone, for all the great energy, even through some of the worst weather we have had this year!

Globalworks Teams Service work

by thrity July 13, 2016

Globalworks and Squaw Valley Preparatory School, April 2016

Globalworks provides intense adventure and service holidays for teenagers. We have collaborated with Globalworks since 2003, and we always have a great time, as well as getting a lot of work done! Twenty-two members, between 14 and 17 years of age, from the Squaw Valley Preparatory School, California, came to stay at Las Casas de la Selva with Scott Page, Director of Globalworks, Puerto Rico. Over a few days a huge amount of trailblazing was carried out, some cement work, and everyone partook in the salsa dance class with Yara Solis.. Thanks to Norman Greenhawk, who was the crew leader out in the forest. Thank you SVP staff Ms. Monica and Shana Boyd. Thanks to Hunter Banovich and Ms. Monica for their photos! Hope to see you all back here someday!

Alternative Spring Break Globalworks Teams Homestead Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity March 18, 2016

Globalworks & Sandy Spring Friends School March 2016

This great bunch of seniors from Sandy Spring Friends School in Washington DC, spent a few days working on major pruning around the homestead and laying the foundation for a new floor.
We were super impressed with the sheer hard work carried out, and this time we had great sunny weather as well. Thanks to school staff, Leah and Barry, and Globalworks facilitators, Scott & Arie. Magha made great food throughout, whilst 3t, Andres, Ricardo, and Alex led the work crews. BIG THANKS to all.