Service work

by thrity March 20, 2024

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!

School Groups Service work Vamanos Tours Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity March 20, 2024

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.

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

School Groups Service work Vamanos Tours Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity February 24, 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!

School Groups Service work Vamanos Tours Volunteer Groups Volunteers Wastewater Garden

by thrity February 23, 2024

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 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 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!!

Botany Endangered plants Nursery Nursery Rare trees Research & Education Service work Volunteers

by thrity May 22, 2023

VOLUNTEERS WANTED: Nursery Care & Plant Work

Alternative Spring Break BGCI Fountain Valley High Fountain Valley High School Nursery Rare trees School Groups Service work Tree planting Trees Vamanos Tours Volunteer Groups Volunteers Woodwork

by thrity April 24, 2023

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.

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/

Alternative Spring Break School Groups Service work Vamanos Tours Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity June 4, 2022

Hartford High, Vermont – April 2022

HartFord High School, Vermont, 5/6/7/8 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.

Alternative Spring Break Fountain Valley High School Service work Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity May 28, 2022

Fountain Valley High School, CO March 2022

Fountain Valley High School students, with Deb and Britta, group leaders, stayed in March, and helped 3t with many tasks, including re-clothing the hoop nursery, repotting young trees, and planting some fruit trees. Thanks to Ingrid Datica, and Vanessa Acevedo for wonderful cuisine and the students for nighttime entertainment. Thank you for continuing your annual service work with us, since 2014.

Globalworks Teams Service work Sustainable lifestyle Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity May 28, 2022

Globalworks Teens: 5th March 2022

Service work Vamanos Tours Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity March 12, 2022

Vamanos Tours Group: Feb 2022

Vamanos Tours brought a wonderful team of 25 teens and 3 staff, from Meridian School, Boston, USA to stay for two days and help out in all areas. We cleared a bank in preparation for a future project and worked on the ethnobotanical trail. Thanks to Monique Nieves for delicious vegetarian food, and to Vanessa Acevedo for all homestead help.

Service work Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity September 26, 2021

Vamonos Tours Group: July 2021

15-18th July 2021

Vamonos Tours have been collaborating with us for several years now and bringing groups of people from all over the world to stay for a while in the rainforest, volunteering on many fun tasks.

This team from Massachusetts stayed for three nights and helped with trails, compost management, nursery cleaning and re-organizing, putting in new weedcloth and spreading gravel on the ground. An incredible time was had by all, and thanks to Magha Garcia for the delicious, nutritious food!

If you are looking to bring a group to Puerto Rico, don’t hesistate to get in touch with Bernardo or Jorge at Vamonos.
https://www.vamonostours.com/about-us/

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.

Service work Volunteers

by thrity April 7, 2021

Volunteer at Las Casas de la Selva, 2021

Voluntariado en Las Casas de la Selva, 2021

En el corazón de la Sierra de Cayey, en el municipio de Patillas, Puerto Rico, se encuentra nuestro proyecto y centro de investigación. Hemos abierto nuevamente el programa de voluntariado y estaremos aceptando solicitudes. Se escogerán voluntarios que deseen quedarse hasta tres meses para participar en nuestros proyectos. El programa incluye comidas y acomodo. Envíe una breve biografía, foto y CV, junto con un párrafo sobre lo que esperaría obtener de una experiencia como esta. Navegue por nuestro sitio web para comprender mejor este proyecto único de enriquecimiento de bosques y silvicultura sostenible, con 37 años de antigüedad y que ha sobrevivido a huracanes, terremotos y pandemias desde 1983. Contacto

Durante casi 40 años, nuestro proyecto ha dado la bienvenida a los huéspedes a la pintoresca granja de montaña boscosa de Las Casas de la Selva, en el sureste de la isla de Puerto Rico. Las medidas de seguridad de COVID-19 requieren que adaptemos nuestra hospitalidad, pero si bien nuestras operaciones serán diferentes, nuestra dedicación a los objetivos del proyecto y la exploración de nuestro potencial humano sigue siendo la misma. La seguridad de nuestros voluntarios, huéspedes y personal es de gran preocupación. Se requieren cubrimientos faciales en interiores. Todos debemos practicar el distanciamiento social parándonos al menos a seis pies de distancia entre nosotros y mientras nos movemos por la propiedad.

Este será un tiempo de tareas al aire libre, tranquilidad, menos gente, baños en el bosque, caminatas privadas, inmersiones en ríos, en este magnífico bosque de tabunuco, con espectaculares vistas del mar Caribe desde la montaña.

Volunteer at Las Casas de la Selva, 2021

In the heart of the Sierra de Cayey, in the municipality of Patillas, Puerto Rico, sits our research center homestead. We are re-opening our volunteer program, and accepting applications for volunteers who would like to stay for up to three months and partake in all our projects. Learning by Doing. The program includes food and accommodation. Please send a short bio, pic, and CV, along with a paragraph about what you would hope to get out of an experience like this. Please browse our website to gain some understanding of this unique 37-year-old sustainable forestry and rainforest enrichment project that has survived hurricanes, earthquakes, and pandemics, since 1983. Contact

For nearly 40 years, our project has welcomed volunteers & guests to the scenic forested mountain homestead of Las Casas de la Selva, on the south east of the island of Puerto Rico. COVID-19 safety measures require us to adapt our hospitality but while our operations will be different, our dedication to the project’s aims and exploring our human potential remains the same. The safety of our volunteers, guests, and staff is of greatest concern. Face coverings are required while indoors. We all should practice social distancing by standing at least six feet away from each other, and while moving around the property.

This will be a time of out-door tasks, tranquility, fewer people, forest-bathing, private hikes, river-dips, in this magnificent tabunuco forest, with spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea from the mountain.

Americorps Service work Volunteer Groups Volunteers

by thrity April 10, 2019

Americorps Youth 2018 at Las Casas de la Selva

Since June 2018 many Americorps youth in Puerto Rico, chose to come to Las Casas on their volunteer days. The tasks at the project, led by 3t, are always hard labor, but fun. The mountain breeze, along with the cold mountain water, and terrific views, make it a hard-to-resist location!

These wonderful teams have helped with all manner of tasks including clearing debris, gardening, digging out landslides, digging drainage ditches, bridge repair, general construction, and helping with main drive maintenance. We are really appreciative of the service ethic that these folks have demonstrated.

Americorps youth (who are here in Puerto Rico working with FEMA on hurricane relief), continue to volunteer at Las Casas in 2019. Thank you very much for your service!