The Beginning of This Experience
I remember the day Osman shared that he was in contact with the principal of a rural school in Turrialba to develop a project. At that moment, I imagined a remote and isolated community. However, when we arrived, I realized it was much closer than expected, yet still facing real needs that required action.
From the very beginning, I felt a strong personal connection. I also come from a one-teacher school, so seeing that small space, with a shared classroom and a separate area for kindergarten, felt familiar. The warmth of the teachers, the kitchen staff, and the community made us feel welcome from the start.
Environmental Education and Youth Leadership in Action
As the children began to arrive, their excitement was immediately noticeable. Their energy set the tone for the entire day. It became clear that this experience was not only about improving infrastructure, but also about creating meaningful learning moments.
During the day, we delivered four environmental education workshops, where students actively participated and engaged with the topics in a dynamic way.
At the same time, another group focused on improving the school’s physical environment. While some facilitated workshops, others worked on restoring the furniture and classroom.
Key results included:
- Sanding desks with multiple layers of old paint
- Preparing and improving school furniture
- Painting the classroom to create a cleaner and more welcoming space
- Active participation from all volunteers across different tasks
Although sanding desks may seem like a simple task, it required patience and dedication. Each layer removed represented a step toward providing a better learning environment for the students.
Why Volunteering in Rural Communities Matters
One of the most valuable aspects of this experience was the diversity of volunteers. People of different ages participated, including a younger volunteer who fully engaged in every activity. Seeing individuals from different backgrounds working together toward a shared purpose was truly meaningful.
Beyond the visible improvements, this experience showed how even a short-term initiative can create real impact in rural communities. In many cases, these areas may seem close, but they remain underserved and benefit greatly from meaningful and respectful alliances.
During this weekend, we were able to strengthen community connections, create shared learning spaces, and improve the educational environment for students. Knowing that the children would return to a more welcoming and cared-for space was one of the most rewarding outcomes.
Now, imagine the potential of a longer-term experience. Through programs like Global Greentalist, where volunteers engage for several weeks, the impact can go deeper, more sustainable, and more transformative for both communities and participants.
In the coming weeks, we will be sharing more information through our webinars about these opportunities and how to get involved.
Personally, I feel grateful to have organized and led this initiative, but even more grateful to have shared this experience with people who genuinely want to contribute and make a difference.
Let’s Keep Creating Impact Together
At Greentalist, we remain committed to creating volunteer experiences that promote youth leadership and sustainable development in rural communities.
We will continue building alliances and developing projects that generate real impact across the country.
If you would like to be part of these experiences or learn more about our programs, we invite you to stay connected.
Thanks for your support,
Yorle Bermúdez
Volunteer Journey Manager
