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As 2025 comes to a close, ACCAI (Asociación Comunidad Consciente y de Atención Integral)  looks back with immense gratitude at a year filled with enriching educational activities, community engagement, creative expression, and collaborative partnerships in Brasilito, Guanacaste, Costa Rica . From environmental exploration to arts workshops and community empowerment programs, our organization has continued to support the development, confidence, and well‑being of children, youth, and families. This reflection highlights the most important milestones and initiatives that shaped ACCAI’s work throughout 2025 . Education and Lifelong Learning All Year Round Throughout 2025 , ACCAI proudly served 77 students , maintaining its core educational programs for children and youth from Pre-K through 12th grade . Our weekly tutoring sessions  focused on academic reinforcement in mathematics, reading, English , and sports (pickleball for high school students) providing a supportive and encouraging environment where students could grow academically, build confidence, and develop teamwork skills. Thanks to the dedication of our team and the commitment of our students, 2025 was a year of learning, perseverance, and meaningful progress. 💙✨ At the same time, English classes for adults ran all year round , helping community members improve communication skills, boost confidence, and access new opportunities in a tourism-driven region. These year-long programs were central to ACCAI’s mission of providing lifelong learning opportunities for the entire community . High school students at ACCAI had the opportunity to participate in two art workshops with artist Rachel Harvey.  These sessions sparked creativity and inspired students to explore new forms of expression. Through hands-on activities, the workshops fostered artistic confidence, joy, and a deeper appreciation for the arts, highlighting the important role of creative experiences in holistic education and community connection. Special thanks to Rachel Harvey  for sharing her talent and passion with our students. 🎨✨ In 2025, ACCAI strengthened its commitment to student well-being through two important educational sessions led by the Tourist Police. The Workshop with the Tourist Police on the Psychotropic Drugs Law and Its Scope  engaged 18 students in thoughtful discussion, increasing their awareness of the law and reinforcing the importance of informed and responsible decision-making. Additionally, the Workshop on Child Sexual Abuse with the Tourist Police  provided 22 high school students with a safe and supportive space to learn how to recognize, prevent, and report situations of risk, while building self-esteem and understanding their rights. Together, these workshops empowered students with practical knowledge, confidence, and tools to protect themselves and others, reflecting ACCAI’s ongoing focus on prevention, education, and student safety throughout 2025. As 2025 comes to a close, we are thrilled to celebrate Mia and Brandon , two outstanding students who successfully completed their online English course. What began in January as an exciting opportunity—attending classes every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.—has grown into a remarkable achievement. Their perseverance, discipline, and commitment to learning have truly shone throughout the year. This accomplishment was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Office of the First Lady  and the Centro Cultural Costarricense , whose scholarships provided access to this valuable educational experience. Mia and Brandon embraced the opportunity fully, and we couldn’t be prouder of all they have accomplished. Congratulations on this well-deserved success—your dedication today is laying the foundation for a brighter tomorrow! 🎓✨ ACCAI Little Readers Club Since its launch in September, our ACCAI Little Readers Club  has welcomed ten children aged 4 to 10, sparking excitement, curiosity, and a growing love for books. With great joy, we would like to recognize the wonderful work of Dana , the club’s tutor. 📚💛 On Thursday, December 18 , the club closed the year with a special activity where mothers and children read a book together, shared a snack, and strengthened their family bonds 🤱📖🍎. Dana also gifted each child a book with a personal dedication, leaving a lasting impact and inspiring a love for reading 🌟✨. We are deeply grateful to Dana for her dedication and guidance in making this club a meaningful experience for our little readers. 🙌📘 Learning Beyond the Classroom: Experiential Activities In June 2025 , ACCAI took 42 students  to participate in the Environmental Festival at Flamingo Marina , one of the highlights of the year. Children and youth took part of different activities such as underwater cleanup workshops with Connect Ocean and The Clean Wave, marine exploration, nature painting with Spirit ID:X, folkloric dance, face painting, and educational talks on environmental responsibility and sustainable fishing. This event reinforced environmental stewardship and cultural pride, inspiring children and youth to cherish and protect their natural surroundings.🌱🌊 Special thanks to Reserva Conchal for transportation and Restaurante Pleamar for meals. In July,   ACCAI youth participated in the unveiling of the mural “Mar a la Vista”  at the Civic Center for Peace in Santa Cruz — an artwork celebrating marine ecosystems and community solidarity. Created with students from Brasilito and neighboring towns as part of the IntegrArte program led by the Office of the First Lady, this project highlighted youth creativity, collective expression, and environmental awareness. As part of our 2025 year-end celebrations, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Zafira  for generously gifting, for the third consecutive year, a memorable catamaran ride to mark the close of our tutoring program. This special experience brought joy and excitement to 21 students , who shared an unforgettable day alongside members of our team. More than just a celebration, the outing fostered connection, unity, and lasting memories, and reminded us how meaningful community support can create moments of learning and happiness that stay with our youth long after the day ends. 🌊✨ In 2025, ACCAI supported women and girls through meaningful experiences beyond the Brasilito community. The Women and Girls Empowerment Dialogue Session  brought together adult women and high school girls from Brasilito and neighboring communities, creating a space for open conversation, shared stories, and collective reflection that fostered connection and empowerment. In addition, two members of ACCAI’s team  participated in the third edition of Me Cuido por Mí 2025 , held at Westin Reserva Conchal  and sponsored by Reserva Conchal, the Westin Hotel, and Voces Vitales . Both activities highlighted the importance of safe spaces, self-care, and community dialogue in strengthening well-being and meaningful connections among women and girls. March – November: Fueling Minds and Body ACCAI’s Meal Support Program  partnered with generous individuals and local businesses to provide nutritious lunches to high school students every Saturday from March through November. These meals helped students stay focused, energized, and engaged in their learning—while reminding us that true student success comes from holistic support, where nutrition and education go hand in hand. Special thanks to everyone involved —the individuals, businesses, partners, and supporters who believed in this mission and made it possible. Your generosity, commitment, and trust in what we do created a meaningful impact in the lives of our students, and we are deeply grateful. Equipping Our Students in 2025 In 2025, we were thrilled to provide our students with resources that support their learning and growth. Around 80 students  received school supplies tailored to their individual needs, thanks to a campaign organized by La Marina de Flamingo. Additionally, 10 of our high school students  received scientific calculators through a fundraising campaign, a tool many could not afford on their own. In our English tutoring program, 26 students received hardcover books to use during sessions and take home at the end of the year, giving them a tangible sense of achievement and a resource to continue practicing their skills. These initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to empowering students through practical tools and meaningful support. 🎄 December – Celebration, Giving & Community Spirit As part of our 2025 community engagement, ACCAI was honored to participate in the Christmas parade organized by ADI Brasilito , a celebration that brought together families, students, and local organizations in a spirit of unity and joy. We are deeply grateful for the invitation and for the care put into creating such a meaningful event. Special thanks to Marcela, Sharon, and the students  for their creativity and teamwork in building the sleigh, and to Olga  for designing the beautiful banner that represented our community with pride. Moments like these remind us of the power of collaboration and shared celebration in strengthening community bonds. 🎄✨ ACCAI Sparkle & Shine Toy Drive 🎁🌟 The magic of Christmas came alive this year through the solidarity and love of our community. Thanks to Teacher Kristin  and our dedicated volunteers, the Christmas gift drive brought joy to more than 120 children  from the Brasilito community. A special thank you to Ronnie  for creating a wonderful video that beautifully captured these meaningful moments, allowing us to share the smiles and excitement with everyone. From all of us at ACCAI, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year , filled with hope, unity, and countless blessings. 🎄✨ 🌟 Looking Forward to 2026 2025 was a year of connection, learning, creativity, and community collaboration . Every event — from environmental experiences to creative workshops, from weekly education programs to holiday celebrations — contributed to ACCAI’s commitment to uplift, empower, and strengthen  the Brasilito community. As we approach 2026, ACCAI will continue building on these foundations, expanding educational opportunities, deepening partnerships, and fostering spaces where children, youth, and families can thrive. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to La Marina Foundation  for your generous support, which makes our programs and initiatives possible. We also want to thank Mardi Gras  and TicoBeLike  for your support and contribution to our efforts. Your combined generosity helps create meaningful and joyful experiences for our community, and we are deeply grateful for your belief in our mission. Thank You to Our Local Business Sponsors We are deeply grateful to all the local businesses that sponsored our fundraising events throughout 2025. Your generosity and support played a vital role in helping us continue our programs, reach more students, and strengthen our community. Each contribution makes a real difference, and we are proud to celebrate these partnerships that empower learning, creativity, and growth. Thank you to: Students and families Dedicated tutors and volunteers Community partners like ADI Brasilito, the Tourist Police, Reserva Conchal, Futuro Brillante, UPE and local donors Supporters of learning, art, and community engagement Board of directors Your involvement creates impact. Together, we are building stronger futures — one child, one program, one community at a time. Our 2026 campaign is already underway in order to beging our tutoring program again in March next year , and we need your help to continue empowering students and strengthening our community. Every contribution counts — you can donate through the link we’re sharing  and be part of making the next year even brighter!  🎉✨ We wish all our students, teachers, sponsors, local businesses, and community members a 2026 filled with joy, growth, and new opportunities . May the year ahead bring continued learning, creativity, and meaningful connections that strengthen our community and inspire bright futures. 🌟💛

Saturdays at ACCAI: Education, Support, and Hope for Our Youth Every Saturday at ACCAI , our space transforms into a vibrant hub of learning, creativity, and care — all driven by one mission: to empower the youth of our community through education and support . Each week, we welcome around 55 students  who show up eager to learn, grow, and connect — a beautiful reminder of the impact consistent, community-driven education can have. Morning Sessions: Teens Building a Stronger Future From 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM , we welcome teenagers who participate in a well-rounded program that includes: Math and English tutoring  to strengthen their academic foundation Sports activities  to promote teamwork and physical health Art workshops or mentorship sessions  to nurture creativity and emotional growth A healthy snack and lunch  to ensure no one learns on an empty stomach These sessions go beyond academics. They provide structure, guidance, and a safe space where teens are seen, heard, and supported — a powerful alternative to the risks and distractions they face on the streets of Brasilito. 🎒 Afternoon Sessions: Early Learning, Strong Foundations 12:30 PM – 3:45 PM In the afternoon, we welcome our younger learners — from Pre-K to 6th grade  — for age-specific educational support and enrichment: Pre-K & Kindergarten : English lessons Art activities  to support creative and cognitive development 1st Grade : Reading and writing fundamentals English and Math tutoring 2nd to 6th Grade : Focused Math and English tutoring  to reinforce classroom learning and close academic gaps Each session is taught by caring tutors and volunteers who offer personalized attention and positive encouragement, helping students gain confidence in themselves and their abilities. At ACCAI , we believe in integral education —one that nurtures not only the mind, but also the heart, creativity, and spirit of every young person we serve. That’s why, in addition to our regular youth programs, we offer enriching workshops  that go beyond academics. We were incredibly honored to welcome the talented Rachel Harvey  for a couple of unforgettable art class  with our students! Rachel’s creativity, kindness, and passion lit up the room, turning it into a space full of imagination, self-expression, and pure joy. Our students were fully engaged, inspired, and had an amazing time bringing their ideas to life through art. You can see it on their faces — they absolutely loved every moment!  😍 Rachel, thank you so much for sharing your time and talent with us, and for your generous offer to return for more sessions. We can’t wait to welcome you back! Because when we nurture the whole person, we help our youth thrive.   💡 Why This Matters Our community faces deep educational inequality. Many of our children are several grade levels behind  their peers in other parts of the country. They live in vulnerable conditions, with limited access to quality education, technology, or academic support at home. At ACCAI, we believe education is the key to change . These Saturday programs aren’t just helping kids with homework — they’re keeping them safe, engaged, and inspired  to dream bigger. We would much rather see our kids in a classroom, learning and growing, than out on the streets where their futures are at risk. Additional Programs we offer Empowering Adults Through English – Thursday Evenings at ACCAI Every Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 PM , ACCAI opens its doors to adults in our community who are eager to learn and grow. We offer two free English classes  during this time: one for beginners  who are just starting their language journey, and another for intermediate learners  looking to build fluency and confidence. These classes are more than language lessons — they are a gateway to better job opportunities, stronger communication skills, and increased independence . In a world where English can open doors, we’re proud to provide a safe, supportive space for adults to invest in themselves, their families, and their futures. It’s never too late to learn — and every Thursday, our adult learners prove that. Strengthening ACCAI On Thursday, May 22 , ACCAI had the honor of being represented by Erika (Director of ACCAI) and Marcela (Coordinator Assistant)  at the third edition of "Me cuido por mí 2025"  — a powerful and inspiring event dedicated to women’s well-being and social impact . Organized and supported by Reserva Conchal , The Westin Hotel , and Voces Vitales , this gathering brought together women from diverse social and professional backgrounds in a space created by women, for women  — a space to learn, heal, and share . We are deeply grateful to Reserva Conchal  for inviting our team to be part of such a meaningful initiative. Events like these reflect the core values we hold at ACCAI: the importance of self-care, holistic well-being, and community connection  — especially for women who are so often the heart of families and communities. It was a day filled with powerful conversations, reflection, and genuine sisterhood. We left inspired and reminded that caring for ourselves is a radical and essential act of empowerment . Thank you  to the organizers for continuing to transform lives through wellness, compassion, and collective strength . We're proud to be part of a network that uplifts women and builds stronger communities — one connection at a time. Sports, Opportunity, and Community: ACCAI Partners with the Police Athletic Leagues  ⚽🥊🏊‍♂️🏃‍♀️ Over the past few months, ACCAI  has had the honor of joining forces with the Tourist Police  through the Police Athletic Leagues (LAP)  program — an inspiring initiative that uses sports to promote youth development, prevent risk situations, and strengthen community ties. As part of this collaboration, in May , around 25 of our students  took a meaningful step forward by applying for sports scholarships  offered through LAP. To support the process, we hosted an informative meeting on May 24th  with parents and guardians, alongside representatives from the Tourist Police and the ACCAI team. It was a valuable space to learn about the program’s goals and reaffirm our shared commitment to creating more opportunities for youth. Then, on Friday, June 13 , we were proud to participate in the official inauguration of the LAP program  at Brasilito Plaza . The event brought together around 40 children and teenagers from the communities of Brasilito and Potrero  for a fun-filled day of sports, camaraderie, and community connection. The Police Athletic Leagues , launched in 2020, are part of the Public Police Force’s  broader mission to prevent drug use, gender-based violence , and youth involvement in crime. By incorporating sports as a powerful preventive tool , LAP not only promotes physical health, but also fosters self-esteem, discipline, and teamwork in youth ages 12 to 19. The program currently offers training in: ✅ Soccer ✅ Boxing ✅ Swimming ✅ Track and Field At ACCAI, we firmly believe in the transformative power of sports  — not only as a path to physical development, but as a means to build life skills, create safe spaces, and open doors to a brighter future. We are deeply grateful to the Tourist Police , the LAP team , and all our partners for making this initiative possible. It’s a privilege to be part of such important work, and we’re excited to continue supporting our students as they grow, dream, and thrive — on and off the field. 💙 Planting Seeds of Awareness at the Environmental Fair 2025  🌎💚 On June 21st , thanks to the kind invitation of the Environmental Department of Marina Flamingo , 42 children and teens  from ACCAI had the chance to experience a day they’ll never forget — one filled with learning, creativity, and a deep connection with nature . From an underwater cleanup  and marine life exploration  to cultural dance , eco-art , and workshops on responsible fishing , every moment was designed to educate, inspire, and empower . These hands-on experiences helped our students see themselves not just as learners, but as protectors of the planet and leaders of their communities . This day was made possible by incredible community support: 💙 Reserva Conchal , for providing transportation 🍽️ Restaurante Pleamar , for the delicious, sponsored lunches At ACCAI, we believe that when you give a child the chance to connect with nature and culture , you help shape a future leader. To everyone that made this possible, thank you for believing in the power of experience, and for helping us build a better world, one child at a time.  🌱🌊 "Mar a la Vista": A Celebration of Youth, Art, and Ocean Awareness  🎨🌊 💙 On Wednesday, July 2nd , ACCAI had the honor of attending the official unveiling of the mural "Mar a la Vista"  at the Civic Center for Peace in Santa Cruz , by special invitation from Ms. Mitzy Salazar Morales , Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Santa Cruz. This powerful artwork was created by high school students from Brasilito, Matapalo, Huacas , and surrounding communities — including several talented youth from ACCAI  — as part of the IntegrArte  program, an initiative led by the Office of the First Lady of the Republic . More than just a beautiful mural, Mar a la Vista  is a collective expression of environmental awareness and artistic pride . It celebrates the richness and beauty of our marine ecosystems while encouraging deeper reflection on the urgent need to protect them. For the students involved, the experience was profound. As one of our participants shared: "It’s like reliving the experience." That sense of joy, pride, and ownership was written all over their faces — a reminder of how art can empower, educate, and unite . We are incredibly proud of our youth and grateful for opportunities like these, which allow them to share their voices and creativity with the wider community. We warmly invite everyone to visit the Civic Center for Peace  and witness this inspiring mural — a testament to what happens when young people are given space to express themselves and speak up for the planet. 🌎💚 🙌 Thank You for Believing in our mission This work is made possible thanks to the passion of our volunteer teachers and the generosity of supporters like you. Together, we’re offering these children a chance — not just to catch up, but to thrive. If you'd like to learn more, donate, or support our mission, don’t hesitate to reach out. Every bit of help counts — and every Saturday, lives are changing at ACCAI . A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Amazing Donors On behalf of ACCAI , we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our generous donors, your support means the world to us — and even more to the students you’re helping. We are incredibly grateful for your ongoing commitment to our mission an d for helping create an environment where our students can truly thrive . A huge Thank you to our lead teachers: Chris Trandafir David Cáceres Kristin Coffey Kristen Everling Alexandra Hill Chris Welsh Rod Marshall Liz Welsh Tracey Cobb Lori Rill A Grateful recognition to our board members: Marco A. Cruz: President Christopher Welsh: Vice-president Sharon Urbina: Secretary Cesar Abarca: Treasurer Sebastian Villa Gaviria: Vowel Sarah Eliza Martin: Vowel Silvia Cruz: Comptroller  Special thanks to our meal train donors: Roger & Lisa  Chelsey  Shelly  Kelly  Restaurante Pleamar  Restaurante Surf Box  Janice & John  BIO Fumigation  Punto Designer's Spot And last but not least a special thank you to our valued supporters: Your contributions make a real and lasting difference, and we’re honored to have you as part of our community. Together, we’re making an impact.  🙏

Welcome Back to ACCAI’s first blog of 2025! After a well-deserved break, we're excited to return and continue our Community-Led Initiatives, which are rooted in the belief that education is a powerful tool for positive change. These projects, driven by the ideas, skills, and passions of our amazing team, are designed to address the specific needs of those directly affected. We’re committed to fostering solutions that come from within, empowering individuals to create lasting change through education and collaboration. On January 11, five of our students began an exciting journey by starting an online English course that will run every Saturday throughout 2025, from 8 am to 12 pm! This incredible opportunity is made possible through our collaboration with the Office of the First Lady and the Centro Cultural Costarricense, who generously provided 25 scholarships to teenagers in our nearby communities. We’re thrilled that 5 of these scholarships were donated to ACCAI students, with 2 of them already being graduates who are now attending university. We couldn't be more proud of our students and their dedication to personal growth and success. This is just the beginning, and we can't wait to see all they will achieve in 2025! 🎓. We’re excited to share that on February 6th, ACCAI began offering English classes for adults in the beautiful community of Brasilito! In a tourist-friendly area like ours, learning English is more important than ever, and we’re proud to have 22 eager students improving their communication skills. 🌍 The classes are held every Thursday from 5 to 7 pm, with two English groups to accommodate everyone. A special thank you to teachers Alexandra, Johanna, Cheri, Tracey and Chris for their dedication and incredible work in making this project possible! 🙏❤️ We can’t wait to see the progress of all our students as we continue learning and growing together! 💪📚 ACCAI's First Day of Tutoring: A Heartwarming Experience We at ACCAI are thrilled to share some snapshots from our very first day of tutoring, which took place on Saturday, March 1st. It was a truly heartwarming and uplifting experience for our team as we had the opportunity to reconnect with our incredible students. The excitement and energy were palpable, and we couldn’t be prouder of how everything unfolded. Our program welcomed a diverse group of students, ranging from our youngest learners in PreK all the way up to high schoolers. We are pleased to announce that we currently have 55 students from PreK to 6th grade and 29 high school students who are joining us every Saturday. Our high school students attend tutoring sessions in math, English, and pickleball from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM , engaging in focused and interactive lessons. Meanwhile, our PreK to 6th grade students are with us from 12:30 PM to 3:45 PM , where they participate in lessons tailored specifically to their grade levels, including math, English, and specialized activities like reading and writing for our first graders. We aim to create an engaging and educational environment where our students not only learn but also thrive. In addition to our academic focus, we ensure that our students well-being is supported throughout the day. All of our students are provided with a snack, giving them the energy they need to stay engaged in their learning. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we are also able to offer our high school students a nutritious lunch, which helps them recharge and fosters a sense of community within the program. This enriching experience would not have been possible without the support of our lead teachers, our wonderful volunteers, and everyone who contributes to our feeding program. Your dedication and generosity make all the difference, and we are deeply grateful for your commitment to making this program a success. It is because of you that we are able to offer these valuable educational opportunities to our students. As we continue on this journey, we remain committed to providing a positive and impactful learning experience. We invite anyone interested in supporting our mission to reach out and get involved. Whether through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading the word, every bit of support helps us continue to make a difference in the lives of our students. Thank you to everyone who has already been a part of this incredible journey. Your support is what fuels our passion to keep moving forward, and together, we can continue making an impact in our community. We look forward to many more Saturdays of learning, growth, and connection! We are excited to announce the launch of our new sports initiative, offering our high school students the opportunity to explore and practice a variety of sports. A special thank you goes to Chris Welsh, whose expertise as a doctor brings invaluable knowledge to our program. Chris assists our students every Saturday, encouraging them to adopt healthier lifestyles and build strength. His professional insights, combined with the valuable workout equipment he provides, have greatly enhanced the quality of our sessions. We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to Victoria Bonilla from Costa Rica Health Coach, who offers an engaging and enjoyable Zumba class once a month. Both our students and staff have thoroughly enjoyed this fun and energizing experience. Additionally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Kathie Roberts for introducing pickleball every Saturday, and for continuously inviting new individuals to experience and support our program. We are deeply grateful to all of you who, through your time, effort, and enthusiasm, have helped make this wonderful initiative a reality for our teens each week! We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to several key supporters whose generous contributions have been vital in enhancing the educational experience for our students. Thanks to Yakira , we have been able to provide scientific calculators to our students for the third consecutive year. This thoughtful donation has been instrumental in supporting our students' success in their math studies. We are also deeply appreciative of La Marina , whose donation of school supplies allowed us to equip our students with the essential items they needed. This support has ensured that all of our students have access to the necessary materials for their learning. Additionally, we would like to express our sincere thanks to Librería Expresiones Stationery Store for their generous donation toward the binding of our students' English books. Their contribution has been crucial in improving the durability of our educational materials, ensuring that our students can benefit from them for an extended period. The valuable support of these organizations has played an essential role in improving the quality of education we provide, and we are incredibly grateful for their continued commitment to our mission. A heartfelt thank you to Futuro Brillante for including ACCAI in such a meaningful event and for creating a space where women can come together to share and empower one another. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of the workshop "Mujeres que Inspiran: Voces de Nuestra Comunidad | Conversatorio"  on Saturday, March 29th. This event provided a powerful platform for inspiring conversations, and we are thankful for the chance to be involved. This was the first field trip we took with the female students of our youth program, and it was an incredibly enriching experience. Our students enjoyed the event thoroughly and were deeply inspired by the powerful messages shared by the following incredible women: Mitzy Salazar , First Vice Mayor of the Municipality of Santa Cruz Shirley Molina , Head of the Department of Local Development and Support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MiPymes) Carolina Protti , Clinical Psychologist These women shared their leadership, knowledge, and passion, offering invaluable insights that not only inspired but also motivated our students to embrace their own potential and strength. Futuro Brillante’s dedication to personal development, well-being, and empowerment has created an invaluable space for growth, and we are excited to continue working together to offer more opportunities for learning and connection within our community. Together, we are stronger, and we look forward to future collaborations! As we reflect on the incredible experiences we've shared at ACCAI in just one month, we are filled with gratitude for the tremendous support we've received and the powerful alliances we've built with other organizations. The growth and expansion of our tutoring program, the development of our sports initiative, and our recent field trip with the youth program are just a few examples of how we continue to create meaningful opportunities for our students. We are deeply thankful to all of our partners, supporters and volunteers who have helped us provide essential resources, inspiring workshops, and enriching experiences for our community. These partnerships are truly invaluable, as they allow us to offer our students not only education but also encouragement, empowerment, and well-being. At ACCAI, we believe in the power of collaboration, and we are fortunate to work alongside organizations and individuals who share our vision of a brighter, stronger future for the young people in our community. Your support, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply being part of our journey, makes all the difference. Together, we are building a network of care, growth, and empowerment that will continue to benefit our students and their families for years to come. We are excited to keep moving forward, knowing that we are not alone in this mission. With each new partnership and every bit of support, we are strengthening the foundation for a community where every student has the chance to learn, grow, and succeed. Thank you for being an essential part of this incredible journey! We look forward to continuing to work together to create even more opportunities and make a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve. A special thank you to all of our generous Meal Train donors: Desiree Alison Partsch Restaurante Pleamar EJ Roger & Lisa A huge Thank you to our lead teachers: Chris Trandafir David Cáceres EJ Avey Kristin Coffey Kristen Everling Alexandra Hill Kathie Roberts Chris Welsh Cheri Barwinski Liz Welsh Many thanks go to our volunteers: Tracey Billings Chelsey Santry Gina DeSanto Melanie Bourdages Melissa Albiani Lori Rill Joana Kuchta Kelly Sturgeon A special thank you to our valued supporters: La Marina Expresiones Stationary Store And last but not least a Grateful recognition to our board members: Marco A. Cruz: President Christopher Welsh: Vice-president Sharon Urbina: Secretary Cesar Abarca: Treasurer Sebastian Villa Gaviria: Vowel Sarah Eliza Martin: Vowel Silvia Cruz: Comptroller

As we close out 2024, our hearts are full of gratitude and reflection. This year has been nothing short of incredible for ACCAI, filled with moments of growth, impact, and connection that have touched the lives of so many. We are deeply thankful for the unwavering support of our community, partners, and volunteers who have helped make our mission a reality. This year, our commitment to community empowerment and well-being has been at the forefront of our mission. We expanded our initiatives to better serve the diverse needs of our target population. What began as a program focused on high school students has now grown to include educational opportunities for younger children, from Pre-K through 6th grade, as well as adults. By broadening our offerings, we are addressing the educational and economic needs of individuals at every stage of life, empowering families and communities to thrive. These expanded programs are designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to create lasting, positive change in their lives and the broader community. Engaging English, Art, and Math Sessions for PreK to 6th Grade Students This year, we had the privilege of offering targeted educational support to 49 students, ranging from Pre-K to 6th grade, who participated in 25 engaging English with Art sessions. Additionally, 34 students from 1st to 6th grade received 25 focused math sessions to strengthen their skills. In response to the specific needs of our 6th graders preparing for the "National Standardized Summative Test", we provided extra math sessions to ensure they were well-prepared for this important standardized exam. Adult English Sessions Out of the 32 adult Grammar and Conversational English sessions offered, around 10 dedicated participants have consistently attended, showing great enthusiasm and making remarkable progress. We understand that work commitments can sometimes interfere with class attendance, yet those who have joined have demonstrated a deep commitment to improving their language skills. The participants are not only eager to engage in each session, but they've also shown significant growth in both their understanding and speaking abilities. The interactive and supportive learning environment has played a vital role in this progress. Over time, the group has developed a strong sense of solidarity, with participants often helping one another and sharing valuable tips to enhance their learning experience. We're excited to share that in addition, around 10 dedicated participants have successfully completed our 10-week Hotel Vocabulary in English program. Over the course of the program, learners gained essential vocabulary related to the hospitality industry, which will help them confidently communicate in hotel, concierge, housekeeping and restaurant environments and enhance their professional language skills. The program's interactive approach, combining discussions, role-plays, and practical exercises, ensured that learners were able to apply the vocabulary in real-life scenarios. Youth Program As an outcome of our initiative to support the young High School students in Brasilito and help them successfully complete high school, a total of 31 Math, English and Pickleball classes were conducted. These sessions provided students with valuable opportunities to ask questions, clarify doubts, and receive targeted assistance in preparation for their school evaluations. The program served a diverse group of students, including 12 seventh-graders, 2 eighth-graders, 3 ninth-graders, 1 tenth-grader, 5 eleventh-graders, and 1 twelfth-grader. Classes were held every Saturday from March to November, in alignment with the Costa Rican academic calendar, ensuring that students received consistent academic support throughout the year. OUR EVALUATION METHOD FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS Throughout 2024, we’ve closely monitored the academic progress of the High School students we work with, particularly in the areas we believe are most critical to their success—English and math. English, in particular, plays a vital role in opening doors to future opportunities, especially given the tourism-driven economy of our area. As part of our commitment to supporting student growth, we track grades and use this data to create detailed charts that measure performance improvement and the overall impact of our programs. This year, we are proud to report significant progress across the board. Many of our students have shown remarkable advancement, and we are especially thrilled to highlight one student's exceptional achievement. Last year, this student was struggling with math big time, but this year, he brought in an exam with a perfect score of 100—a testament to his hard work and dedication. However, as with any program, there are areas where improvement is still needed. Three students, all in seventh grade, did not meet the minimum score for English, and one student fell short in Math. We recognize that the transition from primary school to high school can be a challenging adjustment, particularly with the shift from basic English instruction to a more advanced curriculum that includes conversational English. To support these students, we are excited to announce that our English and Math tutors will be offering one-on-one sessions starting in January to help them prepare for their upcoming tests in February. To provide a clearer picture of the progress we've made, we are pleased to share the performance charts for 2024, which highlight the academic improvements and impact of our efforts throughout the year. Other completed activities throughout the year Medi Life Medical Clinic: 83 participants all ages Virtual reality workshop for 1st grade to 12th grade students: 38 participants Human trafficking prevention workshop with our Youth: 23 participants 6 sessions of Personal Security for Women: 7 women above 15 years old “Hamlet”  Musical play at Reserva Conchal Convention Center: 20 High School students “Women's Health Day”, from the Wellbeing initiative of the First Lady’s office: 13 women from our youth group and ladies from the community. Environmental Festival at La Marina in Flamingo: 40 students from 4th grade to 12th grade End of the year party from Prek to 6th grade: 48 participants Catamaran End of the year Tour: 35 participants total from our group of High school students, teachers and volunteers. Sparkle & Shine Toy Drive Campaign: 85 students from all ages Scholarships for our students to study English online in 2025 at the Centro Cultural Costarricense Norteamericano: 3 High School students and 1 graduate The Highlight of the Year! IntegrARTE At ACCAI , we are honored to have participated in the IntegrArte  initiative, spearheaded by the Office of the First Lady of Costa Rica, Signe Zeikate. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Futuro Brillante  for organizing and including us in this meaningful initiative, alongside other respected organizations such as CEPIA, Adi Matapalo, ADIT Tamarindo , and Reserva Conchal . Under the guidance of artist Carlos Hiller, 23 of ACCAI's students contributed to the creation of the mural, where they not only gained valuable knowledge about marine life and the importance of preserving Costa Rica’s natural resources but also developed social skills, enhanced emotional regulation, and improved interactions with others. The completed artwork was proudly showcased at the High-Level Event on "Ocean Action: Immersed in Change" , where two of our students had the privilege of attending at the Convention Center in Cariari, San José . Representing their community with enthusiasm and pride, they were able to meet the President of Costa Rica , reconnect with the First Lady , and engage with key government officials and international delegates. This experience was not only a confidence booster but also a deeply inspiring moment for our students, who felt privileged to be part of such an important global conversation on ocean conservation. We wrapped up the year with two incredible activities, one of which was a special Catamaran tour for our Youth Group, teachers and volunteers , generously donated by Boomerang Tours . Sailing on their beautiful catamaran, Zafira , was an unforgettable experience. As we cruised across the stunning turquoise waters, laughter and joy filled the air. Our students had a blast kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming in the crystal-clear sea, while everyone bonded over shared adventures and breathtaking views. The day was made even more special with delicious food, thanks to Perry Carlile , and with the beautiful moments he captured through his lens. His contribution added to the joy of the day and helped preserve these unforgettable memories. We are deeply thankful for the support that made this day possible and for everyone who contributed to another year of growth and success. A perfect way to end the year! 🌊⛵🎉 Our other special activity to close 2024 happened on Saturday, December 21st and we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible English teacher, Kristin Coffey , and her dedicated team of volunteers for their exceptional work in organizing the Sparkle and Shine Toy Drive Campaign . 🎁✨ This initiative brought immense joy to 85 students , ranging from Pre-K to 12th grade, along with a few younger children as well. 🎉 Kristin and her team worked tirelessly to ensure the campaign’s success, creating a magical experience for the children and spreading cheer in ways that will be cherished for years to come. Their unwavering commitment, compassion, and hard work made a profound impact on the lives of these students, and served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community and generosity. A sincere thank you to everyone involved for making this holiday season so special for so many. 🎄🎅 We are deeply grateful for your contributions and for making this season unforgettable! As we look back on the year, we are reminded of the power of coming together and the profound difference we can make when we work with purpose and passion. This blog is a celebration of all that we’ve accomplished and the lives we’ve touched—thanks to your generosity and dedication. Thank you to our main Sponsor: and thank you to: Thank you to all the businesses for hosting events, supporting us with gift certificates in order to raise funds for ACCAI A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated lunches and snacks for our Youth Program throughout the year. Your generosity has helped provide nourishment and care to the young people we serve. We truly appreciate your kindness and commitment to making this program a success. A special thank you to our amazing group of volunteers and wonderful moms who dedicated their time and energy to organizing events for ACCAI. Your hard work, creativity, and passion made every event a success, and your commitment to our cause is truly inspiring. Together, we are building something truly special! A big thank you to our amazing group of teachers and volunteers!  Your dedication and hard work make a real difference in the lives of our students. We are incredibly grateful for your time, effort, and passion. Thank you for everything you do! Kristin Ej Alexandra David Kristen Myra Chris Kathie Graciela Thank you to our board members and accountants Karen Liz Erika Yuli Marco Cesar Sharon Jerome To wrap up this year’s reflections,  we at ACCAI want to wish you all a Merry Christmas  and a Happy New Year ! 🎄🎉 We are so grateful for the support and love we've received throughout 2024, and we can’t wait to see what 2025  has in store for ACCAI . Together, we will continue to grow, support, and nurture our beautiful community. Here's to another year of making a positive impact and spreading kindness! 💙

After a refreshing break in July, we were thrilled to be back in action, ready to dive into the exciting months ahead. Our classrooms were once again buzzing with enthusiasm as we welcomed our students back for engaging sessions filled with learning, creativity, and growth. That Thursday brought the joy of seeing our youngest learners returned for their English, art, math, and reading and writing lessons. Their energy and eagerness to learn truly brighten up our days. We were equally excited to see our dedicated teens on Saturdays, ready to continue their academic journey with focus and determination. Our adult learners too, have returned to their Thursday English lessons, bringing with them a strong desire to improve and refine their language skills. A Heartfelt Thank You to Angelina's Restaurant for Supporting ACCAI! We are incredibly grateful to Angelina's Restaurant for hosting a wonderful bingo event on July 27th in support of ACCAI. Thanks to their generosity and the enthusiastic participation of the community, we were able to raise $500! We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Lisa Estler for making delicious Cosmopolitans on July 5th, which helped raise additional funds for ACCAI. These contributions will go directly toward supporting our tutoring programs, ensuring that we can continue providing valuable educational services to students who need them most. Your support makes a real difference, and we couldn't be more thankful for everyone who contributed to this success. Nurturing Healthy Habits and Mental health Workshops: Two Sessions for Our Children On August , we had the pleasure of hosting two workshops focused on healthy eating and mental health for our little ones. This engaging sessions highlighted the importance of nutrition and nurturing mental health at an early age and its vital role in laying the groundwork for optimal physical and mental development as it greatly influences their emotional, social, and academic development. Healthy eating habits established during childhood can have a lasting impact, promoting well-being and enhancing quality of life into adulthood. By equipping our young participants with knowledge about nutritious food choices, we aim to foster lifelong habits that support overall health. Empowering Women: Participation in Women's Health Day On Friday, August 23rd, we had the honor of participating in the inaugural "Women's Health Day," organized by the Office of the First Lady of the Republic, Signe Zeikate, as part of her Well being initiative. We extend our gratitude to Futuro Brillante for the invitation to engage in important discussions about women's health, including pre-menopause and menopause. This event allowed women from various communities to share valuable information and personal experiences. The following day, on Saturday 24th, we had the opportunity to bring the girls from our youth program to receive information about menstrual health. Once again, they had the chance to share with the First Lady of the Republic. Such conversations are vital for empowering women and girls to take charge of their health. We look forward to continuing our efforts in supporting their well-being in our communities. Empowering Our Community: Training on the Prevention of Human Trafficking On Saturday, September 7, we held an important training session on the prevention of human trafficking at ACCAI. This session was brought for our students, parents, and members of the community, aiming to raise awareness about this critical issue. Human trafficking involves the recruitment, transportation, or receipt of individuals through threats, force, deception, or abuse of power. It includes giving or receiving payments for exploitation purposes, which can encompass the exploitation of prostitution, forced labor, slavery, servitude, or even the removal of human organs. By educating ourselves about these alarming realities, we empower our community to recognize the signs and take action. Being informed is the first step in prevention! We thank Warnath Group for providing us with such vital training and encourage ongoing dialogue about how we can protect our community from the threat of human trafficking. A Day of Learning and Fun at La Marina’s Environmental Festival We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to La Marina in Flamingo for inviting our children to participate in their Environmental Festival. The day was filled with incredible learning opportunities and hands-on experiences that truly connected our young ones to the wonders of nature. Our children had the chance to dive into a workshop about the life cycle of turtles, gaining a deeper understanding of these magnificent creatures and the challenges they face. They also explored the importance of our local estuaries and the crucial role they play in supporting biodiversity. Plus, they learned about conscious fishing practices that help protect our oceans for future generations. It was truly a beautiful day filled with education, excitement, and a renewed appreciation for our environment. Thank you, La Marina, for helping us inspire the next generation of environmental stewards! Together, we’re helping create brighter futures! Support ACCAI in Our Mission to Empower the Community of Brasilito As we enter the last months of the year, your support is more crucial than ever. ACCAI has been dedicated to bringing tutoring, educational resources, and community support to the families of Brasilito, and we need your help to continue this mission. By contributing, you’re helping ensure that ACCAI can keep providing vital tutoring and resources that empower children and families in our community. Every donation makes a difference, no matter the size, and brings us closer to our goal of a brighter, more supportive future for Brasilito. If you feel inspired to be part of this mission, here are our bank account details for donations: Banco de Costa Rica Colones: CR20015201001050480108 Dollars: CR21015201001050480284      Banco Nacional  Colones: 1-200-01-193-014055-0 IBAN CR10 0151 1932 0010 Dollars:1 200-02-193-004525-1 IBAN CR35 0151 1932 0020 We are deeply grateful for your generosity and support. Together, we can make these last months of the year count for our community! If you have any questions about our organization or would like to learn more about how you can get involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always excited to connect with individuals who share our passion for supporting the community and making a positive impact. Feel free to contact us. We’d love to hear from you and explore ways to collaborate! Here's to the rest of the year—full of learning, laughter, and growth! We would like to thank our sponsors: La Marina Foundation Mardi Grass 360 Splendor del Pacífico Jean and Joe Gillen Our supporters on the meal program: Ej Chelsey Canatico Warnath La Marina Flamingo Our group of teachers and volunteers: Chris Ej Alexandra Kristin Kristen Kathie and all her pickleball team Chelsey David Graciela Our supporters for the Bingo Event Angelina's Restaurant Shak Restaurant & Bar Hotel Bahía del Sol Punto Designer's Spot Tacos y Amigos Restaurant BOA Harlan Clark Surfside Brewery Marlin del Rey Boomerang Tours Casa Nova

During the High Level Event on Ocean Action: Immersed in Change on June 7th, the artwork of 64 boys and girls from Villareal, Huacas, Brasilito and Matapalo was showcased at the Third United Nations Ocean Conference that took place at Centro de Convenciones in San José. At the summit, participants from "IntegrArte-Guanacaste," spearheaded by the First Lady and artist Carlos Hiller, presented their eight-piece artwork titled "Mar a la Vista" to delegates from participating countries. The students shared their experiences and the significance behind each panel with notable figures including the President of the Republic, the Minister of Environment and Energy, and the special envoy of the United Nations secretary-general for the ocean. It was truly inspiring to witness the involvement of young people in such a significant event, showcasing their passion for the ocean and marine life. Special thanks go to the First Lady Signe Zeikate for her visionary initiative, Futuro Brillante for all the coordination and hard work to make this possible, Cepia and Reserva Conchal for transportation support and for enabling our students to participate in this crucial international summit. And congratulations to both our students Ivan and Karoline on their well-deserved recognition! We are thrilled to see them selected for this incredible opportunity. Their hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and we couldn't be prouder of them. This is a testament to their talent, perseverance, and passion, and we have no doubt they will make the most of this unforgettable experience. 📚✏️ Exciting News! 🌟 Introducing English, Math and Reading and Writing Classes for Our Little Ones! 🌈 We're thrilled to announce that ACCAI is now offering engaging and interactive English classes for children from pre-k to 6th grade. Kristin is a fantastic teacher who is making English classes enjoyable and engaging for children from pre-k to 6th grade. Her fun and dynamic approach is sure to make learning English a positive and exciting experience for her students. By introducing a second language at a young age, children are more likely to develop fluency and accuracy, making it a valuable skill that can benefit them throughout their lives. At ACCAI, we are proud of providing this opportunity for our students to develop this valuable skill. ACCAI is also offering additional support in math for students who need it, specifically from 2nd to 6th grade, thanks to the expertise of teacher David. His patience and charisma are likely making a significant difference in the learning experience of his students, helping them build confidence and mastery in math. Last but not least, our young learners of Kindergarten and First grade will now have the opportunity to embark on an enriching journey through reading and writing classes. These fundamental skills are essential for their development, enabling them to communicate, express themselves, and explore the world around them. Through the power of words, our children will not only acquire new skills and expand their vocabulary but also ignite their imagination and foster critical thinking. The benefits extend further, promoting concentration, memory, and cognitive abilities. A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated volunteer, Inge Marie, a professional in Psychopedagogy, who will lead this important program. Professor Inge's expertise extends even further as she provides invaluable support to families with children with autism, making her contribution all the more significant. The generous donation from The Mystics of Mardi Gras will undoubtedly make a significant impact in providing the necessary materials for these classes, allowing children to have a more enriching learning experience. Let's empower our younger ones and celebrate the joy of learning together! 🌟📖 Well, talk about ending Ocean's Month with a bang! 🌟 On June 22nd, we were able to bring an amazing and immersive experience for our students! Virtual reality is a fantastic way to engage students in learning about the importance of environmental conservation, especially when it comes to marine life. By taking them on a virtual trip to impressive underwater destinations, we're allowing them to explore and learn about the biodiversity of oceans in a way that's both exciting and educational. By providing this unique and engaging experience, we're not only educating our students about the importance of ocean conservation, but also making it a memorable and enjoyable experience for them. It was a great way to foster a sense of excitement and curiosity about the ocean and its inhabitants, which can lead to a lifelong appreciation for the importance of protecting our planet's marine ecosystems. Thanks to our loyal supporters who made this possible, not only to be able to bring this amazing experience but also helped us to provide lunch for all participants! We're sure our students will be talking about this experience for a long time to come! 🌈 What a fantastic way to end the first half of the year! 📚✏️ Teacher Kristin and the students had a great time with a variety of activities such as games, balloons, a scavenger hunt, musical chairs, and more. It's great that the students could relax and enjoy themselves before the two-week break. I'm confident that the students will cherish the time spent with Teacher Kristin and will eagerly anticipate her return when school resumes. It is with immense gratitude that we extend our appreciation to our sponsors, donors and volunteers for their unwavering support. Your trust in our mission and commitment to our community has been the driving force behind our progress, and we are truly humbled by your kindness. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact and create a brighter future for all! Many thanks to: La Marina Foundation The Mystics of Flamingo Brothers of Ale Thanks for supporting our meal program: A Lo Nico Surf Box BIO Fumigation Kristin Alexandra Kattia Virginia Chelsey Liz & Chris Marcela A Lo Nico Surf Box Marco Thanks to our great team: Kristin Alexandra Ej Kristen Chris David Graciela Inge Kathie

Starting sessions in March 2024 with 25 high school students from Brasilito was a delightful experience. It's heartwarming to see familiar faces and welcome new ones. The mix of returning and fresh students brings a sense of joy and excitement to the learning environment. It's truly rewarding to witness the growth and progress of these students. We are eager to continue our collaboration with them and play a role in shaping their future. Being a part of this journey is a privilege that brings us immense joy and fulfillment. Receiving a donation of $25,000 from the Flamingo Marina Foundation is a significant boost for our organization. This generous contribution will enable us to not only sustain our current programs but also expand our reach. With this support, we can continue to provide valuable services to our community and even hire additional tutors to enhance the quality of our educational programs.   We are so thankful! This year, a diverse group of tutors and volunteers will be offering their expertise in various subjects and activities. Federico, Chris, and Alexandra will be working on math lessons, while Kristin, Kristen, Ej, Darla, and Alexandra will be focusing on English tutoring. Kathie and the pickleball volunteers will be lending their skills to sports activities. Rachel will be offering art lessons, while David will be guiding students in reading and writing. This lineup of educators and volunteers promises a well-rounded educational experience for students this year. Here are a few pictures of our first day of sessions of 2024: First day of pickleball thanks to Kathie and all her volunteers! Also we would like to thank Gordon and Cherise Selley for donating pickleball paddles to our students! Having dedicated reading and writing lessons led by one of our teachers David  greatly enhances the learning experience for students. With personalized guidance from a skilled educator, students can improve their literacy skills efficiently. This focused approach ensures that students receive the attention and support they need to excel in these fundamental areas. The presence of a dedicated teacher like David ensures a high-quality learning experience. Thank you and welcome to the team profe David! Adding art classes led by talented artist like Rachel Harvey to our  high school youth program is crucial for fostering emotional development and creativity in our youth. These classes provide a platform for students to express themselves in ways that may not be possible through traditional academic subjects. By engaging in art, students can explore their emotions, develop empathy, and enhance their problem-solving skills. Moreover, the creative aspect of art classes allows students to think outside the box, encouraging innovative thinking and self-expression. Thank you Rachel for donating your valuable time to us! We have been able to launch two more programs that started on Thursday, April 4th  that marks a significant step towards creating a safer and more empowered community for people of all ages. English lessons for adults: Starting with 16 registered participants is a promising beginning. This will create an opportunity for adults to improve their English language skills in a supportive environment.   Beginner English lessons lay the groundwork for further language acquisition. They establish essential vocabulary and grammar principles. Learning basic English can instill confidence in adults. It empowers them to communicate effectively in various situations.  Beginner English lessons help adults integrate into English-speaking communities. This fosters a sense of belonging and understanding. Thank you teacher Alicia, Johanna and Alexandra! Empowering Women's Security Program:  Cheryl Elferis' initiative fosters community bonds by empowering 12 women, aged 16 and above, with essential security skills. This program equips participants with knowledge and tools to enhance their personal safety and well-being on a 6 week program. Cheryl's tips empower women to feel safe no matter where they are. Her advice provides a sense of security and confidence offering valuable strategies for staying safe in various situations. Cheryl's guidance is invaluable for women seeking to navigate the world with a greater sense of safety and awareness. Thank you Cheryl! March 16th: Hosting a Bingo event at Angelina's is always a fantastic way to raise funds for our non profit organization. Events like these not only help gather donations but also create a sense of community around our cause. It's through the support of individuals like Bashir and the attendees that nonprofits can continue their vital work and make a difference.  Thank you Bashir! And thank you Jeff for your generosity and for calling the numbers for us! Also we would like to thank businesses and individuals who sponsored us on this great event: Angelina's Restaurant, Punto Designer's Spot, Canatico Pizzeria Bar and Grill, Kneaded Massage & Yoga, Sea Star Souvenirs, Boomerang Tours, A lo Nico Restaurant and last but not least the talented artist Jacques Hervot . Without your support this event wouldn't have been such a success! The Youth feeding program on Saturdays is a cherished moment for our students, thanks to the delicious meals prepared by our supporters. This initiative not only nourishes their bodies but also provides them with a sense of anticipation and joy each week. The support received for this program is invaluable, as it ensures that our students have access to nutritious and fulfilling meals, creating a positive impact on their overall well-being. We would like to thank our Supporters of our Youth Feeding Program: Kattia, Chelsey, Chris, Marcela, A lo Nico. If you would like to support ACCAI or  volunteer, please reach out to us.  Your help can make a significant difference in our ability to positively impact the community. Contact us today to find out how you can contribute and be a part of our mission. As we bid farewell for now, we do so with gratitude and anticipation for what 2024 holds for our non-profit organization ACCAI and the exciting projects we have planned for the community. Our commitment to making a positive impact remains steadfast, and we eagerly look forward to the opportunities and growth that the new year will bring for our initiatives and the people we aim to serve. Sincerely, Erika & Karen

As we conclude an extraordinary year, we want to express our deepest gratitude to each of our supporters, sponsors, volunteers and devoted students. Every comment, share, like, and donation has enabled us to successfully carry out our mission. We are proud to provide our nonprofit tutoring program to high school students, helping to shape future leaders of the world. Let's embrace 2024, and continue this journey of education, growth, and success together. Thank you for believing in ACCAI's mission and for becoming our sponsors In joint efforts with The Oficina de la Mujer, and The Municipalidad of Santa Cruz we were able to bring two workshops on "How to encourage healthy & positive relationships" and "Myths of romantic love". On these workshops the youth from our program were able to discuss and learned how to distinguish between a relationship that helps one become a better person and another one that causes resentment and hurt, subjects that are very important to work with the teens in order to help them be conscious about building healthy relationships based on love, dialogue and respect and break the cycle of any kind of abuse or violence. Thank you Municipalidad de Santa Cruz for bringing such a valuable tool to our youth. To promote the commemoration of International day of prevention of violence against women on November 24th, we organized a walk with the kids from La Paz school, to make a call and raise our voices in order to eradicate violence against women. A big thank you to La Paz School Cabo Velas for this very important initiative, to teacher Claudia, and every participating student, to Cepia and to the Local Police for all the support. On November 18th we had a closing ceremony for 20 teens that finished the school year successfully. This was a very especial event to us for being our first year and made us reflect on how it was just a dream a year ago. Today the Youth tutoring program is a reality in Brasilito and we are doing our best to continue with the teens in Villareal and to also bring a math tutor for them on 2024! We are thrilled to be part of the lives of these amazing teens, who with dreams and hopes strive to build a better world for themselves and their families. To those who will start next year we welcome you ,and to those who are leaving, we wish you all the best in your new journey, may it be a great success and hopefully we will meet again! To all our small but mighty team of volunteers, thank you very much for allowing us through you to help so many people. To Kathie Roberts and Pickle on the Hill Brasilito Pickleball people, thank you for the beautiful gifts! The kids and team were super happy! On November 25th we were given the opportunity to spend a beautiful morning sailing with our youth and team. It was a beautiful experience, and the kids really enjoyed it. We all spend it playing in the water, sharing and bonding with each other. What a joy to the sight! This experience would not have been possible without the generosity of our friends Jeff and Debra and their friendly staff from Zafira Catamaran Sailing Costa Rica, to whom we want to shout out a big thank you for this unforgettable experience, to many a first time on a catamaran! Thank you Perry Carlile for capturing all the beautiful moments on the camera! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Angelina's and Brother's of Ale for opening their doors to us, enabling us to host our Bingo and Poker Tournament Fund raising event. This successful initiative has empowered us to continue our mission with our non-profit youth tutoring program Big thank you also to talented Enoch and Stephanie Waltrip for donating their time and talent to this special event! Thanks to our dedicated group of volunteers, Kristin, Kristen, Ej and, Tammy for all your help during these events, that will allow us to provide much-needed support to at-risk youth, lighting the path to a brighter future. Special thanks to our raffle and silent auction sponsors, your generosity has truly made a difference. Together, we are making an impact! As the year draws to a close, the Directors of ACCAI take this moment to express gratitude for an incredible journey. We are immensely thankful for the unwavering support of our sponsors, the relentless dedication of our volunteers, and the rallying spirit of our supporters. Your belief fuels our mission of empowering the youth through education. So, here's to another year of educational empowerment! Wishing you all a Happy New Year filled with hope, prosperity, and the joy of giving. Sincerely, Erika & Karen Thanks to our amazing team and volunteers Tammy Walker Ej Avey Federico Robledo Kristin Coffey Kathie Roberts Kristen Everling Dione Price Chris John Hellen Sam Kattia Rebecca Graciela Brian Nhs Brittany Chamberlin Marco Cruz Thanks to our supporters and sponsors Flamingo Marina Foundation 360 Splendor del Pacifico Blue Water Properties Navarro & Alpizar Laboratorio Clinico Sayaka McPherson Melonie Wise Gordon & Cherise Selley 2 Aves Towels $ blankets Roxana Obando Estudio de Ceramica Guatil, Tamarindo Dragonfly Creations Ronny Perry Sharon Kay Bingham Harlan Clark Rachel Harvey Andrea & Russell King Melissa Chemelli Sea Star Souvenir Store Nalu Restaurante Seis Playas Hotel y Restaurante Deli Cafe Angelina's Restaurant & Bar Brothers of Ale Municipalidad de Santa Cruz Oficina de la mujer Zafira Catamaran Sailing Costa Rica Serendipity Charters Cream Rica Heladeria Patagonia del Mar Amigos Tacos & Beer Canatico Marlin del Rey Rancho Costafalo Kneaded Massage & Yoga with Kristen Punto Designers Spot Casa Marlin Hotel Bahia del Sol Hazel's Steak & Seafood Pura Vida Ride

Proud to present you the Costa Rican culture! Did you see the performance of the folklore dance troupe at the Independence Day celebration in Brasilito on September 17th? ACCAI offers multiple opportunities designed to stimulate the potential and creative capacity of our adolescents and in this case also other members of our community. Now our folk dance group rehearses twice a week in our facilities to bring the beautiful dances to different activities! This program is possible thanks to our alliance with The Garden of Artists. This is so important to all of us because it provides preservation of our cultural heritage in addition to physical exercise, personality development, teamwork and the lesson of artistic expression for the members in our community. In addition, the dances are graceful and beautiful!! We will keep you posted when their next performance! Now we are in Villareal! We are thrilled to announce that we are now in Villareal! Thanks to the passion and love of Dione, one of our volunteers, after a few meetings and some planning we managed to bring our English as a Second Language program to Villareal. We are deeply grateful to Dione and his friends who generously donated the books and materials to start with the classes on Saturday the 7th. Thank you Calvary Chapel for allowing the use of your building. What a success this has been! Just on their second session on Saturday the 21st they had 17 students! Dione expresses he enjoys teaching English to the kids in Villareal and that they are very enthusiastic and highly energetic to learn. It was surprising to him that students were not shy at all! We are deeply thankful to John and Helen Lopez, Sam Ray, Su and of course Dione that volunteered to help make this a reality! They all decided to help our community so this worked out perfectly for them. They look forward to every session! ACCAI's goal is to eventually be able to hire a math tutor for these kids of Villareal and little by little implement the program to match that of Brasilito. That is why we need all the support we can get. If you would like to donate for this cause please click on the following button. Math is a struggle for many of us! Here at ACCAI we realized a need for more help than we were already offering. We decided to hire an additional math tutor to come and provide further help to those students who needed a little extra support with the subject. Graciela comes to our location in Brasilito from 5:00-7:00 pm every Tuesday to work with the kids one-on-one. This service is especially for the students who are failing or in dire need of assistance. All of the ACCAI students continue to receive the regular math class on Saturdays with our super profe Federico, and have the option to work with tutors (Math, Physics & English) during their scheduled Pickleball training as well. Students are gaining confidence and skills with this additional service. We would like to share a success story of one of our students who has always agonized with arithmetic. However, in her last exam she scored a 90%! Her Mother wrote us a nice note to show her appreciation: "It's the first time I've seen my daughter's math exam with such an excellent grade. Thank you so much!" Great Job teacher Federico y Graciela! Henrietta the musical!! What a great evening our students had! On Friday, September 1st, we had the opportunity to attend the Henrietta Musical Theater production, a work of cultural interest carried out at the Coopeguanacaste Convention Center in Santa Cruz. A spectacular Broadway-style musical theater production with which in a beautiful way they managed to recreate important historical processes of Costa Rica such as its formation as a new Republic, with a first class cast. The kids who attended really enjoyed this opportunity. For many of them it was the first time attending a play. Thanks to sponsors who, with their valuable contribution, managed to bring such an important production to Guanacaste. We especially thank the Teatro Espressivo for the invitation and the great opportunity they gave our students to participate and enjoy art through theater and music. Hopefully it won't be the last time! Also we would like to express our gratitude to those who have supported us because with your generosity we were able to provide transportation and dinner to all of our student at the Convention Center. Your support is so important to us! The passion of ACCAI Our focus may be the youth of Brasilito but we believe a healthy community is much more than that. This is why ACCAI partners with organizations like Rancho Costafalo and Mission Activation to bring needed services to our community. Through collaboration with Rancho Costafalo, ACCAI hosted our first health fair on Wednesday, August 23rd. 18 people from the community were attended by doctors from Mission Activation. This event wouldn't have been possible without the support and collaboration of Rancho Costafalo and Mission Activation. Thanks to all these people for their contribution in the effort to bring needed medical care to our community! Hotel English 10 week curriculum ACCAI now is offering a 10 week hotel English course as a mean of obtaining funds for our organization. We just successfully finished our first group with 360 Splendor del Pacifico. We feel very grateful to the administration personal for giving us the opportunity to bring this training to their staff and also helping us get funds to continue with our mission. The students show their appreciation to the opportunity given to them, for some it was their first English class ever and that made it challenging but they never stop showing their interest and effort to improve themselves. If you want more information about this program, do not hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to assist you. Last but not least! ... BINGO! Did you know you can create meaningful opportunities for the youth in our community while enjoying a fun night out with friends!? ACCAI, together with some of our local business, friends and sponsors, regularly hosts a fund raising BINGO game! Play bingo, win prizes, play the raffle! All while giving back to the youth in our community. Subscribe to our Facebook page and watch for the details of our next fun event! We are very excited and grateful, because our second bingo fundraiser was a success. We want to especially thank all the people who collaborated through their donations of prizes for the raffles and silent auction, and all those who came to collaborate. Thanks to you, ACCAI can continue and greatly benefit the youth of our community, who need us so much. Additionally, with your help we can continue to provide: Tutorials in mathematics & Physics, English as a Second Language, Pickle ball, Mentoring & Art. Our motto is “Young people studying and not on the streets” We are deeply grateful to all of you who helped made this possible and continue with your support to us! Rachel Harvey Pan de Azúcar The Shack Punto Designer's Spot Roxana Obando Kneaded Massage & Yoga Canatico Pizzeria Bar and Grill Panache Sailing Deli café Angus orgánico Hazel's Steak & Seafood Angelina's Restaurant & Bar Thank you Kathie Roberts y @Jeff Goode for helping organize and call the Bingo! Sincerely, Erika & Karen

Conscious Community Association and Integral Attention On Saturday, June 17th we had the priviledge of bringing a bit of fun to the senior citizens. This activity was made possible thanks to the joint work of ACCAI and ADI (Asociacion de Desarrollo Integral de Brasilito). Our goal was to create a safe space where our elders would have time to socialize and have fun at the same time at no cost at all. There were games, prizes, food and dancing! We would like to thank all relatives of the participants and those who helped to make this possible. A big thank you to Deli Cafe cafeteria and Patagonia Del Mar restaurant for the delicious refreshments, thanks to them our golden citizens enjoyed an exquisite coffee and pastries. #we together are a conscious community! On Saturday, June 24th our teens had a space where they expressed artistically their thoughts of ACCAI and what this program means to them. We then exhibit all drawings and they decided which one they like the best and the winner got a delicious milkshake, which thanks to Deli Cafe we get to give out every Saturday! ACCAI is an initiative designed to stimulate the potential and creative capacity of adolescents through artistic expression, access to education, and the practice of physical and sports activities aimed at personality development, teamwork and health care. Support and/or reinsertion of young people in the formal education system is encouraged, opportunities for guidance and mentoring are created, and tools are offered for future job placement. This accompaniment is complemented by material assistance to support the activities of adolescents, which contributes to the development of their autonomy. Encouragement of participation and support of activities. Guidance and individual and group accompaniment. Support for sustaining formal schooling. Accompaniment to the development of autonomy Guidance and support in comprehensive health care Promotion of healthy habits Attention to different situations of violation of rights. It's very important for us to be aware of the feelings and emotions our teens are going through in our program and for us to leave a mark in their lives. That is our goal, to make a change, to offer a safe and pleasant space for the youth. Below is an image of Nerling who made this beautiful drawing! Thanks to our volunteers hard work and excellent coaching our teens are receiving pickleball practice every Saturday, and they are getting really good at it! We cannot thank Kathie Roberts enough and her team of volunteers for leading this space so important for our youth and that they appreciate so much. Also from behalf of the pickleball team, our kids have received tennis shoes for their practices. Their faces of happiness and gratitude were priceless! We feel so fortunate to have members of our community and visitors with such a good heart that wishes to support our youth. A big thank you to the pickleball team! And so we came to a two-week break from school. As part of our farewell, on Friday, June 30th we prepared a movie night for our teens. Together we laughed and enjoyed the movie "School of Rock", while eating popcorn with some drinks and cookies. Thank you Perry Carlile for donating and preparing the pop corn. July 1st. Beach Party time! We ended this first phase of our program with tons of fun at the beach. Our teens played volleyball, had some boogie boarding fun, played other games, had ice cream, drinks, fruit, big bag of candies and lunch and most importantly they all connected with each other.! As always we wish to thank our volunteers, Dione Prior, Kristin, Ej, Kathie, Federico, Chelsey, Dra. Navarro, Chuck, Ruth, Meisel, and other parents who are always so supportive to us. On Saturday, July 22nd we had our first Bingo game benefiting ACCAI. It was held at Perla's and was filled with fun, winners and most importantly people with great hearts. Thanks to the Pickleball team, Kathie Roberts and John Moore for helping us make this possible, Angelina's Restaurant, Amigos Tacos & Beer, Canatico Pizzeria Bar & Grill, to Jeff Goode for being our Bingo Host and Kristin Coffey for your great support. We would also like to thank all of the people who attended and collaborated one way or another, we managed to raise $1107!! Our English Hotel Vocabulary 10 week course One of the ways to encourage relationships between members of an organization is through courses or training. The trainings allow the employees of the different departments and sectors of the companies to get to know each other and frequent each other in learning moments. It is also an excellent opportunity to bring employees closer to employers. These two factors improve the work environment, generate stronger relationships between members of the company, and create a lasting feeling of belonging to the company. We believe that employees with more skills. are happier and more proactive. We just started a 10 week English Hotel Vocabulary course thanks to 360 Splendor Del Pacifico Residences that care so much for their employees and their personal growth that are bringing this course so they obtain/or improve English skills to provide better care to their guests and communicate better. Thanks to all our sponsors and volunteers. ADI Brasilito La Marina Foundation Deli Cafe 360 Splendor Del Pacifico Residences Angelina's Restaurant Amigos Tacos & Beer Canatico Pizzeria Bar & Grill Pura Vida French Touch Rancho Costafalo Joe and Jeanne Gillen Laboratorio Clinico Navarro y Alpizar Flamingo Chuck and Kathie Roberts John Moore Jeff Goode Ron Kirchhoff Dione Prior Perry Carlile Andrea and Russel King Chelsey Santry Ruth Meisel Rebeca Kattia Mo Federico Robledo Ej Avey Tammy Walker Kristin Coffey Sincerely Erika & Karen

On September 5th, 2012, a magnitude 7.6 earthquake affected 90 educational centers in Guanacaste, including the Brasilito School. By then over 200 children were left without an appropriate Educational Center to receive lessons. 10 years later the community was still waiting for the intervention of the Ministry of Public Education (MEP). Many parents chose to enroll their children in schools in nearby communities but for others this was not an option, either due to transportation costs or because there was no more spaces available in other educational centers. A mother tells us her story so that we can understand a little better what these families experienced: "It was a very big event and the school was very affected by the earthquake. The children then were in tents receiving classes outdoors. They tore down the old structure of the school and the kindergarten classroom. A group of parents from the community saw the need for the children to at least be in a protected area with walls and a roof and failed a complaint with the Ministry of Health and as a result they were given permission to use the Community Salon, which had not yet been finished. With the help of a private investor they were able to finish the place so that the children would have a space to receive their lessons, provisionally, in theory, while the new school was being built. In 2015 the children were already in the Community Salon and no action was seen on the part of the MEP. The community organized a manifestation by blocking the streets. Nothing happened." She continues telling us her story: "My son was in first grade and after the earthquake he kept asking me when was he going to be back at school? School never came back for him. He graduated from 6th grade without his school. Although it is true, the Community Salon was a better space to receive the classes, it was not an ideal place due to the noise of the vehicles. It is a very open area without walls and there were many groups receiving lessons at the same time. There was a lot of distractions. The children had a hard time concentrating and the teachers were hoarse from screaming. Time passed and in 2020 the pandemic came. This was the worst thing that could happen to us. There were no classes anymore. The school handed out printed guides for students to submit. Many kids didn't even do them. There were a lot of families with no internet access or mobile devices that would allow them to connect to the online classes. All of 2020 was very complicated for my family because I had two children in the educational system and only one cell phone with a prepaid package, which was used up very quickly, sometimes my balance ran out in the middle of a class. I also had to choose which of the two of my children I would let receive the class because both of them had to connect at the same time. My daughter, who needs special support, found it very difficult to receive online classes, especially with math. At least in my house, we had access to internet, but I always thought of the other families that did not have a cell phone and those children without knowing how to read or write and already in higher grades. It was a very big setback. My daughter graduated from primary school not knowing what it was like to have a classroom. She experienced what it was like to be in a formal Educational Center until she entered high school.” This is only the story of one parent, just as her many others had different family scenarios and struggles throughout this whole time that were really complex. The result of this is children with poor academic backgrounds and now they are having difficulty in many matters, specially Math, Reading and English or already quit school. The scenario is better since they reopened the primary school this year but there is a lot of work to do with those kids that are still academically behind. This is the reason why we decided to bring ACCAI to Brasilito. Every Saturday 8 am to 1:30 pm we are bringing Math, Physics and English tutors, mentoring workshops and with the help of volunteers the youth receive pickleball for over one hour. Snacks and lunch are provided every Saturday as well with the help of many volunteers that kindly donate the food to us. We have been running the program for 10 weeks now and we can see how the adolescents are developing bonding with positive peers that is so important to their psychological health development and their social life. We provide an open and frequent communication space with respect, feelings of warmth, caring and closeness, availability of supportive guidance, and responsiveness from all the people involved in this program. As we keep saying, our goal is to keep the youth at risk from Brasilito in the classrooms and not on the streets, have them engaged in our program with dynamic activities and that they finish the school year successfully. We are currently looking for sponsors who would be willing to help us reach this goal and continue with our mission. Sponsors are very important for our community enrichment opportunity to continue. Please consider donating to ACCAI. Thank you in advance for considering joining us in this great mission to help our youth have a better future! We can work together to make a difference. Because we are a community that cares! Sincerely, Karen & Erika

Our Youth Group meets every Saturday in Brasilito at 8 in the morning until 1:30 in the afternoon. What a beautiful day it was this past Saturday, May 13th, our 5th meeting! We have 23 students in our program from 7th grade to 12th grade. As of this past Saturday our Youth have received 9.5 hours of Math, 11 hours of English, 6 hours of pickleball, and 2 hours of Mentoring. Plus their snacks and lunches every time we meet. This week our participants got to work on their work books in English class and they had so much fun with the dynamic class our teachers had prepared for them. On our Math class we had the help from some of Cria's National Honor Society Students tutoring our participants...how neat is that? Youth helping youth! Just beautiful! We have small tutoring groups to offer one to one attention in order to achieve a better understanding of the matter in question. Participants bring their school books and get tutored in what they struggle with. We at Accai believe that being young is a synonym of change, progress and future, if the opportunity is given. Our High School Youth, especially Brasilito's are facing challenges...sometimes too heavy for them...and it's our mission to create or recreate a space for future full development and help them learn that we can turn problems into opportunities and solutions. Empowering them to develop the skills to become the driving force of our families and society. To help achieve this goal we had a visit from Doctor Valeria, from 917 Medical Clinic in Flamingo and she shared about the importance of the choices we make and about health matters such as caring for your mind, body and soul, among other interesting subjects. Thanks to the teamwork made by Accai and 917 Clinic we will be having health workshops for the Youth twice a month. We are thrill to announce the alliance made between Elevate Dance Studio and Accai and now our Youth receive 2 hours of dance classes every Tuesday 6 to 8 in the evening. We have 10 to 13 students attending the dance lessons. And last but not least, Pickleball. Students love pickleball on Saturdays and they receive their class for 75 minutes. Thank you so much to the group of volunteers. The students enjoyed it so much they asked if they could play more so this is how Brasilito's park looks now on Friday afternoon 5 to 6:30! Thanks for your support: 917 Medical Clinic, Elevate Dance Studio, Cria's National Honor Society Students Gunner Kith, Brian Mcdonald, Anina Cubillos and Santiago Cubillos and of course to all of our volunteers. Thanks for providing meals: EJ Avey, Federico Robledo and 917 Medical Clinic.. High-Dosage tutoring is effective but expensive. That is why our sponsors are very important for our community enrichment opportunity to continue. Please consider donating to Accai. We also need volunteers helping in Math and in providing snacks and lunch. Thank you in advance for considering joining us in this great mission to help our Youth have a better future! Please don't hesitate to contact us for more information. Pura Vida! Erika & Karen Directors