FundaVida is breaking the cycle of poverty Facing thousands of at-risk children and families living in Costa Rica.

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We work in four troubled neighborhoods where children are exposed to gang violence, drug abuse, prostitution and neglect. In the midst of their fear, despair and hopelessness, FundaVida is making a difference, building a bridge of hope for these children by:

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  • •nurturing physical and emotional health
  • •expanding educational and economic opportunity, and
  • •building character and strength of spirit.

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In 1996, Chris Dearnley, along with the help of a couple volunteers, began reaching out to a handful of at-risk children, demonstrating unconditional love through practical caring actions. Since then, FundaVida has grown through building trusted and caring relationships, empowering youth to discover and use their talents, and leveraging resources for the greatest possible impact.

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Over 600 children participate in FundaVida’s lifechanging programs run by a dedicated staff of 18 people and many volunteers.

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Nutritional Centers

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FundaVida provides over 150 nutritious hot lunches daily to hungry children. We have served over 200,000 meals to date. With sky-rocketing food costs, this program is a huge hlp for struggling families. Periodic seminars help mothers and children learn about the importance of health issues such as dental hygiene, cleanliness and nutrition.

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Interactive Computer Centers FundaVida Computer

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Centers offer strategically designed programs created by MIT, which empower children to learn through the use of robotic technology. The children apply their analytical skills to the neighborhoods where they live, developing creative solution to problems such as gang violence, severe pollution, and neighborhood safety. The children not only step across the digital divide, but gain selfesteem, a joy of learning and vision for their future. Over 225 children attend classes each week. To date we have provided over 100,000 hours of computer instruction.

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Sports Programs

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FundaVida sponsors six soccer teams that practice and play competitively each week. Organized sports provide a healthy alternative for both boys and girls who otherwise would end up on the streets. The sports program builds confi dence, teaches teamwork, and instills values.

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Club Pura Vida

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Youth and children gather to play and interact on lessons that teach better life choices, such as how to handle anger and the importance of patience and forgiveness. Mothers participate in their own groups where they fi nd a supportive community, learn handicrafts and discuss ways to better care for their children.

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Counseling Program

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FundaVida provides professional counseling for children and families who are in especially challenging situations. Family visits provide the necessary background information and enable counseling in partnership with the family unit.

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Teens at Work

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Older teens participate in internships established with local companies. FundaVida oversees the program providing training on employer relations, customer service and ethics, giving the teens the best possible opportunity to excel in a work environment. Local companies look to hire teens who have come through the FundaVida program. By breaking the cycle of poverty, by building bridges of hope, FundaVida is making a lasting difference. By transforming the lives of children, we’re transforming the generations that follow.

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