real stories, real impact
Sara & Angel
Finding Direction
Linda's Purpose
At a kindergarten graduation in Panajachel, Guatemala, Sarah met Ángel—and something just clicked. Drawn to him and his family, a simple moment turned into a lasting connection. Today, she sponsors his education, helping him stay in school and support his family. Their relationship continues to grow, one of six meaningful partnerships formed through Alma trips with Fundamaya.
Linda's Purpose
Finding Direction
Linda's Purpose
Linda came to Costa Rica for a sea turtle conservation project—but it didn’t end there. She quickly became part of the community, returning in 2024 to teach at an ESL camp for kids in an at-risk neighborhood. As a retired teacher from Canada, the experience sparked a renewed sense of purpose—while helping the kids discover their own. She’
Linda came to Costa Rica for a sea turtle conservation project—but it didn’t end there. She quickly became part of the community, returning in 2024 to teach at an ESL camp for kids in an at-risk neighborhood. As a retired teacher from Canada, the experience sparked a renewed sense of purpose—while helping the kids discover their own. She’s returning again in 2026, a reflection of how meaningful the connection has been on both sides.
Finding Direction
Finding Direction
Finding Direction
At 19, he came to Costa Rica unsure of what came next. During three months at Casa Alma, he immersed himself in daily life—volunteering, shopping at local markets, and building real connections with people and place. Along the way, he began to express care and connection more openly, discovering a different way of showing up in the world.
At 19, he came to Costa Rica unsure of what came next. During three months at Casa Alma, he immersed himself in daily life—volunteering, shopping at local markets, and building real connections with people and place. Along the way, he began to express care and connection more openly, discovering a different way of showing up in the world. When he returned home, he carried that perspective with him—a clearer sense that he could make a positive impact, and a deeper intention to do it in a way that truly gives back.
Libertad Library
Finding Direction
Finding Direction
In 2023, we met a small, community-led initiative deep in the Peruvian Amazon—just as they were getting started. Built and run entirely by the community, their vision was both simple and inspiring. Over time, our relationship grew. While our visits aren’t centered on volunteering, we’ve found small ways to support, including helping build
In 2023, we met a small, community-led initiative deep in the Peruvian Amazon—just as they were getting started. Built and run entirely by the community, their vision was both simple and inspiring. Over time, our relationship grew. While our visits aren’t centered on volunteering, we’ve found small ways to support, including helping build a local library. More than anything, it’s the connection that stands out—being welcomed in, becoming part of the rhythm of daily life, and giving our travelers the rare experience of truly feeling like part of the community.