United for the Community: Enhancing Spaces for the Benefit of Children

In a commitment to the education and well-being of the youngest, Fundación Costa Palmas has once again joined forces to revitalize a crucial space in La Ribera's Carmen Moreno Kindergarten. This endeavor aims not only to enhance physical conditions but also to create enjoyable and stimulating environments for the community's children.

Members of Costa Palmas and the Foundation collaborated for a day of work, merging painting, cleaning, and community art efforts. Parents, their two children, and a friend actively participated in the activities, alongside three other local families, including the school's director and her child.

Throughout the day, two primary projects were completed. Firstly, the interior of the classroom was painted with vibrant, child-friendly colors, while general improvements and thorough cleaning took place. Secondly, a mural was brought to life on the exterior wall, designed by the talented local artist, María Echevarría.

María, renowned for her murals in iconic locations like Casena and Mozza in the Costa Palmas Marina, drew inspiration from symbols and themes within the community for her design. The mural not only enhances the beauty of the environment but also embodies the identity and spirit of La Ribera, with themes of environmental awareness and community belonging.

"In this mural, my goal was to capture the spirit of collaboration among the inhabitants of the riverbank to preserve nature and care for the animals with which we coexist in this region so rich in biodiversity," Maria commented. "It portrays easily identifiable characters for children: fishermen, tourists, and ranchers taking care of local animals such as a cow, pelicans, whales, and crabs. These characters interact with the animals harmoniously. I wanted to create a representation that children could approach in a friendly manner, understanding the message of being kind to animals and nature, and, above all, living in harmony with the environment."

This initiative is part of an ongoing effort by Fundación Costa Palmas to beautify and enhance public spaces, done in collaboration with members and volunteers. Previous projects include improvements at La Ribera Elementary School and the mural created at the Agustín Olachea Avilés Telesecondary School.

"We are thrilled with the outcome of this activity and the community's engagement," expressed Ruth Díaz Gurría, Director of Fundación Costa Palmas. "This project marks just the beginning of our involvement in La Ribera schools. It has also helped us identify additional needs, such as furniture, waterproofing, and landscaping, which we plan to address shortly."

Through these efforts, Costa Palmas and Fundación Costa Palmas are not only beautifying spaces but also sowing seeds of inspiration and success for the children of La Ribera.