Project Launch:

The Boys and Girls Scout troop of Portalòn, Costa Rica, is one of the most active, motivated, and productive community groups in the area. One of the group’s primary objectives is to teach and apply camping/wilderness skills. Camping trips are the favorite activity among both the children and adult members. Much of the equipment this group was using, however, was borrowed, limiting the number of participants able to join in the trips. In 2009 with a $500 grant from World Connect’s Kids to Kids Program, the troop bought their own tents and camping gear allowing them the ability to offer more children the opportunity to participate in camping trips. On these trips kids learn about the environment, gain outdoor and survival skills, celebrate being outdoors with their families and friends, and have fun. While the community doesn’t report significant drug problems, they do live close to a community that struggles with drug-related issues. Having a strong Boys and Girls Scout program provides after school and recreation opportunities for children and is one resource that offers them an alternative to unhealthy and unsafe decisions.