In a country where eight Indigenous peoples coexist, the Asociación de Voluntarios Costa Rica Indígena has become a beacon of support, respect, and solidarity. Their work shows that true help is not imposed—it grows from listening, working together, and a genuine commitment to the communities
The Indigenous peoples of Costa Rica, together with external support, established a bridge through the Asociación de Voluntarios Costa Rica Indígena (“Costa Rica Volunteers Association”, in English). Founded in 2017 by a multidisciplinary group with experience in volunteering, the initiative connects collective dreams with resources that make sustainable initiatives possible. These initiatives aim to strengthen culture, improve community well-being and respond to the real needs of the territories—always guided by an unshakable respect for each people’s identity.
In Costa Rica, the Bribri, Cabécar, Ngäbe, Teribe (Térraba), Brunka (Boruca), Huetar, Maleku, and Chorotega peoples live across 24 Indigenous territories. Every initiative that reaches the Association is reviewed against criteria of cultural identity, human rights, and long-term viability. In this way, projects in education, health, environment, nutrition, and the economy move forward with an approach that honors their traditions and ancestral knowledge while creating lasting impact.
The NGO supports each initiative from the very beginning. Volunteers work in the field alongside communities to define the next steps, while the executive team seeks partnerships with public institutions, companies, and private actors to raise funds and ensure the development of the projects.
The impact of this collaborative model can be seen in stories like Jikira, the cultural tourism project led by Antonio Palacios in the Indigenous Territory of La Casona, in the South Pacific. Through workshops, festivals, guided tours and educational activities, the community has created a space for intercultural exchange where young people and adults share Ngäbe knowledge. “Community participation has been key in this process. The technical and logistical support of Costa Rica Indígena has been essential for Jikira to grow strong, always guided by our own worldview”, says Palacios.
The organization has also made a difference by rejecting any form of cultural appropriation, protecting names, symbols, and traditions, and ensuring that it is always the communities themselves who tell their own story.
To date, Costa Rica Indígena has recruited more than 750 volunteers from different professions, reached 2,764 people with health campaigns in remote communities, delivered school supplies to more than 700 children, and supported programs for over 100 people focused on strengthening the Ngäbe language and culture.
Promoting the autonomy of Indigenous peoples
“Costa Rica Indígena exists because we believe that support must come from within the community itself. We don’t seek to impose, but rather to support projects that respect cultural identity and respond to the real needs of the people”, says Alejandra Rojas, president of the NGO.
This commitment is sustained thanks to a team of volunteers who, without receiving a salary, contribute their time, energy, and professional knowledge to ensure that every resource goes directly to the communities. “Our strength lies in genuine commitment”, Rojas emphasizes.
Looking toward the future, the NGO seeks to strengthen alliances with companies, secure consistent donations, and continue expanding projects that not only address immediate needs but also educate and empower new generations around Indigenous cultural heritage.
If you would like to become a volunteer, you can complete the following form.
How to help?
Costa Rica Indígena does not receive consistent donations, so they organize fundraising activities. However, they believe that change is possible thanks to the solidarity and commitment of individuals and companies.
For more information, you can visit their website: https://costaricaindigena.org/, follow them on Instagram and Facebook, or write to: infocrindigena@gmail.com
