“Comunidad Connect: Making a difference in San Juan del Sur”

 

(Photos courtesy of Comunidad Connect)

  Comunidad Connect supports Nicaraguan communities by matching social, economic and environmental opportunities with local and global resources. They are working to help build communities that are unified through civil discourse, collaboration, civic engagement, and a focus on environmental, social, and economic sustainability.  

   Pangea Proxima was connected to Comunidad Connect through Casa de Tierra, whose owner, Austin Drill, is a member of the board.  Trevor Stine (Pangea Proxima’s lead consultant) was invited to dinner by the board members in order to get to know the organization’s mission and how it works.

   Comunidad Connect is section 501(c)(3) non-profit organization working with Nicaraguan communities to facilitate sustainable community development. Their programs in environmental education and conservation, sports and youth development, and sustainable tourism aim to address the needs of Nicaraguan communities by engaging Nicaraguans, foreign residents of Nicaragua, and tourists.

Comunidad Connect organizes youth sports leagues: Celebrating after a goal

Educating children about recycling

   Comunidad Connect programs are developed with sustainability as a priority. Their beneficiaries are involved in the decision-making process and contribute efforts, resources, and leadership towards our programs. Because of this, they are more invested in the development of their own communities. Hiring Nicaraguan staff and increasing employment opportunities are two of their main objectives. Comunidad Connect also aims to serve as a positive example of environmental conservation and cultural reciprocity, for Nicaraguans and visitors alike.

Recycling program in action (Jon Thompson on left)

   Comunidad Connect operates as a social enterprise non-profit, drawing income from the sustainable tourism program to offset a portion of administrative expenses associated with the other core programs. Having this source of income allows them to channel a high fraction of donated funds toward their causes and sustain initiatives started by volunteers in the long term.

   Comunidad Connect was co-founded by Jon Thompson and Roman Yavich 5 years ago and continues to grow each year while making a tremendously positive impact in the lives of residents of the San Juan del Sur area. To learn more about Comunidad Conect please visit their website: http://www.comunidadconnect.org