Supporting Ngöbe Communities

Hello all- As COVID-19 inflicts uncertainty and instability in various places around the world, I believe it important to think beyond ourselves and recognize the magnitude of this time & the ways in which it disproportionately affects certain regions of the globe.  In 2019, I studied abroad in Bocas del Toro, Panama with School for Field Studies and, while there, I conducted research on Indigenous tourism within various Ngöbe communities. The stories and conversations shared by Ngöbe entrepreneurs are some of my favorite memories and greatest learning experiences from my time abroad. Right now, as COVID-19 severely restricts travel, Bocas del Toro suffers from the lack of tourists and Give & Surf is currently working to serve communities needing to make ends meet. While in Panama, Alejandro Jonah, Out Reach Director for Give & Surf, spoke in one of my classes and the organization's mission and goals immediately struck me. Give & Surf pursues community development by prioritizing community involvement and empowering community members with access to education, resources,  leaderships roles, etc. Your donation will go towards supplying Ngöbe communities with food, basic resources, and educational programming during this time. I greatly appreciate your consideration- Love & prayers, Rita.