Asociación Cepia - Costa Rica

These are the children of Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

Many children and teenagers in our villages have no access to cultural and recreational activities; schools are poorly equipped and have little staff. Computer and English instruction are almost not available although the area is marked by an important economic development (tourism). Lots of children and women live in poverty, are victims of violence, live in difficult family situations. The main problems for youth in Guanacaste are: teenage pregnancy, domestic violence, drug abuse, unemployment, and the lack of counseling, prevention and health promotion.

The organization CEPIA offers these children and teenagers better opportunities through free cultural and educational activities, nutritional and psychological support as well as through collaborations with local schools and many organisations and public institutions. CEPIA implements educational initiatives such as computer classes, English classes and professional trainings. CEPIA spearheaded the area’s first public library. The organization educates youth about rights, substance abuse and violence, while at the same time providing psychological guidance for children who live in unhealthy or abusive environments.  

The programs of CEPIA are aimed at children and teenagers from 3 to 20 years old attending public schools and teenagers not attending school for reasons related to poverty, unhealthy environments and learning disabilities.

Participation in cultural, educational, formative and sports activities leads to greater school outcome, prevents emotional, social and physical problems,  increases social cohesion, stimulates the elaboration of a life project and a greater personal development. In the long run, taking part in the CEPIA programs can provide them greater chances in an increasingly competitive and skills-oriented market. Through collaborations with other organizations, the impact increases.