To our lovely GLA Animal Rescue Project Alumni,
We still can’t believe how much time has past since our trip in Costa Rica! It just seems like yesterday we all met at the airport on our very first day and played what seems like hundred of icebreakers to get to know one another. As you read this letter, perhaps you are back in school, on another adventure, or working on the next steps in your life but we want you all to know we here in Costa Rica are still reflecting on all the wonderful memories we made together. It is truly incredible what an impact you all made!
We are so proud of the hardworking young adults that you are and the bright future that you have at your fingertips. You each have such diverse and valuable attributes that allowed you to change the lives of the dogs at the shelter, Antonio’s family, the animals at the VIDA clinics, and the community as a whole. As our last group this summer, we look back fondly on all the memories we made and all your efforts here in Costa Rica. We are very excited to let you guys know that in December, a handful of GLA alumni from other animal rescue programs will be returning to Antonio’s shelter to adopt: Whippet, Camila, Corre Caminos, Caca (the four dogs in front), and Harry (the dog with the burned half of his face). Your names will forever be written on the walls as a memory of the hard work, love and dedication you ALL contributed to this cause. And thanks to your help, the dogs are starting to go to caring homes where they will receive all the love in the world. We hope that the knowledge that you have gained on this trip will serve you in the future communities you are a part of! We all met people from different backgrounds than our own and it is important to remember to give back when possible. I would like to commend you for your tolerance, perseverance, and strength. At times, we all faced difficult challenges but they were handled with grace and determination. You did it!
We thank you ALL for the fun memories we have made together! Our group was filled with all kinds of students from different backgrounds and places, with varying personalities and interests. No two were alike; and that is what made it so special! We experienced Costa Rican culture by learning to salsa, eating rice and beans at every meal, working on our bargaining skills at the markets, hiking through forests and by waterfalls, visiting Ruins and Basilicas, and living with our wonderful staff at the hotels. We frolicked on horses, visited a bird zoo, learned the coffee making process, went white water rafting, flew through the trees zip-lining, became pro surfers and paddle boarders, and you all assisted in spay and neuter surgeries! This trip has truly been one for the books and you ALL have accomplished so much. We are SO proud of you and will always remember this trip. Thank you all again for helping to make so many memories in this amazing place!
Some special moments from our trip:
-Working on the animal shelter by paint chipping, painting, walking and loving the dogs.
-Yelling “Pura Vida” as we white water rafted down the San Carlos river!
-Sipping on organic coffee at the coffee farm tour.
-Relaxing in the hot springs while overlooking the beautiful Orosi Valley (and munching on some very yummy yuca and plantain chips!)
-Visiting ZooAve and seeing all of the amazing birds, a Danta, monkeys, sloths, and so much more!
-Visiting local school children and teaching them about animal well being and playing games with them.
-And how could we ever forget Karaoke night?!
We have accomplished so much! Never forget how special you all are and how much of an impact you have made. We hope you never forget your Summer 2018 in Costa Rica!
Muchas Gracias,
Your staff
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