IL Postcard

Get Involved: The Art of Community Service in San Carlos

Date: 02/22/2007

The beach district of San Carlos is getting some much needed help-help that will benefit area children and enhance the community overall. San Carlos is one of 11 districts in the province of Panama-here you'll find Coronado (one of Panama's most popular beaches) and ritzy beach clubs and hotels like the beautiful Coronado Golf & Beach Resort.

Though the province is one of Panama's wealthiest (mostly because it encompasses the capital, Panama City), there are areas where resources are lacking. Enter Finca la Maya, a new international center for the arts ( see photo, below). Staff and instructors here are providing free English and art classes.

These classes are made possible by supporters, some of whom offer their time, while others have given donations (teaching materials, art supplies, or cash). As of mid-February, the center is accommodating over 100 children in English or art classes.

The 500-square-meter arts center also serves as a venue for meetings, yoga sessions, or other group activities. Finca la Maya invites instructors and leaders to bring their groups here for any type of retreat. The setting is terrific, and it is nice to know that the center gives back to the community.

In an area where schools are hard pressed to provide anything beyond basic English or arts instruction, the staff of Finca la Maya hopes that students will some day benefit from jobs in the area's growing hospitality and real estate industries.

For information on how to make a donation or to schedule a group retreat, e-mail info@fincalamaya.com.

Best Regards,

Brandon Clogston
International Living / Panama

P.S. San Carlos is one of Panama's top destinations-for visitors and new residents alike-but it's hardly a secret. If you would like to hear about the next big thing- before everyone else does-subscribe to Panama Insider. Not another travel magazine, Panama Insider gives you the nitty-gritty about Panama, no holds barred. Learn more here.