As we reflect on the past year at Amazon Pueblo, it's incredible to see how far we've come, fueled by the immense dedication and enthusiasm of our volunteers. We have witnessed a record number of volunteers (from the USA, France, Germany, Switzerland, Colombia, Costa Rica, and other countries) stepping forward to lend their hands and hearts to the village of La Libertad, marking the most significant engagement in our 12-year history. Everyone has contributed not just time, but passion and hope for a brighter future.
Repairing the entrance to the kitchen
Arts and crafts are always loved
This past year, our volunteers took part in transformative
projects that will have a lasting impact on the community. Together, we
finished building a healthcare center, replaced rotted wood in our buildings,
and rejuvenated spaces essential to the well-being of our volunteers and
community. The vibrant colors we painted on the guesthouse, kitchen, and
adjoining structures have breathed new life into our gathering places, making
them warm and welcoming for everyone.
Leveling the ground for the new picnic area
One of the highlights was the creation of an outdoor,
covered picnic and gathering area that serves as a hub for connection and
community spirit. And let’s not forget the invaluable tutoring sessions where
our volunteers helped children improve their math and reading skills. The
smiles, laughter, and progress of these young learners are testaments to the
profound impact that education can have on lives.
Lunch in Leticia with three volunteers
The ride to the school of Macedonia
It’s important to note that these remarkable initiatives were funded by the commitment of our volunteers, who not only contributed their time but also financially supported our mission. The organization provided essential resources —including housing, water, tools, and logistical support — for our volunteers, ensuring that every moment spent in La Libertad was meaningful and worthwhile.
Painting the kitchen expansion
Many volunteers have shared how their time here reshaped their understanding of poverty and community. The experience often deepens values and instills a lasting commitment to service. It’s incredibly heartwarming to hear that many wish to return, continuing their connection with Gustavo, their host, and the projects that have touched their hearts.
Math tutoring round two
Arriving on the project's boat in Leticia
At Amazon Pueblo, we believe in the power of community, not
only among our volunteers but also with the local people who join us in our
efforts. Adults and children alike participate in these service activities,
creating an environment of mutual learning and support.
Fixing the floor in our storage sheds
There is always work to do
As we look forward, we remain hopeful and inspired by the journey ahead. We are always seeking more volunteers eager to make a difference, as well as financial support to further enhance education and opportunities for the youth of La Libertad. Whether you can spare a few hours or are ready to dive into an extended commitment, your contribution can help us cultivate change.
The picnic meeting area gets a roof
Cutting boards is always needed and appreciated
The villagers lend a hand for the concrete floor of the meeting area
As we look forward, we remain hopeful and inspired by the journey ahead. We are always seeking more volunteers eager to make a difference, as well as financial support to further enhance education and opportunities for the youth of La Libertad. Whether you can spare a few hours or are ready to dive into an extended commitment, your contribution can help us cultivate change.
Doing paperwork
Installing a whiteboard for the school
Let’s keep the momentum going. Together, we can build a brighter tomorrow for La Libertad. Additionally, this year, we are excited to expand into the Peruvian indigenous community of Vista Alegre!
The village kids are helping to carry our boat to the water
Hello, friends and supporters! We are thrilled to share some fantastic updates from our ongoing mission in La Libertad, Colombia. Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers and the kindness of our supporters, 2025 has been a pivotal year for Amazon Pueblo, and we're excited for what's to come!
Working on the roof of the new outdoor picnic/community area
Solar Power Expansion: A Bright Future
In our efforts to support sustainable tourism and enhance the experience of our volunteers and guests, we have successfully expanded our solar power system. This year, we connected three 550-watt solar panels, dramatically increasing our capacity. Additionally, we made a significant upgrade by changing our system from 12 to 48 volts, allowing us to increase the size of our inverter. This upgrade means we can now supply continuous, 24-hour electricity—an essential feature for our guests and projects!
The newly upgraded solar power system
To boost connectivity, we integrated Starlink into our operations, ensuring that our work, education, and emergency communication stay robust, even in the jungle. We are also proud to share that the community has stepped up and taken responsibility for covering the monthly Starlink bill of about $100. This collaboration is an excellent example of local empowerment and commitment.
Our internet router for the barrio
Completing the Healthcare Center
Another exciting milestone this year was the completion of the healthcare center. We've made great strides in creating a welcoming and functional space. Our dedicated team has tiled the floors, plastered and painted the walls, and installed window screens to ensure comfort for all who visit. This healthcare center will be a vital resource for the community and will reflect our mission to enhance the quality of life in La Libertad.
Finishing the floor of the healthcare center
At last, the healthcare center is painted and finished!
Infrastructure Improvements
With the unwavering support of our volunteers, we've also undertaken repairs and expansions to our project's infrastructure. The repairs included replacing rotted wood in our buildings, expanding the kitchen, and installing a brand-new stove and oven. Plus, we've built a covered outdoor picnic area for guests, volunteers, and the villagers to relax and enjoy meals together. These improvements not only enhance our facilities but also foster the sense of community and connection we value.
Repairing the rot on the storage sheds
Repairing and expanding the kitchen. We now have a dining area!
The floor of the picnic/community area is a concrete slab
A volunteer painting the fence of the picnic area
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate these accomplishments, our work isn't stopping in La Libertad! We're excited to announce that we are expanding our efforts to the city of Leticia and the Peruvian village of Vista Alegre. Stay tuned for future blog posts where we'll dive deeper into these endeavors and share more news from this vibrant jungle region.
La Aljaba, the foundation we are partnering with in Letica
Roberto, our main contact person in the village of Vista Alegre
Thank you for your continued support. Together, we are making a difference, one step at a time!
At Amazon Pueblo, we believe in the power of community and
the transformative impact of collaboration. We are thrilled to share a recent
milestone in our partnership with the community of La Libertad in the Colombian
Amazon. Together, we embarked on an ambitious project that speaks to the heart
of our mission: enhancing livelihoods and fostering sustainable development
through education.
With the support of our organization, we allocated $1,000
towards a project that would bring essential transportation to La Libertad.
This funding was utilized not only to acquire necessary materials, such as
nails, oil, and food, for the hardworking individuals involved but also to
offset the costs of cutting and milling wood. The heart of this endeavor lay in
the strong commitment and resourcefulness of the community, which provided the
lumber from their own land.
The local carpenters, driven by passionate volunteers,
transformed these resources into a remarkable 49-foot boat—an extraordinary
collaboration that stands as a testament to our partnership. This vessel,
capable of carrying over 50 people at a time, is not just a means of
transportation; it represents hope, empowerment, and the spirit of teamwork
between Amazon Pueblo and the people of La Libertad.
For many in the community, this boat will be a lifeline,
providing vital access to the city of Leticia. Whether it’s for purchasing
supplies, accessing fresh food, or, most importantly, seeking life-saving
medical care, the boat will serve the community for at least two years before
it must be retired due to wear from the elements.
This project highlights how local resources, when combined
with external support, can yield sustainable solutions that effectively address
the community's needs. It is a testament to what can be achieved when
organizations and residents come together with a shared vision.
Thank you for being a part of our mission at Amazon Pueblo.
Together, we are creating lasting change and fostering hope in the heart of the
Amazon!
For more updates on our initiatives and ways to support our
mission, please don't hesitate to contact us at info@amazonpueblo.org.
Let’s continue building a brighter future together!
