Community Service in San Jose, Costa Rica

There are a number of ways visitors and expats alike can give back while they are in Costa Rica. Below are some of the organizations I trust and support. 

The Women's Club of Costa Rica: This organization just celebrated its 70th anniversary. Their motto is 'Friendship through Service', and they mean it. The WCCR focuses on raising funds to build school libraries around Costa Rica, and offer scholarships for highschool students to cover expenses in college. Not only does this group play a large role in service, it is also comprised of women from all over the world who have been leaders in their industries, or who are now actively growing new businesses. A great place to find female mentorship and partnership. 

Gracias Costa Rica: Gracias Costa Rica is in the middle of growing and expanding services, but it is a great resource if you are unsure of where to take old clothing, leave behind travel goods, or specify donations to a non-profit without having to go through the donation process in Spanish. Their primary goal is to get your donations where you want them. Check in as this organization grows. Here is what is immediately needed.

Blood Donations: As in many other countries, there is usually a shortage of blood donations available in Costa Rica. Those that are eligible to donate, or thinking of giving for the first time have many options in the metro area. The main blood bank of La Caja is located in Zapote at the southern corner of the church. Donors can also go to any hospital to make a donation, and in outer lying areas one can usually walk into a red cross without an appointment to give.