Situation:

Young adults aged 18-25 often have limited opportunities to gain practical life skills or experience different cultures firsthand.

Complication:

Without these experiences, they may face limited perspectives, career options, and self-sufficiency skills as they enter adulthood.

Question:

How can we create meaningful opportunities for young adults to gain both practical skills and cultural awareness that will serve them throughout their lives?

Answer:

The Culture Shock Program is our flagship initiative based in Seattle, WA that provides youth with comprehensive training in sustainable living skills, cultural awareness, and second language acquisition, followed by opportunities for international travel and service. Participants learn through hands-on experience and then apply their knowledge by helping non-profits with similar missions.

Program Components:

• Hands-on training in sustainable agriculture, soil restoration, and food production
• Second language acquisition in small, personalized class settings
• Cultural awareness and exchange experiences
• Travel opportunities to apply skills in real-world settings
• “Earn While You Learn” stipends for program participants
• Career pathways and continued engagement after program completion

Situation:

The community of Paso de Guayabo in Puerto Vallarta, MX has rich potential for sustainable agriculture, but faces challenges in food security and educational opportunities for local youth.

Complication:

Environmental degradation, lack of agricultural knowledge, and limited resources have created barriers to self-sufficiency and sustainable development in the area.

Question:

How can we transform abandoned land into a thriving educational center that teaches sustainable practices while providing meaningful opportunities for local youth and international students?

Answer:

Proyecto Indigo Azul is our demonstration Food Forest and learning center on 1.5 acres in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Currently in its third season of development, the project has transformed previously degraded land into a thriving ecosystem with over 200 varieties of plants, trees, and herbs. The center provides free education to local children and acts as a hands-on learning lab for Culture Shock program participants.

Project Components:

• Demonstration Food Forest using syntropic agriculture methods
• Outdoor and indoor learning spaces
• Free programs for local youth
• Sustainable water, energy, and shelter systems
• Cultural exchange between local and international participants
• Long-term plan for 85% food self-sufficiency by 2030