At Anima Experience we believe in protecting the natural beauty and wildlife that make Playa Grande and surroundings so special. As part of our commitment to the environment, we support local NGOs and community organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and forest and wildlife protection.
If you'd like to get involved, there are simple ways to contribute—whether by donating, volunteering, or just learning more during your stay. Every bit helps and creates a lasting, positive impact on the area.
Ask us how you can support local efforts during your visit or check out their websites—and become part of our growing conservation-minded community.
Environmental Stewardship and Community Engagement
The Clean Wave is dedicated to environmental conservation through community involvement and education. Their initiatives include:
- Beach Cleanups: Organizing regular events to remove waste and protect marine life.
- Underwater Cleanups: Organizing monthly diving events to remove waste underwater..
- Sustainable Practices: Promoting eco-friendly habits among locals and visitors.
- Wildlife Protection: Partnering with organizations like SalveMonos to create safe passages for wildlife and reforestation campaigns.
Their "Resilient Communities" project aims to enhance wildlife protection in areas like Playa Grande and Playa Tamarindo.
Protecting Howler Monkeys and Wildlife
SalveMonos is a non-profit organization focused on safeguarding Costa Rica's wildlife, particularly the endangered howler monkey population. Their efforts include:
- Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation: Responding to incidents involving injured or displaced animals.
- Habitat Preservation: Working to protect and restore natural habitats.
- Community Education: Raising awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation.
In 2023, SalveMonos, in collaboration with The Clean Wave Foundation, initiated the construction of 20 wildlife crossings in Playa Grande to protect animals from hazards like electrocution and vehicle collisions.
Empowering Local Youth and Families
CEPIA is a nationally accredited non-profit organization that promotes cultural, educational, and labor opportunities for underprivileged children, teenagers, and their families in the coastal communities of Guanacaste. Their programs include:
- After-School Programs: Providing educational support and activities for children and teenagers.
- Psychological Counseling: Offering mental health services to those in need.
- Community Development: Engaging in initiatives that improve the quality of life for local residents.
We partner with CEPIA to ensure that any unclaimed clothing left at our properties is donated to local individuals and families in need.
Enriching Local Lives for a Better Future
Futuro Brillante is a Costa Rican nonprofit organization focused on empowering residents of the Cabo Velas District (which covers most of Playa Grande and Matapalo area) through education, economic empowerment, and community well-being initiatives. Their work includes:
- Education and Technical Training: Preparing individuals for the local workforce.
- Economic Empowerment: Supporting local entrepreneurs and businesses.
- Community Wellbeing: Collaborating with various organizations to promote sustainable development.
Supporting Stray Dogs and Animal Welfare
Halfway Home is a grassroots, volunteer-based non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and providing care for abused, neglected, and abandoned animals, with a primary focus on stray dogs. Their efforts include:
- Rescue and Rehabilitation: Providing timely rescue, veterinary care, and shelter to animals in need.
- Adoption and Fostering: Facilitating the adoption and fostering of rescued animals.
- Community Outreach: Offering low-cost spay and neuter campaigns and promoting responsible pet ownership.
Their mission is to improve the lives of stray dogs and reduce the overpopulation in and around Tamarindo, Costa Rica.
You’re welcome to arrange a morning or afternoon visit to join the daily walks with over 80 dogs—many looking for a forever home, and others who’ve become long-term residents of the shelter.
Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation
APAMI Wildlife Rescue Center, part of the Monkey Park Foundation, is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing wild animals back into their natural habitats. Their initiatives include:
- Wildlife Rescue: Responding to incidents involving injured or displaced animals.
- Rehabilitation and Release: Providing care and treatment to animals with the goal of returning them to the wild.
- Community Education: Offering educational programs to raise awareness about wildlife conservation.
The center often welcomes volunteers to help with preparing food for the animals in their care.