Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Five years ago, driven by a desire to make a difference during uncertain times, Francie (Frankie) Victoria Bañuelos and her husband Jimmy Plouff found their purpose in Vallarta Cares. What began as a personal mission to contribute to their community has blossomed into a powerful movement, serving thousands and transforming lives with the help of dedicated volunteers, generous donors, and supportive business partners.
Since its inception, Vallarta Cares has achieved remarkable things, underscoring its profound impact on the region. The organization has served over 590,000 meals at its food bank, ensuring that vital nourishment reaches those who need it most. They’ve provided free dental and medical care to nearly 400 individuals, addressing critical health needs within the community.
Through empowering educational programs, over 160 students and women have gained valuable skills and opportunities. Additionally, Vallarta Cares has delivered an impressive 138,000 food packages to families experiencing hardship, and has consistently offered crucial disaster relief to communities affected by hurricanes, fires, and floods.
A Growing Need for Shared Leadership
While the achievements of Vallarta Cares are undeniable, the organization is now at a pivotal point, seeking to expand its leadership and ensure its continued success. Frankie and Jimmy, along with a small, devoted team, currently manage the vast majority of daily operations. They recognize that this model, while effective so far, is not sustainable in the long term.
“Our volunteers are truly the heartbeat of Vallarta Cares,” says Frankie. “Their incredible energy, compassion, and hands-on assistance – from cooking and serving to teaching and organizing – are invaluable. But the truth is, we need to build a stronger foundation. We worry about what might happen if health or family issues prevent us from overseeing every detail.”
An Invitation to Lead and Make a Lasting Impact
Today, Vallarta Cares isn’t just asking for financial contributions; it’s extending a compelling invitation for individuals, both locally and remotely, to step into leadership roles. The people of Puerto Vallarta and its surrounding neighborhoods rely on the vital services provided by Vallarta Cares, and the unique spirit of the community thrives on the generosity of those who live here.
Vallarta Cares is looking for individuals who can dedicate ten or more hours per month and are ready to take on personal accountability for various aspects of the organization. This will allow the organization to build a lasting legacy that doesn’t solely depend on a handful of individuals.
If you’re seeking a meaningful way to contribute and possess expertise in the following areas, or if you’re eager to find and lead others in these capacities, you are encouraged to reach out:
- Media & Outreach: Represent Vallarta Cares in interviews, media engagements, and community outreach efforts.
- Spanish-speaking Workshop Leaders: Local individuals (at least part-time) who can lead or organize free workshops for local children.
- Food Procurement: Connect with local restaurants, hotels, supermarkets, and other businesses to secure groceries and supplies, enabling the continued up-cycling of items for the food bank.
- Fundraising & Donor Relations: Individuals skilled in grant writing, donor relations, or philanthropic outreach.
- Digital Media: Help maximize a $10,000 US Google grant and develop and execute a results-driven digital marketing strategy.
In a world where so much can feel out of balance, giving back offers a powerful way to reclaim a sense of control and purpose. If you’ve ever thought, “I wish I could help, but I’m not sure how,” this is an exceptional opportunity. Taking a leadership role in Vallarta Cares can bring incredible personal fulfillment.
Your professional skills, your connections, and your time are precisely what Vallarta Cares needs right now to continue its vital work. To learn more and get involved, please contact Frankie at frankie(at)vallartacares.com. Whether you personally have the expertise or can lead others to execute on these crucial initiatives, your contribution will make a significant difference.
To learn more, volunteer, or donate, please visit vallartacares.org, and be sure to like/follow them on Facebook to stay up to date on what they are doing.
The Vallarta Cares is 100% volunteer based, but all of their work would be impossible without the generosity of donors and supporters. If you would like to help the families of Puerto Vallarta get through trying times, please visit vallartacares.org for donation information. If you would like to receive a U.S. tax receipt for your donation, please visit casajojofoundation.org.