Puerto Vallarta, Mexico — As the new season approaches, the International Friendship Club (IFC) of Puerto Vallarta is getting ready to reunite with its members and friends, with a host of charitable activities and social events on the horizon.
The organization, known for its dedication to community service, has over 100 members who generously volunteer their time to support local charities and fund critical medical services, including cleft palate surgeries for children and young adults.
A Legacy of Hope
For four decades, the IFC has been a cornerstone of support for cleft palate patients in the region, coordinating and sponsoring clinics that bring life-changing surgical care to those in need. In August, the organization hosted its second Cleft Palate Clinic of the year, providing consultations for 45 patients, some as young as 20 days old. The medical team, in close collaboration with the community, performed numerous surgeries at Hospital CMQ, a facility generously provided by the Villanueva family for many years.
The success of the clinic was a testament to the community’s spirit of kindness. Local businesses played a crucial role in supporting the medical team and patient families. Bonito Kitchen & Bar provided a much-appreciated dinner for the doctors after a long day of consultations, while Whiskey Kitchen and Pastelería Pavlova contributed delicious meals and desserts that delighted the team. The families of the patients also received support, with Pizza Papa Don donating 24 pizzas to help alleviate stress during the difficult time.
These community contributions helped create an atmosphere of care and encouragement. “It takes dedicated volunteers to make it a success,” said IFC President Peggy Nelson. “We love what we do for the kids and the families.”
In addition to the August clinics, the IFC’s signature Home Tours program was awarded the prestigious TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Award this summer, placing it among the top 10% of tours worldwide. Proceeds from the tours directly fund the cleft palate surgeries, reinforcing the connection between cultural enrichment and social impact. The tours will begin again on November 18, offering visitors the chance to explore remarkable Vallarta homes while supporting a meaningful cause.
Looking ahead, the IFC is launching a full slate of activities for the 2025–2026 season. Programming begins with Spanish classes starting October 20, followed by the Book Club on November 12, and a festive Opening Reception Posada on December 13. Highlights of the new year include cooking classes, yoga, dance, meditation, lecture series, fashion shows, charity festivals, and benefit concerts – all designed to bring residents and visitors together in support of community projects.
From October through March, the IFC calendar is filled with opportunities for learning, giving back, and building friendships. For newcomers to Puerto Vallarta or those eager to contribute, the IFC offers a welcoming space to connect and make a difference.
For more information or to get involved, visit the IFC Clubhouse or send an email to ifcvallarta(at)gmail.com.
Open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm starting October 1st, the International Friendship Club is a registered charitable organization in Mexico listed as Club Internacional de la Amistad de Puerto Vallarta A.C. It is located at the northeast corner of the Rio Cuale Bridge above the HSBC Bank, Colonia El Centro, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico, 48300. Phone: 322-222-5466. Facebook: IFC Puerto Vallarta. Email: ifcvallarta(at)gmail.com
