Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza (RISE) is beginning the new school year with plenty of activity, from helping children return to the classroom to raising funds for a safer way to get them where they need to go.
Home to approximately 28 children, RISE provides a stable and caring environment for young people facing homelessness or difficult circumstances at home. With school back in session since September 1, the shelter’s daily schedule now includes classes, homework, therapy, medical appointments, activities, and other commitments.
For some of the younger children, this school year brought an especially important first: their first day of school. RISE staff prepared personal lunches and wrote encouraging notes for each child. While there were plenty of smiles, a few tears were also expected as the little ones adjusted to their new surroundings.
The end of summer was marked with a pool party hosted by Tracy and Allen, who also provided swim classes throughout the vacation. Swim teachers Javier Vela and Kimberly helped the children build confidence in the water while creating lasting summer memories.
RISE Kids Need a Reliable Ride
With so many weekly appointments and activities, dependable transportation has become an increasingly important need. RISE is raising funds to purchase a nearly new van that will transport children safely to school, medical and dental appointments, therapy, after-school programs, and special outings.
The campaign has already raised $14,500 USD, including a $5,000 matching gift. However, another $20,000 is needed to complete the purchase.
Donations can be made through the RISE campaign at donorbox.org. Those who have already contributed can also help by sharing the campaign with others.
Music Brings Supporters Together
RISE’s monthly Live at Sunset music series continues September 18 with Eva y Mau at Los Palmares Condos in Punta Negra. The evening will include appetizers from Uncle Daddy’s and wine from Hotel Roger Posada.
The event is limited to 32 guests, with a suggested donation of $1,000 MXN per person. All donations benefit RISE.
The remaining 2026 schedule includes Ale and Dabit with Tromba Vetusta on October 16, followed by Luis Villanueva on November 20. The series will resume January 15 with Brenda Gavino. Additional food and wine sponsors will participate throughout the season, while BAKE FACTORY will provide sweet treats at all shows.
Tickets to all events are available through RISE on Donorbox. Donations can also be made in person at Cassandra Shaw Jewelry, Basilio Badillo 276 in Zona Romántica.
RISE has also been selected as the beneficiary of the fifth annual Stars with a Heart charity show, produced by Mary Porter. The event will bring Vallarta performers together at Teatro Vallarta on February 7, 2027, from 4 to 6 pm. More details and ticket information will be announced later.
Volunteers and Monthly Donors Needed
As the school year gets underway, RISE is urgently seeking Spanish-speaking volunteers to help children with homework and reading Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 PM. Volunteers are also needed to work with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers through play, learning activities, and simple English lessons.
Information about volunteering is available through WhatsApp at 322-121-9089.
Monthly donations are another important source of support, helping cover caregiver and staffing costs, meals and diapers, medical care, transportation, and everyday operating expenses.
RISE also currently needs diapers in sizes 3 through 7, children’s shampoo, trash bags, bleach, and other cleaning supplies. Its complete wish list is available at risepv.com.
For RISE, the new school year is about more than getting children back into the classroom. It is about making sure they have the care, transportation, educational support, and everyday necessities they need to keep moving forward.
R.I.S.E. (Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza) is a privately funded, 50-bed children’s shelter in Puerto Vallarta, providing a loving environment for children who are “at risk” at home or have no home. These resilient children range in age from newborn to mid-teens. For 20 years RISE has operated with a combination of a great staff and a team of volunteers that keep RISE running. RISE is 100% funded through private donations and fundraising is a huge part of our ability to provide these children with nutritional meals, education, medical and dental services, activities, clothing & more. Learn more at risepv.com.
