Discover Greentalist Costa Rica, a nonprofit empowering young changemakers. Our programs help you tackle global challenges while developing leadership skills and making an impact.
Greentalist Costa Rica began through the Youth for a Green World project. Initially, we were part of Raleigh Costa Rica’s nonprofit organization. Then, when Raleigh International Trust closed in May 2022, we carried forward its legacy.
As a result, we transformed into an independent youth-led nonprofit. Today, we continue empowering young people to create positive change. Moreover, we help communities worldwide build sustainable futures.
Initially, Operation Drake combined scientific exploration with community service. King Charles III and Colonel John Blashford-Snell launched this groundbreaking initiative. Young people from around the world joined aboard the brigantine Eye of the Wind. Consequently, they proved that youth can genuinely make a difference.
Subsequently, Operation Drake evolved into Operation Raleigh, a more ambitious initiative. Thousands of young people—primarily from the UK—volunteered on global development projects. Furthermore, nearly 4,000 young volunteers participated in its formative years. Therefore, this marked the start of international youth service.
In 1992, Operation Raleigh evolved into the Raleigh International Trust (RIT). This UK-based charity collaborated with youth worldwide on major projects. Additionally, work focused on climate action, water, sanitation, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement.
Then, Raleigh established a presence in Costa Rica through local partnerships. We formed Asociación Raleigh Desarrollo Sostenible with community leaders. As a result, local youth experienced the Raleigh mission firsthand. Moreover, they made meaningful contributions to sustainable development.
Moreover, we expanded our outreach to Nicaragua through grassroots collaborations. We worked with rural cooperatives and local organizations. Consequently, local volunteers became central to our programs. Therefore, we empowered community-driven resilience initiatives.
Together with RIT, we faced global challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic. In May 2022, Raleigh International Trust ceased operations due to financial constraints. However, Raleigh Costa Rica courageously continued the mission. Consequently, we upheld RIT’s essence and launched new expeditions.
Finally, with pride in our history and vision for the future, Greentalist emerged. Our new name reflects our renewed purpose and values. Furthermore, it represents the global movement we are building together.
Greentalist means more than a name change. Indeed, it marks a new chapter driven by belief. We know that collaborative efforts of young people create meaningful change worldwide.
Learn from Those Who Make It Happen
At Greentalist Costa Rica, our team members are educators and guides. Founded over 40 years ago in the UK, we’re now a local youth-led nonprofit. For over 25 years, we’ve inspired youth globally toward sustainability action.
Moreover, our team actively engages in local environmental projects. In addition, they promote eco-friendly lifestyles and strengthen community resilience. Therefore, we combine environmental education with leadership development. As a result, participants are fully empowered to tackle urgent challenges.
We are thankful to everyone who shares their time with Greentalist Costa Rica. Consequently, together, we address urgent challenges and create lasting impact.
Initially, we were the Raleigh International Trust (RIT) for 20 years. However, after it closed, we evolved into Greentalist Costa Rica independently. Moreover, we remain proud of our legacy and continue the spirit.
We’re still part of the Raleigh International Trust Movement. Since 2023, Impact Travel Group operates the Raleigh Expedition separately. Meanwhile, we focus on our independent youth-led mission through Greentalist Costa Rica.
Originally, we were Raleigh Costa Rica, one of the most active countries. After RIT closed in 2022, we chose to evolve independently. We became Greentalist Costa Rica, a fully independent youth-led nonprofit.
While no longer managed from the UK, we stay connected to Raleigh’s spirit. Furthermore, since 2023, our volunteers continue participating in the Raleigh International Expedition. Therefore, we maintain close collaboration with the global network.
Indeed, we maintain the best features of the Raleigh Expedition model. Additionally, we provide enhanced training on environmental issues and climate action. Furthermore, participants are supported through the Global Greentalist Alumni Movement.
Learn more about Greentalist Costa Rica here:
Yes. Indeed, Greentalist Costa Rica is fully registered in Costa Rica officially. We have over 25 years of experience in community and environmental projects. Moreover, we’re registered under charity number 3-002-680576.
We work with key partners, including the National Parks System. Additionally, we collaborate with Microsoft Non-Profit and CAF of America. Therefore, you can trust our legitimacy and commitment.
Absolutely. Moreover, we follow international health and safety protocols rigorously. We have decades of experience hosting volunteers from Europe, the UK, Canada, and the U.S.
In addition, our standards are based on Raleigh International best practices. We’ve adapted them to today’s global challenges. Therefore, about Greentalist Costa Rica, you can be confident in our quality.
