History
The CAA of today grew out of the efforts of expats’ early desire to make connections and provide support to the local community they were part of. One group of small business owners saw the need to make connections and share information via networking and monthly mixers. At the same time, another group created a program to connect local students with native English speakers as a means of improving their English language skills. Over time as the groups continued their efforts to help the community, they decided there was greater impact in a collaborated effort and the two groups merged. In 2012 they became “La Alianza de Accion Comunitaria” (The Alliance of Community Action), a legal entity in Costa Rica governed by a Board of Directors, a constitution, and bylaws.
Governance
CAA is a registered Costa Rican cultural and social organization. The organization is governed by the Officers and Vocals who are elected by the membership for a two-year term. General Assembly (membership) meetings are mandated by our constitution to be held at least twice per year, in June and December.
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Officers
President Janice Brown Vice President Mary Lou Hofmann Secretary Martin Rojas Treasurer Al Sargent |
Vocals
Scott McAnally Laura Mitchell Kevin Patterson |
Fiscal
Rodrigo Rojas |
Committees
While there may be ad-hoc committees convened for special projects or special events, there are currently two standing committees, Sustainability and Education.
The Sustainability Committee focuses on creating long-term success for the organization through such activities as fundraising to ensure financial support for our programs and alliances; member engagement, retention; and support; and building/maintaining relationships with local organizations and partners.
The Education Committee oversees the program created by CAA in 2013 to help financially needy but academically-motivated students complete high school and change the trajectory of their future. Social worker interns and a retired social work professional assess students’ program eligibility and monitor their progress throughout the year and committed volunteers coordinate program activities, mentor students and raise funds to support the program.
The Sustainability Committee focuses on creating long-term success for the organization through such activities as fundraising to ensure financial support for our programs and alliances; member engagement, retention; and support; and building/maintaining relationships with local organizations and partners.
The Education Committee oversees the program created by CAA in 2013 to help financially needy but academically-motivated students complete high school and change the trajectory of their future. Social worker interns and a retired social work professional assess students’ program eligibility and monitor their progress throughout the year and committed volunteers coordinate program activities, mentor students and raise funds to support the program.