A common feature of all the projects funded by our foundation is that they have a limited time horizon. The community population that has a stake in a project becomes involved right from the planning phase and it is required to take charge of the project once it has been initiated.
Pro Vita Andina’s development aid is mainly concentrated on projects within Ecuador. Designated localities comprise Pomasqui, Tocachi, Guaraqui, Cruz del Arenal in the Andean Region, Pile on the Pacific Coast and Sarayaku in the south eastern Amazonia (Province of Pastaza).
Our work in Ecuador began in 1996 with the launch of a project in Pomasqui. In the northeastern suburb of Quito, it included reforestation efforts and a scholarship program with the aim of providing for a better future for the pupils. The communities of Tocachi, Tabacundo and Guaraqui may be reached by bus from Quito in a 2 hours ride in northern direction and are all located at approximately 2900 m above sea level. Situated at the foot of the Chimborazo volcano, getting to Cruz del Arenal (4250 m AMSL) takes 5 hours by bus to the south from Quito. Pile is located 1 hour south of port city Manta on the pacific coastline and Sarayaku and San Martin lie within the Ecuadorian and Peruvian Amazonia respectively. At all these very different places Pro Vita is committed to support the establishment of new sources of income, a more effective and thorough education as well as support efforts for environmental protection.