Founded in2002 — Ciudad Bolivar, Bogota
About Us
An IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit with 24+ years of proven impact — educating, feeding, and empowering children in one of Bogotá's most underserved communities.
Our Mission
To provide comprehensive care to children and youth in vulnerable conditions in Ciudad Bolivar, through education, art, culture, and recreation programs, promoting their personal and social development as agents of change in their community.
1,877+ children and teens · 1,090+ families benefited
Our Vision
To be a leading organization in the social transformation of vulnerable communities in Colombia, recognized for the quality and impact of its educational, artistic, and cultural programs, and for the formation of citizens committed to social change.
24 years and 13 programs transforming communities
Our History
More than two decades of history building dreams and transforming realities in Ciudad Bolívar.
San Jorge Room Expansion
The expansion of the San Jorge Room capacity is projected, creating the San Jorgito Room for children ages 6 to 12.
24 Years of Impact
- The Foundation reports over 24 years of service.
- It has benefited 1,090 families and 1,877 children and adolescents.
- It is consolidated as a benchmark for comprehensive care, education, art, sports, technology, and psychosocial support.
First Orchestra Concert
The first orchestra concert takes place (June 2023), an institutional milestone.
House Competition and Musical Momentum
- The house competition begins (Jaguar, Shark, Caiman, and Condor), inspired by the English model.
- The orchestra dream is strengthened thanks to a donation from a major Colombian NGO.
- The Foundation's anthem is recorded (December 2022, with Claraluna and music teachers).
Racamandaca Mascot
The Foundation adopts its mascot Racamandaca, inspired by "las cigarritas".
Greta Thunberg Building
- Recycled containers are acquired and the Greta Thunberg Building (2 floors) is constructed.
- The San Jorge Room and the gymnastics room operate there.
New Building for Clothing Closet and Music
- A three-story building is constructed for the clothing closet and music rooms.
- The vision of promoting the music program and a future orchestra is strengthened.
New Dining Hall and Infrastructure
A new dining hall is inaugurated, plus two classrooms, bathrooms, and an administrative office.
Senior Citizens and Community Works
- A senior citizens group is incorporated, strengthening intergenerational exchange.
- With the community and Fundación Techo, the main access road to the Foundation is paved.
The Malala Room is Born
The Malala Room is created, a space for teenagers (12+ years) during alternate hours.
Casa Na
- The Foundation purchases Casa Na.
- The bakery and a nursing station are permanently installed there.
- In the previously rented space, a community clothing closet opens (alternative income source).
Technology and Entrepreneurship Training
- The "Cigarrita" computer room is remodeled and equipped (donation from IRT, United Kingdom).
- A bakery space is rented, with baking and pastry courses (mediated by FUMDIR).
Children's Playground
The children's playground is built together with the community.
First Major International Donation
In May 2003, the first major international donation arrives (anonymous benefactor), a support that continues over time.
First Support and Social Expansion
- Vaccination drives and health brigades are carried out.
- For one year, Médecins Sans Frontières provides primary care.
- Dental services are offered with volunteers.
- The World Food Programme supports with food and supplements in the early years.
Cigarra Foundation is Born
- Dr. Carolyn Acosta Allen founds the Cigarra Foundation in response to the displacement crisis in Colombia.
- An urgent need is identified in Puertas del Paraíso (Ciudad Bolívar): a safe place for children while their parents work.
- With community support and Servivienda, construction begins in May; by August it was finished and in September it opens its doors.
- Begins serving approximately 120 children (ages 3 months to 9 years).
- Knitting courses for mothers are also launched.
- The Foundation secures basic services (water, electricity, sewage) and, together with the community, builds two access staircases.
Our Values
Human quality
It goes beyond professional skills: empathy, respect, and authenticity in daily interactions. Every child is heard, accompanied, and valued. We foster open communication, emotional care, and integrity, building trust and an environment where children feel safe and worthy.
Collaborative work
Together we achieve more than alone: cooperation, mutual support, solidarity, and shared responsibility. Everyone contributes their talents and receives backing—encouraging creative solutions, respect for diversity, and trust, and modeling for children how community is built.
Positive, welcoming environment
The foundation for full development: safety, respect, and warmth, where everyone feels part of a community that values them. An optimistic outlook, caring relationships, and pleasant spaces so children and staff can learn, express themselves, and grow with confidence.
Peaceful conflict resolution
We see conflict as a chance to learn. We promote dialogue, active listening, empathy, and constructive solutions, teaching children to handle differences with respect and self-control, without violence—for healthy coexistence and trust among children and staff.
Commitment to setting a good example
Children learn more from what they see than what they hear. We commit to being a positive model with integrity, coherence, and responsibility—respect, empathy, resilience, and honesty—building trust with families and the community and reinforcing our mission to raise whole, hopeful human beings.
Meet our team
More than 33 professionals committed to social transformation. Educators, artists, psychologists, and administrators who make our 13 programs possible.
See the Full TeamReady to make a difference?
Give a tax-deductible gift, sponsor a child, or volunteer your time — every action helps a child in Bogotá build a better future.