Founded in 2002 — 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.
More than 1,800 children currently served
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
Love
Love as the fundamental driver of our work. Every action is born from genuine commitment to our children.
Education
We believe education is the most powerful tool to transform realities and build futures.
Community
We work hand in hand with families and the community to generate a true and lasting impact.
Creativity
Art and culture are vehicles of expression, healing, and empowerment for our youth.
Transparency
We manage resources responsibly, being accountable to our partners and benefactors.
Inclusion
We open our doors to everyone without distinction, ensuring equal opportunities for every child and young person.
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.