Support the Children of Maras, the Sacred Valley and Beyond!

In the Quecha language the word for collective, abundance-producing relationships is minka. In appreciation for the gift of Andean and Amazonian wisdom of abundant life and well-being, we have created numerous educational programs for the Children of the Andean village of Maras, and others nearby, to help nourish and empower these new generations!

ARI Art Programs

The ARI Art Program at our Center in Maras has been growing exponentially over the years. Designed to give local children a space for creative expression and an arena for developing marketable artistic skills, the program also helps to strengthen their cultural pride and identity, essential ingredients in becoming successful adults in their communities and in the world. These children have a unique view of the world and of life – a view that is invaluable for our changing world – their vision needs your support.

Your donation helps us hire skilled art teachers, buy supplies, and expand our teaching facilities at the Maras Center.

Volunteers are welcome to serve as teachers and support staff. If you love art and children you'll love this opportunity to volunteer in Maras.

ARI English Language Programs

English Language classes are offered at our Maras Center as well. English is recognized as a global language, and proficiency in English is required for the economic and social advancement that will keep the Andean cultures alive and thriving.

Your donation helps us to maintain our teaching spaces, purchase teaching materials, and pay for qualified teachers.

Volunteers are welcome to serve as teachers and support staff. Join us for a rewarding experience!

SETPRO Program for Higher Education

The SETPRO Program provides another level of educational assistance. High school entrance is very competitive in Peru, and not all children are accepted. An alternative to standard high school education is the establishment of certified educational programs that offer comprehensive training in a variety of professional skills. Called SETPRO, Peru's Ministry of Education licenses these programs. ARI is working to hire teachers to develop select SETPRO-certified programs, such as computer skills training, and then offer them to students at our Center in Maras. This level of educational certification enhances the ARI Center's capacity to serve as an educational hub and a dependable source of education for economic growth for the Andean people.

The goal is to turn ARI into an official Peruvian alternative craft school that can issue certificates so students can secure jobs. Once we have our new Headquarters completed with its additional classroom space available, it will be easier for ARI to obtain the certification. In this way, we can teach more useful skills to the youth and adults of the region.

Your donation helps us first, meet the requirements for SETPRO certification, and second, hire the teachers who can deliver these certification programs in Maras.

School Supply Gifting Program

The School Supply Gifting Program is a highlight of the season for ARI and the children of the mountain villages around the Sacred Valley. Each year, ARI volunteers drive to the less advantaged villages to gift clothing, school supplies, and a delicious treats of hot chocolate and traditional bread to their school children. ARI also monitors the success of our gifting program, providing a questionnaire to school leaders asking them to gauge what impacts such gifts may have on students' motivation to attend school and their motivation to learn. Our local coordinator in Cusco, Ita Choque, oversees the purchase of student gifts, school supplies, and clothing for the program. Gifts are donated, or where possible purchased locally, honoring our commitment to support local merchants.

Your donation buys new jackets, supplies, and food for these deserving children. It also supports the hiring of the bus and driver who takes us to the village schools on the gifting day.

Volunteers are encouraged to help with this highly rewarding program. Join us each year as we package and deliver these much-needed gifts to the beautiful children of the Andes.