Rancho Feliz

We believe that philanthropy is most effective when each party gives to the other and when both parties are actively involved in the exchange - givers become receivers and receivers become givers. This operating philosophy is called, "reciprocal giving". Through selfless service it is Rancho Feliz's goal to work and alleviate both sides of the poverty equation - from the material poverty of Mexico to the purpose poverty often found here in the United States.

Rancho Feliz offers housing and educational opportunities to those living in Mexico. It has been our experience that if the Mexican people are provided opportunities to live with dignity in their own country, they don't want to immigrate illegally into the United States. And with our various scholarship and learning programs, we now provide educational opportunities to qualifying barrio children from 40 days old up through college. This is how we believe you change the world.
Equally as important, Rancho Feliz provides on-border volunteer opportunities to those of us living in the United States. Under this program 1,000 volunteers a year - mostly young adults, travel to the border and help the less fortunate. At Rancho Feliz we call this "enlightened self-interest" and it means improving the quality of your own life by serving those not born into the same circumstances. And it works. To date, over 20,000 Rancho Feliz volunteers have traveled to Mexico and fed their souls by serving others.
This two pronged focus fosters a symbiotic relationship where givers become receivers and receivers become givers. At Rancho Feliz we provide an arena where both sides benefit equally from the same service transaction.

Testimonials

"It reminds me of what is important in life and what is not. I ask myself, after I leave, what do I really need? It is in giving that you truly receive. This is truly service to humanity."
Bill Marcotte, Trip Leader

"I have a lot to think about on my return home. I am learning to love and serve in a deeper way. I learned not to find love for myself but that I will be fully satisfied in giving my love to others. Then I will find love. When can I come back?"
Kenny Butler, Student

"Thank you for the learning opportunity of a life time! There is no better chance to learn compassion, love and interconnectedness of the world than you have provided to our young people. Thank you for changing the outlook of tomorrow's leaders."
Doylene LaForge, Trip Leader