"Improving the health status of underserved populations through sustainable and comprehensive research, service and educational initiatives related to infectious diseases."

The Healthy Living Initiative Specific Interventions

Bellamaría Bird Sanctuary

Ornithologists conducted a detailed study of birds present in the area and were able to catalog the presence of 92 different species. Some of these birds are in ganger of extinction. The community formed the "Santuario de Aves Bellamaría" as a way to protect the environment and as the basis of a sustainable community-based ecotourism project currently being formulated.

Community members received basic training on guiding groups and continue to raise awareness of the importance of protecting the environment.

In addition, the local elementary school initiated a bird watching club. Members of the club conduct weekly activities to learn more about the birds and their role in securing a future for their community.

The Healthy Living initiative organized a training workshop that was attended by 12 women from Bella María community. Besides learning to produce handcrafted jewelery, the women formed the "Grupo Artesanal Los Ceibos". Products handcrafted by the women are being sold in local markets and this is contributing to improve the income of the families.