Owner & Program Director

Helaine lives in New Hampshire, but her second home is Costa Rica where she lived for a total of 9 years. She spent 3 years in Puerto Jimenez, working with U.S. High School student groups. She is presently a High School Spanish teacher. She leads yearly group trips to the Osa Peninsula. She has many connections and friends in the community that make this program possible.

Internship Coordinator & Owner of Hospedaje el Ceibo & Host Mother Extraordinaire

El Ceibo is a family-run lodge in the Osa Peninsula. She grew up in this region. She has a large family in and around Jimenez. Her husband, Luis, is also from Jimenez. These invaluable connections make this program possible. Her children, Sagri and Konsi are young adults who live at El Ceibo and love to welcome international guests into their home and lives.