I went to a number of foreign countries, and during whenever I went, I would try to go to an orphanage or a home for children. And I was seeing thousands of kids around the world that needed homes -- Sam Brownback It is not the physical pain that endangers orphans the most. It is the mental pain caused by stress from years and years of being neglected, pushed aside, disregarded, unloved, and made to feel undeserving, and in almost all cases, made to feel like a possession rather than an equal human being. Even more it is the lack of unconditional love, the right to be accepted, as a child and to be loved, as a child, no matter what you do is the most wounding. -- Roger Dean Kiser, from Orphan - A true Story of Abandonment, Abuse and Redemption. Part II of Sidney Writes About Doing Good The Roger Kiser quote completely devastated me the first time that I read it. And I'm not ashamed to admit that I cried. It crystallized for me everything I felt growing up...everything that I wanted in this life. I grew up in a broken home...never knew my Father...my mom was a struggling single mom with two kids. She worked full time, and then being a child of the 60's, partied like that was her second full time job. I knew with my son, that I had to be 100% different...that even though my relationship did not work out, he would always know the unconditional love and support that I never had. He is indeed lucky that he has two parents that love and adore him very much. It also explains why I feel so strongly that everyone needs to give back to their community. This whole nonsense of "I Built That" is just that: nonsense. So much of one's success is nothing more than an accident of birth (not that enough people get that). I always want to ask the typical OC preening peacock: What if you were born a slave? Or a Chinese peasant? Or a woman in the Dark Ages? Or in the middle of the Somalian or Congo Civil War? How magnificent would you be then? It is what I try and teach my son especially since he is growing up in the bubble of the OC with no real wants or needs unmet. He got lucky with two loving parents who adore him and who have the financial resources to take care of him. Corazon de Vida Foundation supports a dozens orphanages in Baja California. Per the website: "As some background, Mexico does not have a foster care system to support children in need due to neglect, abuse, or abandonment. There is no welfare system to help families with a single parent that is unable to provide for their children. So, the only way to support families and children in need is through a network of orphanages. At last count, there are approximately 50 orphanages in Baja California, Mexico. Most are located close to the border because most of their support comes from the US." They run several trips a month to the homes where individuals or groups can visit the children (and play and interact) or do needed service. You can also sponsor a child, donate online, host a party or make a difference in a variety of other ways. Now, many of my Yelp friends enjoy Sababa in Long Beach. Corazon is hosting a social soiree for only $10.00 on October 17th. Tickets can be purchased here: http://oct17soiree.eventbrite.com/ There will be a appetizers, drinks, a raffle. And hey, I will be there too :) It is a tremendous organization that does an amazing amount of work for the neglected children of Mexico. (And I promise, we will leave the earnestness and seriousness of these past two reviews and do something a bit funnier on my next write-up!) read more

I have been going to the trips to Tijuana for over 1 year and I can definitely say this organization is awesome! I am a sponsor and I suggest you to go to one of the trips and have the experience that will change your life forever. These kids give you so much love that you will go back home wanting more and more. Don't forget ... "Your actions today will be your lawyer in the future... Be a good person!" read more

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Many who know me call me "the bleeding heart." And ya know what I say? I rather have a bleeding heart, than no heart at all. Corazon de Vida Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps provide orphanages in Baja Mexico with the bare essentials for children's daily living. This includes: food (mainly), hygiene products, cleaning products, diapers, formula, etc. But if anyone has ever had or worked with children, we also know that a necessity for all children is to be loved, played & interacted with and told that they matter. Corazon de Vida takes volunteers every Saturday to the orphanages for a day full of play. A couple of months ago I went on a Corazon de Vida orphanage trip to lend a hand. I had so much fun. I painted faces (I can't paint to save my life, but they were content with me turning them into "gatitos" aka "kitties"... which means I drew whiskers and a nose on them), kicked bottle thingy-mabob with a very quiet little boy, and held children who asked to be held. It was a very powerful experience. As much fun as I had with the children, it also left with me with a heavy reality check about poverty, international relations, child welfare and the heart of a child. When I got home I started telling my bf about the trip and the children and suddenly I started to cry. I cried for the little girl who told me her mother was going to come and get her "any day now," for the kid who didn't want to be touched by anyone, the little boy who gave me the biggest bear hug when he found out I was leaving, for the pain I saw in their eyes and even for the resilience they showed so far as they managed to have fun and play with the volunteers. For $20 dollars/person Corazon de Vida takes a bus load of volunteers across the border to hang out and have lunch with a house full or children. They provide the food (chili dogs and goodies), travel and all other arrangements. All a volunteer needs to do is sign up, bring $20, your passport and the willingness to make a bunch of kids laugh and have fun. For donations here is their tax ID: 501 (c) 3 tax exemption # 33-0707788 Website: www.corazondevida.com Feel free to PM me about my experience as a volunteer or any other details. read more

If you want an organization that you can be a part of that you can actually visit and see these beautiful children's faces, and no penny for penny where your money is going, this is the place. I've been on six Saturday trips down to the orphanages in my heart and soul are filled with so much love. Founder of this organization is from an orphanage in Tijuana Mexico, and 20 years later she has created an organization that supports 700 children. The staff and help her absolutely phenomenal, and if you donate money, or donate your time it will be the best feeling you have ever had. #love read more

It's not every Saturday that I'll voluntarily wake-up at 4am to catch a 4:30 bus headed for Mexico, but CDV made me LOVE my early morning! This group is a great way to aid children and young adults who, for various reasons, aren't living with their families. The orphanages are privately run (which is why i'd urge you to consider making a donation) and CDV helps them pay for everything from electricity to dental care. They also do their best to enroll the kids in school as education is a priority for CDV. I'm looking forward to going again in April! P.S. If you're like me and took Spanish in high-school but can't remember anything other than "leche" and "hola", please don't be discouraged from coming! You'd be surprised at how much communicating can be done with smiling and hand-gestures. In that same vein, it's great to be able to have light conversation. You can download the "Coffee Break Spanish" podcast and learn a bit each day! read more

Visited the facility through San Diego Coastal Rotary club to conduct a small weekend work project, painting one of their facilities. Met with the founder of the organization, who graciously hosted us and opened up her home for dinner to thank us with a fantastic meal and extremely generous hospitality. This organization is the real deal and stretches the funds received to achieve results that are simply amazing. The personal passion exhibited by George Perez and Hilda is infectious and life affirming. There is such a great need in Mexico and around the world for people to do this work and to concern themselves with those who civilization has marginalized. To be able to see first-hand the work that they do with these kids is an experience that should not be missed. Corazon de Vida has touched my life as well as all that went on the trip. If you have ever thought about trying to make a difference in the lives of others, C.d.V. is an excellent opportunity for you to achieve tangible results with exceptional people. There are many chances to be of service, contact them, share your skills, resources, and connections and watch as whatever you are able give is returned to you immeasurably. read more

This non profit supports orphanages in Tijuana and really makes a difference. Their sole focus is to care for these children. The founder herself is a previous orphan with a beautiful warm heart. Knowing Spanish is irrelevant. Check out their website for monthly day-trips. My daughter expressed an interest in mission trips and I thought this would be a nice introduction. We went down on a chartered bus to the Los Angelitos orphanage (one of several homes) and it was a VERY memorable day. You won't regret going and your time really does make a difference. A great experience for individuals, families or youth groups. The trip is safe, structured and organized...you just need a passport and $40. Very rewarding and highly recommended! http://www.corazondevida.org/ read more

What I love about this organization is that you can see first hand what is being done. I had the opportunity while attending CSUF to go on one of the bus trips into Tijuana and directly into an orphanage. I have seen the money put to use and truly believe that these children need help and are being helped as much as possible by Corazon De Vida. On the ride there we were given lots of information and everyone introduced themselves and we even had an icebreaker game. The volunteers are very nice and knowledgeable. On the particular trip I took we went to the Hacienda orphanage. You are instantly greeted by the children and everyone works to unload the goodies we have brought them- basic everyday things that we take for granted all the time. During playtime you get to see how valuable this time is for them and how they seem to cherish every moment of it, especially when they can get one-on-one attention. When you return from such an experience it is so hard to believe that these children are literally a few hours away. I highly recommend taking a trip there. It is safe and easy and totally worth it. I forgot to mention that the children were in need of a playground instead of a dirt lot and I have learned that there is now a playground for them! I can't wait to visit again. read more

Everyone hears about the orphans in Haiti. No one thinks about the orphans right across the California border. Mexico has no child welfare system. The orphanages receive NO money from the government to support the children. For $40 you can be taken to an orphanage in Baja, Mexico. The bus picks you up in either Los Angles, Irvine, or San Diego. The bus is comfortable. The volunteers are great. The whole experience is fun, rewarding, and safe. You will help the children with art projects, throw a ball, give piggy back rides, hugs, or help with lunch. You are at the orphanage for about 4 hours. It will you give you appreciation for your own life. Also, appreciate these wonderful little angels. This WONDERFUL organization helps the orphanages with basic supplies (food, water, utility bills, and education). They support 16 orphanages. read more

Corazon de Vida is the best organization I've been involved with. Helping the orphans of baja in providing the help and support they need. I've been going on their trips and truly eye opening experience. The children has changed my life forever and will continue to support as much as I can. Truly an amazing foundation. read more

I have gone on what is about to be five bus trips to volunteer at various orphanages in Tijuana, and it's always a wonderful, rewarding experiences. I was a little skeptical for various reasons my first time about paying to volunteer, about visiting Tijuana considering all the border violence, but Corazon de Vida made it safe, non-stressful, and a wonderful experience for the children and us volunteers. read more

2016 my commitment was to Give More and Expect Less. In support of that I needed to find an organization that I could commit to and having a few friends that have been volunteering with Corazon de Vida this was an easy choice. This was my first trip down and it will not be my last as I have already signed up for my 2nd trip next month. The sign up process is very easy and within minutes you receive further information via email. I decided to be all in and take on the craft project for this trip and all direct communication with George was completely seamless. He was always prompt in his communications and made me feel completely comfortable. Pick ups are so easy and quick - 3 locations in total; Los Angeles, Irvine and San Diego. Literally each location is right off the freeway and in a free park and ride location. Quick stop in Irvine to pick up some breakfast and off to San Diego. Crossing the border was a snap - obviously this is all in part to the wonderful organization of Corazon. When we arrived at the orphanage the children are all waiting and anxious to spend time with everyone. Games, crafts, pictures, hugs and love was in abundance. On my bus there were about 20% of us that had never been on the trip before but everyone else was friendly and willing to share their experiences and you can tell they love these children as if they are their own. George picks volunteers to help with crafts, lunch service and clean up and everyone pitches in. The orphanage itself is clean and the children are well behaved and just grateful for your time and attention. I cannot imagine a better way to give back to people that truly need your help. I came home with love and gratitude in heart and all I want to do is get back there as soon as possible. Please if you are looking for a place to give - PLEASE give Corazon de Vida an opportunity you will not be disappointed. read more

Great organization. I went on my first trip to the orphanage August 2014,and it's safe to say it's not my last... I already signed up for the September trip :) In short: $100 for day trip to Tijuana $50 covers transportation, lunch (usually home -made Pizzas, fruits,water, juice, and various snacks) and craft projects with the children $50 donation to the orphanage (enough to feed one kid for one month after the visit) Coming from LA, I had to meet the bus at 5:30 am. Parking is free and is not a hassle Don't worry about breakfast because the bus will stop by a Mexican restaurant and a Starbucks after we pick up the Orange Country group of people. We arrive at the orphanage at about 10 am and it's all fun and games from there on out. The children get so excited to finally see visitors and are ready to play! (one advice is to make sure you wear shoes if you plan to play soccer or basketball with the kids). With all that these kids go through, to see their joyful/child-like spirits is a huge inspiration and I loved spending time with them. It's something you definitely need to experience because my words don't do it justice. You arrive back in Los Angeles around 6:30pm to 7pm. One concern I've heard from friends I tried to push to come on the next trip with me is the "Safety of the trip." CDV is so professionally run and have been doing this for YEARS! The trip ran so smoothly it almost didn't feel like we were crossing the border. Safety is NOT AN ISSUE, and definitely nothing you should be worried about! CDV takes care of everything from transportation to food to the games and activities you will play with the kid. All you have to do is show-up, bring some donations, and willing to participate and show these kids a good time :) Please do yourself a favor and sign-up for at least one trip. I can guarantee you will be hooked and will make a point to come back often! read more

We didn't know what to expect when we signed up for this trip and we were blown away by how incredible the day was. My 12 year old daughter and I were especially moved by how completely different the Mexican infrastructure is from ours... and within feet of each other. George was a fantastic leader - he made everything easy. But the best part by far was the time we spent with the kids at the orphanage - they were so happy to be with us, just playing on the playground, kicking around the soccer ball, painting our nails, making bracelets, eating lunch or dancing together - there was something for everyone. And the language barrier was practically non-existent because everyone knows how to communicate when you want to share and have fun. We can't wait to go on our next trip... and the next... and the next! Thanks, George and Corazon de Vida! read more

My first trip with Corazon de Vida Foundation was a wonderful experience. I definitely recommend going along on a trip, making a donation, or both. The children in the orphanedges were cheerful, curious, well behaved, and took full advantage of playing and interacting with friendly visitors. The bus trip into Tijuana was safe and well organized. I guarantee you will end your day feeling inspired. read more

Corazon de Vida is such an amazing organization that supports many orphanages in Baja California & over 800 children and when you on one of these trips you not only see how amazing these children they are, but what a wonderful organization this is. They are very transparent & effective with how they use the money the raise through their organization & have been helping these orphanages & doing these trips over 20 years. The actual trip is not only eye opening, but so professionally run, comfortable, fun & goes by so fast! Thank you to George & this amazing team for doing what they do! read more

I recently attended a weekend retreat with the San Diego chapter of Corazon de Vida Foundation, and visited two orphanages. My experience was very positive by providing perspective of another way of life, reminder of the importance of service, and sense of community with humanity while interacting with the children on the playground. Leadership is very enthusiastic and motivated to serve and advance the lives of so many of Baja's underprivileged youth. We have seen ideas implemented, like sustainable gardens, and am hopeful to hear of more concrete plans for the near future. Continued well wishes! read more

I have been involved with CDV for a couple years now and have been lucky enough to visit about half the homes they support. They do amazing work and put donations to work right away!! If you are looking today! Please vote for them to win a car from Toyota - www.carsforgood.com! read more

Just finished my first trip to an orphanage in Mexico. Awesome experience and amazing organization. I would recommend it to anyone interested in volunteering. I would also recommend getting a border pass to make the walk across easier. read more

The giving days foundation is A1 the information iris like no other, Ray Reynolds is the Godfather of credit for real he teaches from beginning to end about credit and he also answers your questions. That was one think that blew my mind to actually speak to him live and have him care about the client. Service is top notch THANK YOU RAY & Giving Da6 Foundation read more

This is amazing organization and I think it is a great idea that everyone should try to do. I am going to go on one of there day trips and take my daughter. Love you guys you are all angels. read more

This is a great organization. I highly recommend taking a trip with them. Your heart will be touched and you will never forget it. I want to bring my teenage children, now that they're studying Spanish. read more

Amazing experience! Life changing and I will do whatever I can do to help! I have never volunteered for an organization that is doing what they are doing truly coming from the heart like CDV. They are a truly deserving organization that is making a difference in children's lives. I'm spreading the word and hope to create some campaigns of my own to help them! read more

I am a twenty-seven year old LA native and I have been volunteering since the Girl Scout Days. The trip to Casa Hogar Sion has been the most rewarding and memorable volunteer experience for me thus far, because I was able to see first hand who the beneficiaries of the non-profit were, which oftentimes is a rarity in the non-profit sector. Even with just four years of Spanish under my belt, I truly connected with children who are outnumbered by a mere handful of guardians and clearly in need for affection--even if for one afternoon. If you're looking for a volunteer experience that will change you and truly tug at the heart strings, this is the trip for you. read more

My heart was overwhelmed with what I experienced at Los Angelitos Orphanage. Playing most of the afternoon with Julia was a treasured experience that I will never forget. She was so full of life!! It's been a long time since I've laughed that hard with a child; she was hilarious! Even though the day seem to just fly so quickly, I enjoyed every moment spent. The hardest part was seeing Julia sob as we were leaving. Although she couldn't express herself in speech, her hug and tears let me know just how much she would miss me...and that was heart wrenching! Looking forward to seeing her again this coming weekend. :-) read more

This organization offers a safe and friendly environment that travels to Tijuana, Mexico. They literally are fighting on the front lines to save abused and abandoned children. The trip leader and board member Jorge Perez is professional,kind motivational, and has inspired me to be a better person. This organization saves lives. Corazon de vida also not only helps these kids but they also give everyday people the chance to be exposed to real world issues that everyday people can be apart of and change. This organization is like no other and I am proud to be apart of the group of volunteers. Corazon de vida along with the trips they offer will change your life. I hope this review helps anyone with a heart to inflict positive change in the world. read more

We have participated in a few different types of charitable initiatives, and I'm always on the lookout for an impactful charitable effort that my young kids can get involved with. What I loved about Corazon de Vida is that there was a direct personal connection, and the kids came away learning that: -orphanages can be happy, not depressing places -just south of the border looks a lot different than California -not every child has parents, or a home or a family -going on vacation, playdates, getting toys, getting to play on a soccer league, going to movies is a privilege -the kids at the orphanage enjoy these visits and having visitors of all ages Corazon de Vida provided a nice bus (with bathroom and tv screens to play a movie), we left Santa Monica at 6:30 AM, loaded the bottom of the bus with donated goods gathered (TP, cleaning supplies, canned food, breakfast bars, diapers etc) made a quick stop for coffee midway through where the founder of the organization joined us on the bus to talk about what to expect, and the plan for the day. Drove through the border--and about another 20 minute drive to the Orphanage. Got there at around 10:30/11, delivered the goods and broke out tons of arts and craft projects for the kids to do together, the boys all ran outside and played soccer non-stop (our kids together with kids that lived at the orphanage) for three hours straight. They fed us a pizza lunch, we got a tour of the facility and then loaded back onto the bus at around 2:30 to head back, and returned to SM by about 6:30. It was a long day with a lot of driving, but we played movies on the bus, and the kids kept each other busy. The Hacienda orphanage we visited has about 55 kids living there, and the experience was eye opening in many ways. The kids got a lot out of it AND had a great day to boot. read more

I have had the fortune of volunteering with CDV for over 3 years now and have never been disappointed with the work they do or the people I meet. There are many ways to participate and support the kids of orphanages in Baja. The people who run this organization are super dedicated, and most are volunteers. The founder is an inspirational woman who grew up in a Baja orphanage herself. With some charities I wonder where my donations are going. However, with CDV I've had many opportunities to see where that money is going- and they put it to good use! I have gone to the homes many times and can see the positive changes that are being made and the need for continued support. This is a charity I feel good about supporting for the long haul! read more

Joining Corazon de Vida foundation and participating in the monthly trips to the orphanages has truly given a new meaning to a Saturday well spent. This organization is doing the most incredible work... its supporting 15 out of the 50 orphanages in Baja, each housing between 20 to 50 children! Having the opportunity to go and spend the day with the kids, play games with them, teach them to dance, serve them lunch, practice Spanish, has been the most rewarding opportunity! I highly recommend going just once... I promise you will have no regrets and only make the most time-worthy memories yet!!! These kids don't really care about toys, clothes, or any material object... they just crave your attention and someone to hold them, to hug them... make a difference in a child's life that's within your neighborhood! read more

Corazon de Vida is a WONDERFUL organization. My experience with them was amazing and I enjoyed every moment of it.

Thank You Corazon de Vida!!! for giving me the great opportunity to visit Casa Hogar Sion Orphanage in Tijuana, Mexico. Before signing up to the trip, I was skeptical about its safety in traveling there, however I am glad I made the choice to go. CDV made it a safe and wonderful experience. We were picked by a comfortable CDV bus and then traveled to the orphanage. We first got a tour of the orphanage by the founder Carmen and our CDV leader. They answered all of our questions and concerns, which was very informational. Once the kids arrived, they were really happy we were there. We played games and ate pizza with them. It was such an amazing experience seeing their joyful faces as we spent quality time together. When we got on the bus to leave, two young girls got on the bus and thanked us for having visited their home. I believe that all the volunteers truly had such a great experience!!! read more